Zoo In India

Aizawl Zoo

Aizwal zoo is a mini zoo located in the Bethlehem Vengthlang and houses some of the rarest species of mammals, birds and other endangered species. The common animals of the region are also seen in abundance. The Sun bear, the most endangered species identified in India  is a specific feature of Aizwal zoo, which is centre of attraction for persons of all age groups.

Timings & Tariff

The zoo is open on all days of the week except on Friday when it is a weekly holiday. The zoo is open for visitors from 7 AM till 4.30 pm during summer season and 8 am in the morning till 5 in the evening during winter season.

The entry fee is fixed at Rs 10 per person and tourists intending to carry along a camera have to pay additional charge of Rs 20/-.

Visitor Information

Since the zoo is located on hilly terrains, the visitors are advised to travel in groups. Also the zoo closes by 4.30 officially, however, the security personnel allow extra time for visitors to exit the zoo. But staying in zoo premises beyond official hours is not advisable. The visitors are also advised not to litter around the zoo. Lack of signages and walk-ways may be a problem which may lead to losing the path, hence travelling in groups is always advisable.

The infrastructure is very poor and hence visitors may carry their own drinking water and food inside. The enclosures at some places are open which is vulnerable for intruders. Even the rescue and rehabilitation centre has broken cement flooring and hence this area be best avoided.

Best Time to Visit

November to March is the best time to visit this zoo when the summer season sets in. The snowy North east regions give a pleasant weather during this time which enables the animals to move around freely.

Map of Zoo

Wildlife

The Aizwal zoo is interesting for nature lovers and persons having special interest in wild animals such as Sun bear, yak and others. The zoo authorities have also been successful in captive breeding of common animals found in this region.

Capped langur or Ngau is one rare species that is found preserved in this zoo. The specific variety of Clouded leopard with great length of upper tusks that resembles the extinct sabre toothed tigers is found here.

Binturong or the scientific name Arctictis binturong lazes happily on the tree branch. Resembling a long tailed black cat, this binturong is a prehensile- tailed mammal finding solace in Aizwal zoo.

The hoolock gibbon, Indian sambhar (a species of tiger). Baby langurs, porcupine, bay owls and Himalayan black bears are other animals and birds found in this zoo.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is the Shillong airport which is well connected with Imphal and Kolkata airports. The Government run Indian Airlines has numerous flights from Shillong to major cities including Imphal, Kolkata and Guwahati. Travellers intending to visit the zoo by train have to alight at Silchar in Assam by taking the Barak Valley express or the Tripura Passenger or Cachar Express and then the road transport. The NH 54 is connected to Aizwal which connects Silchar. Numerous government and private buses are available throughout the day for travel.