The Nehru Zoological Park contains wildlife and nature spread out over 380 acres (104 hectares) of parkland. It is one of the largest animal parks in the country, acting as a museum as well as a zoo. Come to see the Lion Safari Park, elephant rides and more than 160 species of animals. The site lies next to a picturesque lake and is an ideal retreat from Hyderabad’s busy urban life.
Go on safari in a secure zoo van to spot the lions and tigers in their natural environments. Watch Asiatic lions roam around their 30-acre (12-hectare) habitat. The tiger area is even larger and features sloths, bison and other animals. Check out the panthers, jaguars and stunning white tigers.
Pay a visit to the nocturnal house during the day. It reverses the sleep patterns of the animals by keeping the room dark, so that they’re awake while visitors are at the park.
Admire baboons and chimpanzees in the primate exhibits and see thousands of colourful fish at the aquarium. Look at fearsome, cold-blooded animals, including snakes and crocodiles, from a safe distance in the reptile enclosures.
If you don’t want to walk, take a train around the zoo to locate your favourite animals. It’s also possible to drive your car or rent a battery-operated vehicle or bicycle to help you cover more ground. It is advisable to bring your own food for lunch.
The zoo is closed on Mondays. The rest of the week, it’s open from morning until late afternoon year-round. There is a small entrance fee and additional charges for rides, attractions and toilets throughout the park.
Nehru Zoological Park is located next to the Mir Alam Tank Lake in the southwest region of Hyderabad. There is a bus stop near the entrance. Visiting early in the morning and during winter will give the best opportunities to catch the animals when they are most active.
