Bihar's Pride Patna Zoo
Published on July 17, 2026
As one of the most beloved and highly visited tourist destinations in Bihar, the local zoo in the heart of the capital city has recently undergone significant administrative and operational updates. Whether you are planning a family outing, a school excursion, or a photography trip, understanding the latest ticketing rules and park highlights will ensure a seamless experience.
THE HISTORIC 2026 NAME CHANGE
For decades, locals and tourists alike affectionately referred to the park as "Patna Zoo," even though its official name was the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park. In April 2026, the Bihar Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, officially approved the removal of the former name. The park has now been formally and legally renamed to simply "Patna Zoo," and its managing body has been reconstituted as the Patna Zoo Management and Development Society.
WILDLIFE AND ATTRACTIONS: INDIA'S 4TH LARGEST ZOO
Established after the Raj Bhavan donated 34 acres of land in 1969, and officially opened to the public in 1973, Patna Zoo has expanded massively to become the fourth-largest zoo in India. Spread across sprawling green acres, it houses over 800 animals representing approximately 110 different species.
Visitors can observe apex predators like Bengal tigers, white tigers, Asiatic lions, and leopards. The zoo is globally recognized for its highly successful one-horned rhinoceros breeding program. Beyond the mammal enclosures, the park features a dedicated Snake House, expansive bird aviaries, a boating lake, and a botanical garden containing over 300 species of trees and rare shrubs.
2026 TICKET PRICES AND TIMINGS
Patna Zoo remains one of the most affordable wildlife parks in Eastern India. The Bihar government has fixed the 2026 entry fees to keep the park accessible for all:
Adult Entry: ₹50
Child Entry (Above 3 Years): ₹20
Children Below 3 Years: Free Entry
School Groups: ₹10 per student
College Groups: ₹30 per student
Please note that special attractions inside the zoo require separate tickets. The Aquarium (Machali Ghar) costs ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children, while the Toy Train and Boating facilities also carry nominal separate charges.
The zoo is strictly closed to visitors every Monday for maintenance. During the summer months, the gates open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and in winter, timings shift slightly from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is recommended to allocate at least 3 to 5 hours to comfortably explore all the major enclosures.
HOW TO BOOK TICKETS ONLINE
To avoid long waiting hours at the physical ticket counters—especially on weekends and public holidays—visitors are strongly encouraged to use the official Patna Zoo online booking portal.
Select your preferred date of visit on the portal.
Choose your ticket category (Adult, Child, etc.) and enter the exact number of visitors.
Provide basic details, including a valid mobile number and email ID for OTP verification.
Complete the secure transaction using UPI, Net Banking, or a Debit/Credit Card.
Your e-ticket will be instantly generated and sent to your email, allowing you to walk straight to the entry gates.
By planning ahead and booking online, you can maximize your time enjoying the rich biodiversity and natural tranquility that Patna Zoo has to offer.
THE HISTORIC 2026 NAME CHANGE
For decades, locals and tourists alike affectionately referred to the park as "Patna Zoo," even though its official name was the Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park. In April 2026, the Bihar Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary, officially approved the removal of the former name. The park has now been formally and legally renamed to simply "Patna Zoo," and its managing body has been reconstituted as the Patna Zoo Management and Development Society.
WILDLIFE AND ATTRACTIONS: INDIA'S 4TH LARGEST ZOO
Established after the Raj Bhavan donated 34 acres of land in 1969, and officially opened to the public in 1973, Patna Zoo has expanded massively to become the fourth-largest zoo in India. Spread across sprawling green acres, it houses over 800 animals representing approximately 110 different species.
Visitors can observe apex predators like Bengal tigers, white tigers, Asiatic lions, and leopards. The zoo is globally recognized for its highly successful one-horned rhinoceros breeding program. Beyond the mammal enclosures, the park features a dedicated Snake House, expansive bird aviaries, a boating lake, and a botanical garden containing over 300 species of trees and rare shrubs.
2026 TICKET PRICES AND TIMINGS
Patna Zoo remains one of the most affordable wildlife parks in Eastern India. The Bihar government has fixed the 2026 entry fees to keep the park accessible for all:
Adult Entry: ₹50
Child Entry (Above 3 Years): ₹20
Children Below 3 Years: Free Entry
School Groups: ₹10 per student
College Groups: ₹30 per student
Please note that special attractions inside the zoo require separate tickets. The Aquarium (Machali Ghar) costs ₹20 for adults and ₹10 for children, while the Toy Train and Boating facilities also carry nominal separate charges.
The zoo is strictly closed to visitors every Monday for maintenance. During the summer months, the gates open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and in winter, timings shift slightly from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is recommended to allocate at least 3 to 5 hours to comfortably explore all the major enclosures.
HOW TO BOOK TICKETS ONLINE
To avoid long waiting hours at the physical ticket counters—especially on weekends and public holidays—visitors are strongly encouraged to use the official Patna Zoo online booking portal.
Select your preferred date of visit on the portal.
Choose your ticket category (Adult, Child, etc.) and enter the exact number of visitors.
Provide basic details, including a valid mobile number and email ID for OTP verification.
Complete the secure transaction using UPI, Net Banking, or a Debit/Credit Card.
Your e-ticket will be instantly generated and sent to your email, allowing you to walk straight to the entry gates.
By planning ahead and booking online, you can maximize your time enjoying the rich biodiversity and natural tranquility that Patna Zoo has to offer.