A legacy of preservation
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park occupies a pristine swath of land amidst the rocky embrace of the mountains. Named in honour of Padmaja Naidu, the daughter of Sarojini Naidu who was affectionately known as the "Nightingale of India," this sanctuary is a testament to the legacy of conservation that runs deep in the region's veins.
Established in 1958, the zoo has evolved into the crown jewel of Darjeeling's conservation efforts, garnering international acclaim for its pioneering breeding programmes aimed at safeguarding endangered species native to the Eastern Himalayas. One of the best zoos in India, it has also received the international 'Earth's Heroes' Award in 2014 out of 300 zoos worldwide.
An oasis of rare species
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is the only specialised Zoo in the country and is internationally recognised for its conservation breeding programmes of Red Panda, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf, Siberian Tiger and other highly endangered animal species of Eastern Himalaya. It boasts an unparalleled collection of rare and exotic species, exhibiting the region's rich biodiversity. Among its celebrated residents are the elusive snow leopard, the majestic Himalayan wolf, clouded leopard, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan deer and the charming red panda, along with other animals like Sambar Deer, Blue Sheep, Himalayan Tahr, Barking Deer, Goral and Musk Deer whose endearing presence captivates visitors from far and wide.
The zoo also has an Aviary, a huge circular bird's cage with different kind of colourful birds like lady Amherst pheasant, Rose Ring Parakeets, Hill Mynas, Ring Necked Pheasants, Blue Gold Macaw and many others. All of them add a splash of colour to the park's green landscape.
