dehradun zoo ticket price
Introduction
If you are planning a family outing in Uttarakhand’s capital, Dehradun Zoo is one of the easiest and most affordable day trips you can add to your list. Located on the Mussoorie road in Malsi, this compact zoological park is popular with school groups, local families and tourists who want a short, relaxed stop on the way to or from Mussoorie. Before you go, the most common question is simple: what is the Dehradun zoo ticket price?
The short answer is that the adult entry ticket is reported to be around ₹100 per person, after an increase from ₹50 in November 2024. However, many older websites still show outdated rates of ₹20 or ₹30, which can confuse visitors and cause budget surprises at the counter.
In this guide, we explain the current ticket price, how the fee has changed over the years, what extra tickets visitors have reported, the visiting hours, how to reach the zoo, the best time to visit, and practical tips to make your trip smooth. Wherever a detail could not be confirmed from a current official source, we say so clearly, so you can verify it before you leave home.
Table of Contents
Dehradun Zoo Ticket Price at a Glance
The table below summarises the ticket details visitors ask about most often. Please treat it as a planning guide and confirm the final amounts at the ticket counter, because zoo fees can be revised by the management without much notice.
| Ticket type | Price | What you should know |
|---|---|---|
| Adult entry | ₹100 per person | Reported increase from ₹50 in November 2024. A recent visitor review also mentions ₹100 per person. |
| Child entry | Confirm at counter | Older listings showed ₹10 for children, but a current child rate could not be verified. |
| Fish aquarium (add-on) | About ₹50 in older reviews | Some visitors reported a separate aquarium ticket. Confirm the current amount. |
| Cactus garden (add-on) | Small separate ticket reported | Exact current price not confirmed. |
| Older combined total | About ₹90 | Entry, cactus garden and aquarium together on older visits, when adult entry was ₹30. |
How Reliable Is This Price Information?
Price information for small state-run zoos is often scattered across travel blogs, review sites and old listings. The ₹100 adult figure comes from a news report on the November 2024 revision and is supported by a recent visitor review. The lower figures of ₹20 and ₹30 come from older listings and reviews and no longer reflect what most visitors pay. The child rate and add-on prices are the least certain parts of the picture, so we have marked them as items to confirm rather than guessing.
Dehradun Zoo Ticket Price History
Understanding how the fee has changed helps explain why you see different numbers online. The zoo has always been known as a low-cost attraction, but the entry fee has risen as the zoo added new animals and improved facilities.
| Period | Adult entry | Child entry | Where the figure comes from |
|---|---|---|---|
| Around 2020 | ₹20 | ₹10 | Travel website listing |
| Later visitor reviews | ₹30 | ₹10 | Visitor reviews on place pages |
| Until November 2024 | ₹50 | Not confirmed | News report on the revision |
| From November 2024 | ₹100 | Not confirmed | News report and a recent visitor review |
Why Did the Ticket Price Go Up?
The entry fee doubled from ₹50 to ₹100 in November 2024. Zoo administrations commonly revise fees to cover feeding, veterinary care, enclosure maintenance and staff costs, and doubling the fee gave the zoo a stronger income base at a time when it was investing in new attractions.
The Tiger Effect on Visitor Numbers
The same month the fee increased, two tigers were brought to the zoo from Jim Corbett National Park. According to a news report, the higher ticket price had hardly any impact on visitor numbers, and the zoo’s revenue rose substantially as people came to see the big cats. In other words, visitors were willing to pay the higher price because the zoo now offered something special to see.
What Does the Dehradun Zoo Ticket Include?
The entry ticket gives you access to the main zoo premises, where the walking paths, animal enclosures and green spaces are located. Some attractions inside the complex have been reported to need separate tickets, so it helps to know what to expect.
Main Zoo Entry
The main ticket covers the walk through the zoo and the animal enclosures. The zoo is small, and visitors on review sites say it can be covered in roughly one to two hours, depending on how long you spend with the animals and in the play areas.
Fish Aquarium
Older visitor reviews mention a separate ticket of about ₹50 for the fish aquarium. If you are visiting with children who love fish and colourful aquatic life, the add-on can be a good use of a small amount. Ask at the counter whether it is still sold separately and what it costs now.
Cactus Garden
The cactus garden has also been mentioned as a separate small ticket in older reviews. It is a quiet, short stop that suits plant lovers and photographers, but it is not essential if you are short on time.
Parking, Camera and Other Charges
We could not find a current official list for parking or camera fees at the zoo. Charges like these differ from place to place and change over time, so keep a little extra cash in your pocket and ask at the gate before you enter.
Dehradun Zoo Timings
A popular travel listing gives the visiting hours as 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and says the zoo can be explored in about two hours. Timings in zoos often change with the season and may be shorter in winter, when it gets dark earlier. Some zoos also remain closed one day a week, so it is wise to confirm the opening hours and the weekly off day before travelling, especially if you are coming from outside Dehradun.
Best Time of Day to Visit
Arrive close to opening time if you can. Animals are generally more active in the cooler morning hours, crowds are thinner, and photographs are easier to take. Late afternoon is also pleasant in summer, but check the closing time so you do not rush through the last enclosures.
About Dehradun Zoo
Dehradun Zoo, also called Dehradun Zoological Park, is managed by the Dehradun Zoo Management Society under the Uttarakhand Forest Department. Official records describe its history in two stages: it began in 1976 as the Malsi Deer Park, and was developed into the Dehradun Mini Zoo in 2012. Locals still often call it Malsi Deer Park, and some visitors remember it as their favourite childhood outing.
Location and Address
The zoo is at the Mussoorie Diversion, Mussoorie Road, Malsi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248009. Its position on the road leading towards Mussoorie makes it convenient to combine with a hill-station trip.
The Setting
Visitors consistently describe the zoo as green, clean and well maintained, with a peaceful atmosphere and good walking paths. Reviewers also mention play areas and a swing area for children, which is why many families treat it as a relaxed picnic-style outing rather than a rushed sightseeing stop.
Animals and Attractions You Can See
The zoo is not as large as the big city zoos of India, but it offers a good variety for its size. Reviews mention the following highlights.
Tigers and Leopards
The arrival of two tigers from Jim Corbett National Park made the zoo far more popular, and leopards are also mentioned by visitors. For many children, these big cats are the main reason to visit.
Deer
Because the zoo grew from a deer park, deer remain one of its signature attractions. Reviewers say a good number of deer can usually be seen, and children enjoy the deer area.
Snakes, Crocodiles and Reptiles
The snake house is a favourite for some visitors, and crocodiles and other reptiles add variety for those curious about wildlife that is rarely seen up close.
Birds and Fish
A range of birds can be seen across the enclosures, and the fish aquarium adds an aquatic element to the visit.
Play Areas and Walking Paths
The shaded walking paths and children’s play area make the zoo comfortable for young families and older visitors who prefer an easy stroll.
How to Reach Dehradun Zoo
The zoo is on the Dehradun–Mussoorie route, so reaching it is simple whether you are staying in the city or travelling through.
By Road
Taxis, autos and private vehicles can reach the zoo from most parts of Dehradun. If you are driving to Mussoorie, the zoo lies on the way and can be a convenient break. Share the exact name, Dehradun Zoo or Malsi Deer Park, with your driver to avoid confusion.
By Train
Dehradun Railway Station is the main railhead and is connected to major Indian cities. From the station, you can take a taxi or a local ride to the zoo.
By Air
Dehradun Airport, at Jolly Grant, is the nearest airport and is connected to several major cities. From the airport, taxis and cabs are available for the onward journey to the zoo.
Best Time to Visit Dehradun Zoo
Dehradun has a pleasant climate for much of the year, but some seasons are better for a zoo visit than others.
Winter (November to February)
Mornings can be cool and comfortable, and walking through the zoo is easy. Days are shorter, so plan to arrive early and check the closing time.
Spring (March to April)
This is one of the most pleasant periods, with moderate weather and fresh greenery across the zoo grounds.
Summer (May to June)
Days can be hot, so visit early in the morning, carry water and wear light clothes and a cap.
Monsoon (July to September)
The zoo looks lush and green, but rain can interrupt your walk. Carry an umbrella or raincoat and expect slippery paths.
Tips to Save Money and Enjoy the Visit
Because the ticket price is modest, the zoo is easy on the budget, but a few simple habits can make the visit smoother.
Carry Some Cash
Small attractions do not always have reliable digital payment options. Keep enough cash for entry, add-on tickets and snacks, and confirm whether digital payment is accepted.
Decide on Add-Ons Before You Go
If time and budget are limited, choose between the aquarium and the cactus garden depending on your family’s interests rather than buying every ticket.
Bring Water and Light Snacks
Check the zoo’s rules on outside food, but carrying a water bottle is almost always a good idea, especially in summer.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
The paths are good for walking, but you will be on your feet for an hour or two, so comfortable shoes make a real difference.
Respect the Animals and the Rules
Do not feed the animals, throw litter or make loud noises near enclosures. Following the rules keeps the animals safe and the zoo clean for everyone.
Nearby Places to Visit
Since the zoo takes only a short time to explore, you can pair it with other attractions around Dehradun.
Sahastradhara
A popular sulphur spring and waterfall destination near Dehradun, suited to families and nature lovers.
Robber’s Cave (Guchhupani)
A natural cave formation with a stream running through it, enjoyed by adventurous visitors.
Mindrolling Monastery
A peaceful Buddhist monastery known for its calm atmosphere and architecture.
Mussoorie
The famous hill station lies further up the same road, making the zoo a natural stop before or after a hill trip.
Is Dehradun Zoo Worth Visiting?
For families with children, the answer is usually yes. At ₹100 per adult, the zoo is inexpensive compared with most attractions, and the presence of tigers, leopards, deer, reptiles and birds gives a good variety for a short outing. The clean surroundings and walking paths add to the appeal. If you expect a very large, modern zoo, you may find it small, and some visitors note limited animal variety. But as a relaxed, budget-friendly outing in the foothills, it is a good choice, especially with young children.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dehradun zoo ticket price?
The adult entry ticket is reported to be ₹100 per person, after an increase from ₹50 in November 2024. Confirm the final amount at the counter.
Is there a separate ticket for the aquarium?
Older visitor reviews mention a separate ticket of about ₹50 for the fish aquarium. Please check whether this is still the case.
What is the ticket price for children?
Older listings showed ₹10 for children, but a current child rate could not be verified. Ask at the ticket counter.
What are the Dehradun zoo timings?
A travel listing gives 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Hours and the weekly closed day can change, so confirm before you go.
How much time do I need to see the zoo?
Most visitors report that one to two hours is enough.
Where is Dehradun Zoo located?
It is at the Mussoorie Diversion, Mussoorie Road, Malsi, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248009.
Does the zoo have tigers?
Yes. Two tigers were brought from Jim Corbett National Park in November 2024, and the zoo also has leopards, deer, reptiles and birds.
Is Dehradun Zoo good for kids?
Yes. Visitors describe it as suitable for children, with deer, a play area, a swing area and easy walking paths.
Conclusion
The Dehradun zoo ticket price is low enough to suit almost any budget, with adult entry reported at ₹100 per person since November 2024. Older figures of ₹20, ₹30 and ₹50 belong to earlier periods, and add-on tickets such as the aquarium and cactus garden may cost extra. Because child rates, add-on prices and timings can change, the best approach is to carry a little extra cash and confirm the details at the counter. With tigers, deer, reptiles, birds and green walking paths, the zoo makes a pleasant, affordable half-day outing for families, school groups and anyone travelling along the Mussoorie road.
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