Lucknow Zoo has an unusual mix of wildlife park, old-city institution and family recreation ground. One turn may bring you to an animal enclosure, another to the historic Baradari, and a little farther on children are waiting for the toy train. That variety is the reason many families spend far longer here than they first planned.
Officially known as Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden, the zoo was established in 1921 and sits in the Hazratganj area, making it easy to combine with a wider Lucknow itinerary. Its timings change by season, and the entry tariff was revised from 1 October 2025, so visitors should use the current rates rather than older figures still circulating online.
Quick About Lucknow Zoo
| Particular | Details |
| Official name | Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden |
| Popular name | Lucknow Zoo |
| Established | 1921 |
| Address | Hazratganj Road, opposite Civil Hospital, Lucknow 226001 |
| Weekly closure | Monday and Holi for visitors |
| Adult ticket | Rs. 100 |
| Child ticket | Rs. 50 for ages 5 to 12 |
| Last entry | 30 minutes before closing |
| Best time | November to February; morning |
| Official website | lucknowzoo.com |
Opening and Closing Timing
| Particular | Days | Opening | Closing / Details |
| February to April | Tuesday to Sunday | 8:30 AM | 5:30 PM |
| May to July | Tuesday to Sunday | 8:00 AM | 6:00 PM |
| August to October | Tuesday to Sunday | 8:30 AM | 5:30 PM |
| November to January | Tuesday to Sunday | 8:30 AM | 5:00 PM |
| Weekly closure | Monday | Closed | Closed |
The last entry is allowed 30 minutes before the zoo closes. The zoo also remains closed to visitors on the day of Holi. Because sunset and heat vary strongly across the year in Lucknow, the seasonal schedule is worth checking before you leave home.
Ticket Price
| Ticket / Facility | Category | Price |
| Normal ticket | Adult / visitor above 12 years | Rs. 100 |
| Normal ticket | Child, 5 to 12 years | Rs. 50 |
| Normal ticket | Teacher | Rs. 100 |
| Optional | Video camera | Rs. 100 |
The normal ticket includes entry to the zoo, aquarium, nocturnal house and interpretation centre. The official booking system gives a 10% online-booking discount. Eligible student groups of more than 50 can receive an additional group discount under the published rules.
Can Lucknow Zoo Tickets Be Booked Online?
Yes. Lucknow Zoo operates an official online booking page. The zoo specifically advises visitors to book through the authorised website. E-ticket holders still need to follow the entry procedure at the ticket counter, where the zoo currently uses coloured wristbands for admission control.
The normal ticket and any package ticket should be compared before payment. A package may include the toy train, while the normal ticket already covers the aquarium, nocturnal house and interpretation centre.
What to See at Lucknow Zoo
The zoo combines animal exhibits with several family attractions. The fish house, nocturnal house and nature interpretation centre add indoor or educational stops to the outdoor enclosures, which is helpful on hot days.
The toy train is one of the zoo’s best-loved features and has been part of the Lucknow Zoo experience in different forms since the late 1960s. Battery vehicles, paddle boating and a children’s park are additional options depending on availability.
The historical Baradari gives the zoo a distinct Lucknow character. Visitors interested in architecture and local history should not rush past it while focusing only on the animals.
How to Reach Lucknow Zoo
From Hazratganj: The zoo is on Hazratganj Road opposite the Civil Hospital and is easy to reach from central Hazratganj by auto, e-rickshaw, taxi or app cab.
From Charbagh Railway Station: Lucknow Charbagh is connected to Hazratganj by city transport, metro connections in the broader corridor, taxis and autos. A cab is convenient for families.
From the Airport: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport is linked to central Lucknow by metro and road. From the nearest convenient central stop, continue towards Hazratganj by local transport.
By City Bus / Metro: Use the Hazratganj side of the city as the main reference point. From there the zoo is a short local ride.
Best Time to Visit
November to February is the easiest season for a long zoo visit. The cooler weather suits children and senior citizens, and the zoo’s winter closing time still allows a comfortable half-day if you arrive in the morning.
May to July has the longest official hours but also the harshest heat. If visiting in summer, enter early, use shaded rests and consider the indoor exhibits during the hottest part of the day.
Visitor Facilities
Lucknow Zoo lists a toy train, battery vehicle, paddle boating, children’s park, canteen and food court, souvenir shop, aquarium and interpretation centre among its visitor facilities. Wheelchair and child-pram support are also listed.
Because some attractions are optional or separately packaged, ask what is included before purchasing add-ons. The zoo is large enough that senior citizens may appreciate a battery vehicle if available.
Important Rules Visitors Should Know
Visitors should keep the coloured wristband or ticket proof available until the visit is over. Do not feed or tease animals, cross safety barriers or litter in the lawns.
Online tickets are tied to the booking terms and discounts. Check the selected ticket type carefully before payment because cancellation and modification options may be limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Lucknow Zoo open on Monday?
No. Monday is the regular weekly closure day. The zoo also remains closed to visitors on Holi.
Q. What is included in the normal zoo ticket?
The official normal ticket includes zoo entry, aquarium, nocturnal house and interpretation centre.
Q. Is online booking cheaper?
The official website currently lists a 10% discount for online booking.
Q. What is the last entry time?
Last entry is allowed 30 minutes before the seasonal closing time.
Q. Does Lucknow Zoo have a toy train?
Yes. The toy train is one of the zoo’s major family attractions and may be included in a package ticket rather than the normal ticket.
Q. How much time is enough for Lucknow Zoo?
Keep at least 3 to 4 hours. Families using the train, boating or children’s park can easily spend longer.
