Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden—popularly known as Guwahati Zoo—is the largest zoo in Northeast India and one of Guwahati’s foremost green spaces and wildlife centers. Established in 1958 within the scenic Hengrabari Reserved Forest, the zoo spans a remarkable 432 acres (175 hectares), with an additional sprawling botanical garden covering over 82 hectares.​

Key Features and Biodiversity

• Wildlife:
  The zoo is home to more than 1,100 animals, birds, and reptiles representing over 115 species from India and around the globe. Star attractions include the iconic one-horned Indian rhinoceros, Royal Bengal tiger, clouded leopard, golden langur, Asian elephant, Himalayan black bear, brow-antlered deer, slow loris, Hoolock gibbon, and binturong. Exotic animals such as giraffe, zebra, kangaroo, ostrich, chimpanzee, and jaguar are part of the collection.​​

• Birds & Reptiles:
  Visitors can see pelicans, peafowls, golden pheasant, hornbill, monitor lizard, Burmese rock python, and many more.​

• Botanical Garden:
  The zoo’s adjoining botanical garden showcases regional and exotic plants, lush greenery, massive old trees, and a unique orchid house with over 40 varieties of stunning orchids. The botanical section also preserves rare plants and fosters educational conservation efforts.​

Facilities and Experience

• Natural Setting:
  Spread across gentle hills, serene gardens, and water bodies, the zoo provides a “Green Lung” to Guwahati, making it a peaceful retreat from urban bustle.​

• Visitor Services:
  The zoo offers golf cart rides, walking paths, informative boards near animal enclosures, a dedicated children’s park, restaurants, and fast food counters for convenience.​

• Museum & Conservation Initiatives:
  The zoo has a small museum, regular awareness programs, and runs successful animal adoption and captive breeding schemes for endangered species.​

History and Conservation

• Origins:
  The Assam State Zoo began with just 42 animals on display during a Congress session in 1957. Public interest led to the establishment of the zoo, which opened to the public in 1958.

• Growth:
  Over the years, the zoo expanded to its current size, adding new species and focusing on regional animal conservation as well as international animal exchanges for rare and exotic species.​

• Education & Outreach:
  The site is a nodal center for ex-situ conservation, wildlife education, and ecological outreach in Northeast India.​

Visiting Information

• Location:
  Located on Zoo Road, Japorigog, central Guwahati. Easily accessible by cab, bus, or auto from anywhere in the city.​

• Timing:
  Open most days. Check online for latest timings and tariffs.​

• Best Time to Visit:
  Year-round, though October to March offers cooler and comfortable weather for exploring the zoo.

Why Visit?

• Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden is an oasis of nature, wildlife, education, and relaxation—a must-visit for families, children, students, nature enthusiasts, and anyone keen to explore Assam’s ecological wonders and animal heritage.