In a major move to enhance visitor experience and promote tourism, the Central Zoo located in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, will now remain open until 8 PM starting from the Nepali New Year 2082 (Baisakh 1). The decision was announced during a special event organized by the zoo management today. Minister for Forests and Environment, Mr. Ain Bahadur Shahi Thakuri, shared that the decision to extend the zoo’s operating hours was made based on public demand.
He stated, “A formal decision has been made through the Board of the National Trust for Nature Conservation, and necessary preparations are already underway to implement the extended hours.”Currently, the Central Zoo of Jawalakhel operates from 10 AM to 5 PM. With the new schedule, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the zoo’s attractions in the evening as well, which is expected to boost tourism, especially among working individuals and families.
During the same program, Minister Shahi also inaugurated a new rest pavilion (falcha) and a breastfeeding room inside the zoo premises. He emphasized the importance of integrating nature, wildlife, and culture within the zoo environment. “Though this zoo is small in area, efforts are ongoing to expand it by establishing an open zoo in Suryabinayak as per existing provisions,” he added. Mayor of Lalitpur Metropolitan City, Mr. Chiri Babu Maharjan, also addressed the event, calling the Central Zoo a “jewel of Lalitpur” and urging all stakeholders to collaborate in its further promotion. He highlighted that since assuming office, he has been committed to restoring and conserving encroached, lost, or buried cultural heritage sites within the city.
Director General of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, Dr. Ram Chandra Kandel, informed attendees that the zoo is preparing to welcome additional rare wildlife species from both within Nepal and abroad in Jawalakhel. He added that the department is actively coordinating for this purpose. Dr. Naresh Subedi, Member Secretary of the National Trust for Nature Conservation, noted that the newly constructed temple of the local community deity and the falcha aim to connect culture with conservation. He also revealed ongoing efforts to bring popular animals such as lions and zebras to the zoo, in response to public interest.
Other speakers at the event included Mr. Satya Narayan Sah, Chief of the Central Zoo; Mr. Santosh Khadka, Chairperson of Lalitpur Metropolitan City-4; and Mr. Rajendra Maharjan, Chairperson of the local Guthi. All emphasized that the construction of the temple and falcha would deepen community engagement and foster a greater sense of ownership among locals for the zoo’s preservation and development. This expansion of operational hours and infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance the overall visitor experience at the Central Zoo, making it a more inclusive, culturally rich, and family-friendly destination.
