Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park - A Wildlife Sanctuary to visit

Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park is a destination for those who enjoy wildlife. The purpose of the Park is to protect wildlife while allowing it to remain in its natural environment. Gangtok is three kilometers away from Himalayan Zoological Park, which is situated in Bulbuley. The Zoological Park also offers a breathtaking view of Mt. Khangchendzonga from its elevation of 1,780 meters. This Park covers 205 hectares in the rugged landscape. Numerous Himalayan wildlife species can be found in the Park. Himalayan Red Panda, Snow Leopard Cat, Himalayan Monal Pheasant, Himalayan Palm Civet, Himalayan Black Bear, and Crimson-Horned Pheasant are a few of them. The first zoological Park in Sikkim is called the Himalayan Zoological Park. In the Park, animals are housed in environments that closely resemble those of a modern zoo. Mid-February to mid-May and mid-September to mid-December are the ideal times to explore the region. The Department of Forests, Environment & Wildlife Management, Government of Sikkim, is in charge of maintaining the Park.

Attraction

Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park Covering an entire hillside, this lushly forested park is one of India’s best-maintained zoos. The main draw is the red pandas, who are Sikkim’s national animal and resemble cuddly toy foxes. Snow leopards and Himalayan bears traverse enormous cages, so you’ll need to be patient to observe them. If traveling by car, give yourself about two hours to see everything; the three parking lots have hikes totaling more than 2 km. Walk an additional 1.6 kilometers one way without wheels from/to the ticket booth, which is located across from Ganesh Tok.

History

Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park Wildlife Sanctuary in India The establishment was a significant step toward preserving wildlife in northeastern India. With the dual goals of conservation and tourism, the park was created to recognize the need to protect the distinctive and varied Himalayan biodiversity. It has developed into a haven for indigenous Himalayan range animals, including the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and red panda. The park’s natural surroundings, which offer the animals semi-natural habitats, have contributed to its growing popularity as a tourist destination. The Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park allows visitors to view wildlife in open enclosures that closely resemble its natural habitat, unlike regular zoos where animals are kept in cages. This approach not only enhances the quality of life for the animals but also offers tourists an immersive and ethical wildlife experience.

Inside/Outside Views

Situated across Ganesh Tok and close to Tashi View Point, the park is roughly 6-8 km away from Gangtok. Taxis can get there with ease, and the adventure is enhanced by the trip over the hilly landscape. Nature lovers will adore the surrounding area’s abundance of natural features, which include peaceful lakes, picturesque valleys, and waterfalls.

There is a 2.5-kilometer road through the park that guests can drive or walk. Because they may roam around freely in their open cages, the animals provide guests with a more authentic viewing experience. The Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, clouded leopards, Tibetan wolves, endangered red pandas, and numerous pheasant and bird species are among the main draws. A watchtower with panoramic views, a café, gift stores, drinking water stations, and restrooms are among the park’s amenities. The paths in the park are bordered by thick trees, which adds to the area’s natural charm.

How to Reach

By Air: The Bagdogra International Airport, about 123 km away in West Bengal, is the nearest airport to Gangtok. The airport is well connected to the rest of the country and receives regular flights. Tourists can hire private taxis at the airport to reach Gangtok in 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, they can choose to take the daily helicopter service, which is available from the airport til Gangtok. The helicopter ride is about 20-30 minutes. This service might not be available all the time because of the varying weather conditions of the area.

By Rail: The New Jalpaiguri Railway Junction, Siliguri in West Bengal, about 118 km away, is the nearest rail junction to Gangtok. Private taxis, as well as public/private transport buses, can be availed from the station to travel to Gangtok. It takes approximately 4 hours to travel this distance by bus and about 2 hours by taxi.

By Road: Regular bus service to Gangtok is available from the cities of Kolkata, Kalimpong, Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Bagdogra. All the buses from these cities ply till the Gangtok SNT Bus Station.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed inside the place?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed.

Que-03: What kind of animals can be seen at the Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park?

Ans: Visitors can see a variety of Himalayan animals, such as the red panda, snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, blue sheep, spotted deer, and various species of birds and reptiles.

Que-04: Are there any guided tours available in the park?

Ans: Guided tours may be offered by local travel agencies, but the park itself has signage and designated paths that visitors can follow for self-guided tours.

Que-05: Can visitors interact with the animals in the park?

Ans: Interaction with the animals is not permitted, as it is a zoological park with a focus on conservation, and animals are kept in enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitat.