Located in the Mirpur section of Dhaka, the Bangladesh National Zoo is a premier destination for nature lovers and tourists. Spanning over 186 acres (75 hectares), it is the largest zoo in Bangladesh and serves as a vital hub for wildlife conservation in the country.
The Glorious History of its Establishment
The journey of the Bangladesh National Zoo evolved through several significant phases:
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The Inception (1950): On 26 December 1950, the Ministry of Agriculture, Cooperation, and Aid officially declared the establishment of a zoo in Dhaka. It initially started at Segunbagicha (near the present High Court) with a small collection of spotted deer, peacocks, monkeys, and an elephant.
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Relocation & Management: It was later moved to the Eidgah Maidan for a larger space. In 1961, a formal board was created to ensure proper management of the zoo.
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Official Inauguration (1974): After acquiring a diverse range of native and exotic animals, the zoo was officially inaugurated at its present location in Mirpur on 23 June 1974.
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The Name Change: For decades, it was known as the âDhaka Zoo.â However, on 5 February 2015, it was officially renamed the âBangladesh National Zooâ.
Diverse Wildlife Collection (2024 Statistics)
As of 2024, the zoo is home to 2,150 animals from 191 species. The major attractions include:
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Mammals: The majestic Bengal Tiger, Indian Rhinoceros, the swift Impala, lions, cheetahs, Asian elephants, zebras, giraffes, hippos, black bears, hyenas, chimpanzees, and baboons.
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Aviary (Birds): The zoo houses rare species like the Sarus Crane, the Great White Pelican, ostriches, emus, cassowaries, and colorful macaws. Additionally, native birds like the Pond Heron roam freely, and the zooâs two lakes host thousands of migratory birds every winter.
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Reptiles & Fish: The collection includes 13 species of reptiles (including snakes and crocodiles) and 28 species of fish.
- Royal Bengal Tiger
- Indian Lion
- African white Lion
- Spotted Hayena
- Stripped Hyaena
- Fishing Cat
- Indian Jackal
- Leopard cat
- Asian Palm Civet
- Small Indian Civet
- Spotted Deer and more.
Management and Budget
Operated by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the zoo has a yearly budget of approximately Tk 37.5 million. Out of this, Tk 25 million is dedicated specifically to animal feed. The zoo attracts around 10,000 visitors daily, a number that increases significantly during weekends and holidays, totaling nearly 3 million visitors annually.
Current Context and Awareness
Despite its popularity, the zoo has faced challenges regarding animal living conditions and administrative transparency. However, authorities are continuously working to improve animal welfare and infrastructure. As visitors, it is our responsibility to be kind to the animalsâavoiding any disturbanceâand to keep the environment clean.
Travel Tips:
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Location: Zoo Road, Mirpur-1, Dhaka.
Summer season (April to October) 9.00AM- 6.00 PM,
Winter season (November to March) 8.00AM-5.00 PM The zoo is closed every Sunday (Every Sunday zoo is closed except government holiday).
- Ticketing: Entry can be secured via QR codes at the gate or through the online e-ticketing system.
Come and lose yourself in this vast canvas of nature. Experience wildlife up close and personal at the Bangladesh National Zoo!
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