Zoo Museum

About Zoo Museum

The main attraction of the Junagadh Zoo is the Asiatic Lion. There are around 300 of them alive today and all of them can be found in the Gir Forest nearby. Previously the Asiatic Lion was found on the stretch between the Mediterranean and India. The zoo has taken the uphill task of preserving this species by starting the Endangered Species Captive Breeding program. According to this program, the lions are bred in the zoo and then let out in the nearby Gir Forest.

Other animals found at the Junagadh Zoo are tigers, leopards, lions, elephants and different other species. The flamengo birds are also found in this zoo. Inside the zoo, one can find the Junagadh Zoo Museum. Rare manuscripts, sculptures, miniature paintings and several other artifacts are displayed here. The museum organizes seminars and travel sessions regularly for the benefit of the tourists. Films are also shown in the museum.

The co-existence of a zoo and a museum undoubtedly makes Junagadh Zoo Museum one of the most visited Tourist attractions in Junagadh. The zoo, comprising of the various animals and birds of a variety of taxonomic categories, also is home to a museum which preserves the very valuable documents, manuscripts, sovereigns, sculptures, various letterings, miniature paintings.

Interesting things to Visit

Etched in a huge boulder, the edicts were founded by James Todd, but it was much later by 1837 that Rev. Dr. John Wilson who made them properly known to the world by copying the edicts and in 1843 they were enlisted in the Bombay branch journal by the Royal Asiatic Society.

Mahabat Maqbara:
The city of Junagadh can boast of some beautiful ancient mausoleum erected by the Nawabs of Junagadh in the 18th century in the area around Chitkana Chowk. These mausoleum are charming in their own way, with nicely designed arches, vertical columns, and intricate stone carvings. However, the mausoleum built later; or rather the newer ones are more attractive and lure a greater number of tourists who floch to this place every year. The yellow mausoleum, Mahabat Maqbara, Junagadh, is a masterpiece of it own kind. The uniqueness of the affluence of silver at the portals teemed with intricate carvings and the winding staircase encircling the four minarets attract a lot of tourists to its site. The onion shaped dome also adds to the entire beauty of the spectacle.

Uperkot Fort:
From the little chronological information that we get regarding the historical origin of the Uperkot Fort, Junagadh, was built by Chandragupta Maurya in 319 B.C. Later, around 10th century, Rah Grahar reconstructed the entire palace out of the ruins and built the fort along with all the updated requirements of a proper one. However, according to whatever evidence is available, it can be said that the fort was erected in or around the third century or in the times of the Mahabharata.

Concrete historical pages since 875 A.D say that the Uperkot Fort had served as the capital to 20 rulers of the following dynasties: Maurya, Gupta, Mandlik, Mahipal, Khengar and Navghan, sustaining 16 assaults, the last one being in 1784 all with little success though. Further down, the fort has been put to use by the British as military quarters for the country till year 1947.

Durbar Hall Museum:
Located in the historic city of Junagarh in Gujarat, the Durbar Hall Museum is one of the most famous tourist attractions of Gujarat. The beautiful Durbar Hall was used as durbar (court) of the erstwhile Nawabs of Junagadh. The Durbar Hall has many interesting sections like Picture Gallery, Palanquin, Textile and Arms Gallery.

The Durbar Hall Museum displays exciting collections of weapons and armor, belonging to the period of the Junagarh Nawabs along with other interesting curios and artifacts. The Museum also displays silver chains, chandeliers, settees, thrones, palanquins, howdahs, cushions, gowns and a large carpet that was woven in the Junagarh jail.

Wellington Dam:
Built by the Britishers near the foot of Datar hill. The three sides and a garden in front it affords an enchanting view.

Wellington Dam:
Built by the Britishers near the foot of Datar hill. The three sides and a garden in front it affords an enchanting view.

Scince Museum:
Scince Museum is gujarat’s first and the only private science museum. More than 60 working science projects based on science facts. Which can be operated by visitors. Worth visiting attached one small aquarium and evening open air garden restaurant garden café serves south Indian and Punjabi dishes since 1981.

Narsinh Maheta Lake:
Narsinh Maheta Lake is a beautiful lake constructed by joint effort of the people of Junagadh near Talav Gate.

Bhavnath Mahadev:
Located at the foot hills of the Girnar Hills, the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is one of the foremost Holy Places in Junagadh. Nothing much is known about its precise origin but there is no scope of doubt about its historicity. It has stood their since ancient times. Visited by religious minded devotees all along the year, it is however best known for being the venue of the famous Bhavnath Fair.Held in the month of Magha as per the Hindu calendar (roughly coincides with January/February) this fair is the meeting point of a large number of people and is celebrated with a great deal of mirth and good cheer. It continues for five days. Events include performances put up by folk singers and dancers. One of the most striking features of this fair hosted at the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple is the active participation of the Naga Bavas.

The worship starts at mid night on the 14th day of the dark half in the Magha month and as soon as the puja commences these sages are seen advancing towards the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple seated on elephants holding flags in their hands. The air reverberates with the sounds of the conch shells, the tungis and the turis. A strong belief is prevalent that on this day Lord Shiva himself visits the Bhavnath Mahadev Temple. The organizers serve free meals to the visitors on this auspicious occasion.

Temple of Gorakhnath:
The Temple of Gorakhnath, Junagadh, Gujarat, India is an ancient temple. However, no comprehensive records are found till date to establish the date of its construction.

Junagadh Temple of Gorakhnath is positioned at the Girnar Hill in the district of Junagadh, Gujarat. Girnar Hill lies about 5 kms to the east of Junagadh. The presiding deity at this temple is Lord Gorakhnath. In the vicinity of this beautiful temple, you would get the chance to see several other Hindu temples along with a number of Jain temples.

Neminath Temple:
This rectangular temple is devoted to Neminath, the famous 22nd Tirthankar of Jainism. The Junagadh Temple of Neminath houses a deity of Lord Neminath. This presiding deity dwells in lotus along with a conch. Carved in black stone, Lord Neminath presents an awe inspiring sight.The construction of this temple began in 1128 AD and was finished in 1159 AD. Two brothers, Vastupal and Tejpal, were the brain behind the construction of Neminath Temple. It was this duo who is also held in high esteem for Mount Abu’s Dilwara temples, a marvelous piece of architecture.

Amba Mata Temple:
The Temple of Amba Mata, Junagadh, Gujarat, India is an ancient shrine. This temple dates back to the 12th century.Junagadh Temple of Amba Mata is positioned on top of the Girnar Hill that’s 600 meter in height. The presiding deity at this Hindu temple is Goddess Amba, an incarnation of the mother Goddess. Every year, thousand of pilgrims come to this temple to offer their prayers and seek divine blessings. This temple is especially a place frequented by the newly married couples who arrive at this place to be blessed by the Goddess. It is believed that the blessings of Goddess Amba would ensure eternal conjugal bliss for the couple.

Mallinath Temple:
Actually the Junagadh Temple of Mallinath is a triple temple. The exteriors of this temple are exquisitely carved and present a stunning sight to behold. At this temple, you would be able to get a captivating insight into Jain religious rituals. Akin to a Hindu temple, pilgrims at this place also offer leaves, fruit, flowers, vermilion, sandalwood paste and grains to the deity, amidst ringing of the bells and chanting of mantras. Once the pooja gets over, these devotees adorn their foreheads with liberal daubs of vermilion as well as sandalwood paste. A generous amount of money is also offered for the upkeep of the shrine.The credit of the construction of Temple of Mallinath, Junagadh, Gujarat, India goes to two brothers named Vastupal and Tejpal. Junagadh Temple of Mallinath was erected in 1177 by this duo.

Girnar Hill:
Rising up on the outskirts of Junagadh is Mt Girnar, whose 3660 foot high summit is crowned by some of the finest and religiously most important temples. The climb is a steep one and best undertaken in the very early hours of the morning. The main entrance to the hill is in front of the Uparkot. On the hill top there are Jain and Hindu temples standing in a quadrangular courtyard. The main temple, which is surrounded by pillared cloisters containing 70 cells is dedicated to the 22nd Jain Thirthankara (God) Neminath. Further up from Neminath Temple, the Amba Temple is where newly married Hindu prays for a happy marriage.

Bazaars in Junagadh:
The bustling town of Junagadh in Gujarat carries with it a long history of tradition and heritage. This princely town has been the capital of the Mauryan and the Gupta dynasty and later on was the reigning seat of the Chudasama Rajputs from the 9th to the 15th century. It is located at the foothills of Mount Girnar and is an important Jain pilgrim points.The temples situated at Mount Girnar are some of the most frequented spots in Junagadh. The journey uphill is strenuous when you consider the 2000 steps that you have to climb but rewarding in ways more than one. The 16 shrines in the mountain top reflects the architectural splendor of Junagadh. Apart from the tourist attractions you can also visit the Bazaars in Junagadh which is a good way to spend a leisurely afternoon.

Nearest Visiting places from Zoo Museum

Sasan Gir Forest & Sanctuary:
It is situated 65 Kms. from Junagadh via Keshod (where there is an airport). It is connected both by Rail as well as Road. Sasan Gir Sanctuary provides refuge to that rare species-the Asiatic Lion. The sanctuary covers an area of 500 sq. miles of dry, open scrubland where the lions roam freely. They can be seen on guided jeep tours through the jungles. The museum inside the sanctuary provides knowledge about environment and its relationship with human beings. Apart from the lions, the wild life includes antelope, hyena, fox, monkeys, lipard, the nilgai or black buck, chinkara, chousingha and other species of the deer family. The habitat varies from arid to semi-arid. Grasslands, scrub, savannah and dry deciduous forests are intersected by several hill and river systems.

Somnath temple :
Situated 79 Kms. from Junagadh and 30 Kms from Chorwad, the legendary shore temple of Somnath is one of the twelve most sacred Shiva shrines in India. According to the legend, Somnath is as old as creation, built by none other than Soma, the Moon God himself. Somnath was destroyed seven times, and seven times, it was rebuilt. Mehmud of Gazni having heard of its fabulous treasure, raided it in 1026 and carried away camel-loads of jewels and gold.

Madhavpur:
Junagadh Madhavpur beach, which made news recently for Tropex-2009 military exercise, has another claim to fame. It is home to a two-decade long conservation project of Green Sea and Olive Ridley turtles: both endangered marine species included in Schedule-1 of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.According to the Forest department, over 10,000 baby turtles have been safely released in the Arabian Sea this year.Ever since the conservation work began nearly 20 years ago, around 2 lakh baby turtles have been released into the sea.

Ahmedpur- Mandvi:
Ahmedpur- Mandvi is a beautiful sea-resort which commands a panoramic view across the creek of Diu island. This beach stretches around 6-km and provides utmost relaxation to visitors and ideal place for water sports as mentioned above and enjoying traditional food in huts decorated with local style of architecture.

Jalaram Temple:
India is a land of saints since ages. Many saints have served the poor and miserable people of India through out their life. Such saints are really rare on this earth. One of such saint was Jalarambapa of Gujarat. Saint Jalaram was born in the year 1799 at Virpur, a small village nearRajkot, one of the important cities of Gujarat. There is a famous temple of Jalarambapa at Virpur in Gujarat. Many Indians have a deep faith in Jalarambapa. They always visit this temple whenever they get an opportunity. Saint Jalaram was not a god but was a human being, just like you and me. In spite of it, he is worshipped today amongst all Indians more than god. The worshippers of Saint Jalaram are available in all the parts of the world.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation nearby Zoo Museum

**Hotel Shikhar Palace:**Shikhar Complex,Jayshree Road,Kalwa Chowk,Junagadh,Gujarat,Ph:0285 2626596

Help Line/Phone Number

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Location info

• **Address:**Zoo,Museum,Junagadh,Gujarat,India

• District: Junagadh

• Nearest City: Junagadh

• Language: Gujarati, Hindi.

• Best time to visit: October to March

Climate & weather

Junagarh is mild with temperature summers.beatween 34-43°C in winters and 28-34°C in the

History of Zoo Museum

The Junagadh Zoo at Set up in 1863 A.D, and situated at 4km north of the southern part of Junagadh, the Sakkar Bagh Zoo, Junagadh, is oldest of its kind in the entire state of Gujarat, set up by the Nawab with a view to keep poaching under control of the Asiatic lion. It is a well maintained animal park , home to several species of motley colored birds, including flamingos, tigers, lions, leopards and other royal beasts. In the very premises of the zoo, there exists the Junagadh Zoo Museum, Junagadh with various objects which emit cultural evidences from the past.

How to reach Zoo Museum

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Junagadh railway station,connected to Ahmedabad

• **Nearest Airport:**Keshod 37 km & Rajkot 99 km,connected to Mumbai airport

**Road Transport:**State connect Junagarh with Bhavnagar, Ahmedabad 321 km, Gir, Rajkot 101 km , Bhuj, Dwarka, Somnath, Palitana, Surat, Vadodara, Porbandar 113 km . Taxis, Auto-rickshaws, Tongas & City Bus services are available for local transport.

Nearest petrol pump

• **HP Petrol Pump:**Nearest jayshree cinema Junagadh,Gujarat,India

Best time to visit Zoo Museum

October to March with pleasant temperatures.

Timings & opening hours

10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. May be closed on public holidays.

Entry fee & tickets

INR 10 to 20 for Indians.

Duration needed

1 to 2 hours.

Safety tips

Standard museum visit precautions. Follow museum rules regarding photography.

Things to carry

Camera (check photography policy). ID proof.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport and railway station in the nearest city.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, and Vi all provide good coverage across Gujarat’s major cities and tourist areas. 4G is generally reliable in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote areas of Kutch and interior Saurashtra. Most hotels and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options near the museum may be limited. The nearest town typically has restaurants and cafes. Carrying water is recommended — most museums do not allow food inside.

Things to do at Zoo Museum

Explore the museum exhibits and learn about the collections.

Frequently asked questions

What is Zoo Museum? A museum in Gujarat.

What are the timings? 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Is photography allowed? Check at the entrance.

Accessibility

Museum accessibility varies. Major museums in cities have level access or ramps at the entrance. Smaller, privately-run museums in older buildings may have steps and narrow doorways. Contact the museum in advance for specific accessibility information.

Rules & restrictions

Photography rules vary — some museums prohibit all photography, others allow photography without flash. Check signage at the entrance. Do not touch exhibits. Food and drinks are not permitted inside most museums. Large bags may need to be checked. Follow the designated visitor route and respect gallery closures.

Best photography spots

Check the museum’s photography policy before shooting — some prohibit all photography. For permitted photography, use available light — flash is rarely allowed. Focus on details: artefact textures, gallery compositions, and architectural features of the museum building itself.

Quick facts

• Type: museums
• Location: Gujarat, India
• Ideal for: History enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and photographers
• Best time to visit: October to March (pleasant winter season)
• Photography: Allowed at most areas; some sites may have restrictions inside sanctums

Plan your visit to Zoo Museum with these essential quick facts for a smooth and enjoyable trip to Gujarat.

Visitor information

Planning your visit to Zoo Museum

• Language: Gujarati is the local language; Hindi and English are widely understood at tourist sites.
• Getting around: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and state transport buses are readily available. Hiring a private vehicle is recommended for comfort.
• What to wear: Light cotton clothing in summer; light woolens in winter. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Modest dress is advised at religious sites.
• Photography: Check for photography restrictions before entering. Some temples and museums may charge a separate camera fee.
• Best time to visit: October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
• Local cuisine: Don’t miss Gujarati thali — a wholesome meal with dal, rice, vegetables, roti, and sweets like dhokla, khandvi, and mohanthal.

Nearby facilities

• ATMs: Available in nearby towns and at major tourist sites.
• Medical facilities: Primary health centers and hospitals can be found in district headquarters.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at major tourist spots; carry hand sanitizer and tissues.

Make your visit to Zoo Museum comfortable and hassle-free with these practical visitor tips for Gujarat.

Map & location view

Zoo Museum is located in the vibrant state of Gujarat, India. The destination is accessible by road and is well-connected to major cities and towns in the region, making it a convenient addition to any Gujarat travel itinerary.

How to reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is connected to major Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Vadodara with regular domestic flights.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is connected to the Indian railway network with regular trains from major cities across India.
• By Road: State transport buses, private taxis, and self-drive options are available from nearby cities. Gujarat has a well-maintained network of state highways and national highways.

Use GPS navigation or local maps to find the exact location of this destination in Gujarat. The Gujarat Tourism website provides additional travel resources for visitors.

Photo gallery

Visual highlights of Zoo Museum

Visitors to Zoo Museum will find plenty of photogenic spots worth capturing. From architectural details to natural landscapes, the destination offers diverse subjects for photography enthusiasts.

What to photograph:

• Architecture: Intricate carvings, structural details, and traditional Gujarati craftsmanship
• Landscapes: Surrounding natural beauty, gardens, and panoramic views of the Gujarat landscape
• Local life: Candid moments of visitors, vendors, and daily activities around the site
• Details: Close-up shots of carvings, paintings, decorative elements, and textures

Photography tips:

• Early morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) offer the best natural light for photography in Gujarat’s climate
• Check if photography is allowed inside buildings before taking photos
• A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing architectural grandeur at Gujarat’s heritage sites
• Mobile phone photography works well in well-lit outdoor areas

Browse through our collection of photographs showcasing the beauty and heritage of Zoo Museum. New images are added regularly as part of our ongoing content enrichment for this Gujarat destination.