LAHORE: The Lahore Zoo, one of the oldest and most popular zoos in Pakistan, has been entertaining visitors of all ages with its collection of animals from around the world. Its affordable entry ticket price of Rs100 has been a major draw, with visitors availing the opportunity to see animals worth millions of dollars at a fraction of the cost.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to see such a vast array of animals at an unbelievable price,” exclaimed Maria, a student from Lahore.

“Where else can you see a lion and a giraffe all in one place for just Rs100? It’s an absolute steal,” Ahmed, a businessman from Karachi, echoes Maria’s sentiments, while adding that he has visited zoos all over the world but Lahore Zoo is truly one of the best.

“The variety of animals, the cleanliness, and the facilities are all top-notch. And the price? Unbeatable,” he said.

Wildlife and Parks DG says ticket remains Rs100; visitors to reptile house have to pay Rs200 extra

Visitors to the zoo can get up close and personal with over 1,000 animals representing many important species. The zoo’s well-designed enclosures and walkways allow visitors to observe the animals at a close range, providing a thrilling experience for kids and adults alike. From the majestic lions to the playful monkeys and colorful birds, every exhibit offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world.

“I love bringing my kids to Lahore Zoo,” says Rukhsana, a homemaker from Lahore. “They learn so much about different animals and their habitats. And I love seeing the look of wonder on their faces when they see an animal up close for the first time. It’s truly priceless,” Salman, a photographer from Islamabad, praises the zoo’s facilities and staff.

“As a photographer, I’m always on the lookout for new and interesting subjects. The Lahore Zoo is a treasure trove of photographic opportunities. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the facilities are top-notch. I’ll definitely be back!”

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and educational experience, the Lahore Zoo is a must-visit destination. So why not plan a trip to Lahore Zoo today and discover the wonders of the animal kingdom up close? With its unbeatable price and world-class facilities, the Lahore Zoo is an experience you won’t want to miss.

In a recent statement, Wildlife and Parks Director General Mudassir Riaz Malik articulated the government’s commitment to delivering high-quality and affordable entertainment to the public. He highlighted that significant enhancements had been made to the infrastructure of both Lahore Safari and Lahore Zoo, elevating them to state-of-the-art facilities designed to enrich the visitor experience.

Malik confirmed that the entry ticket price for Lahore Zoo was still Rs100, dispelling any rumours of an increase.

“The administration has not raised the ticket price,” he stated, emphasizing that for just Rs100, visitors would enjoy seeing a full array of animals in the zoo. He also revealed the annual ticketing contract for Lahore Zoo had been awarded to a successful bidder for Rs500m, a substantial increase from the previous annual revenue of Rs160m, collected by the zoo administration itself.

In addition, Malik announced the introduction of two new attractions at Lahore Zoo: a hologram exhibit and a reptile house. The reptile house, featuring a diverse collection of snake species and other reptiles, had a separate fee of Rs200, if any visitor wanted to see it, he added.

Addressing concerns over misinformation, the Wildlife and Parks DG cautioned that certain elements were spreading baseless rumours regarding a potential increase to the entry fees, causing unnecessary anxiety among the visitors.

Published in Dawn, January 4th, 2025