Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, Katraj
Pune's zoo and snake park in Katraj, with tigers, elephants, deer and a large collection of snakes, around a lake.
Quick facts
- Location:
- Katraj, on the Pune-Satara road
- Known for:
- Zoo, snake park, lake
- Good for:
- Families with children
- Timings:
- Check before visiting (usually closed one day a week)
About the zoo
The Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park in Katraj is Pune's main zoo. It brought together the city's old zoo and the well-known Katraj snake park, in a large green area around the Katraj lake.
What you can see today
- Big cats such as tigers and leopards, elephants, deer and many birds.
- The snake park with Indian snakes, and information on how to stay safe from snake bites.
- Long walking paths among trees. Carts may be available for those who cannot walk far.
How to reach
The zoo is in Katraj, on the old Pune-Satara road, south of Swargate. City buses to Katraj stop near the gate.
Tips for visitors
- Plan for two to three hours and wear comfortable shoes.
- The zoo usually closes one day a week. Check before you go.
- Do not feed or tease the animals.
More in Gardens and Parks
- Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje Garden A big, much-loved garden on Jangli Maharaj Road with Pune's old fish aquarium, a toy fort, fountains and the famous Diwali fort and flower shows.
- Saras Baug A Peshwa-era garden at the foot of Parvati, built around a lake in 1750, with the much-loved Talyatla Ganpati temple at its heart. Free entry.
- Empress Garden A large old botanical garden near the Race Course, with rare trees, a lake and the city's famous flower shows.
- Mughal Garden A four-acre garden on Sinhagad Road laid out in the formal Mughal style, with terraces, water channels and fountains that light up in the evening.
- Bund Garden A riverside garden next to the old Fitzgerald Bridge, now called Mahatma Gandhi Udyan. A long-time favourite for evening walks.
- Seven Wonders Park (Late Yashwantrao Chavan Garden) A small theme park near Parvati with models of famous world wonders, from the Taj Mahal to the Pyramids, plus 3D and 4D shows.
Questions and answers
Is there a snake park in the Katraj zoo?
Yes. The Katraj snake park is part of the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park.
How much time do I need at the Katraj zoo?
About two to three hours to walk around at an easy pace.
Sources: Written by PuneDiary. Facts checked 10 October 2026.