Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park

Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park, located in Katraj, Pune, Maharashtra, is a large zoological park spread over 130 acres. It comprises three main sections: a zoo, a snake park, and an animal orphanage and rescue center. The park includes the 42-acre Katraj Lake, which adds to the natural environment.

Established in 1999 and managed by the Pune Municipal Corporation, it houses over 300 animals across about 60 species, including leopards, white and Bengal tigers, crocodiles, and a vast variety of snakes such as king cobras. The park focuses on wildlife conservation, education, and research, providing naturalistic enclosures and care for injured and orphaned animals. It also offers educational activities, guided tours, and an animal adoption scheme. The zoo is a favored spot for locals and tourists alike, with facilities such as battery-operated vehicles for easier navigation and a small library dedicated to snakes.

It is closed on Wednesdays and has nominal entry fees, making it accessible to visitors interested in wildlife and nature. The origins of the park trace back to the older Peshwe Park, and it has evolved into a modern facility promoting animal welfare and environmental awareness in the Pune region.