Pune Zoo Ticket Prices Hiked 50% to Expand Animal Collection and Become Self-Reliant

As of November 11th, 2025, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced a significant increase in ticket prices for the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and Wildlife Research Centre. The current ticket prices, according to officials, are minimal compared to other zoos in the country, and the expenses incurred by the PMC for the zoo's operations are much higher than the revenue collected.

To make the zoo self-reliant and enable it to expand its animal collection, the PMC has decided to raise the ticket prices by 50%. The new adult ticket price will be Rs 60, up from the previous Rs 40, while children's tickets will now cost Rs 20 instead of Rs 10. Foreigners will have to pay Rs 150, up from Rs 100, and students of private schools will pay Rs 20, while those from government schools will pay Rs 10.

The zoo is also planning to add new animals to its collection, including zebras, mouse deer, and lion-tailed macaques. New enclosures are being constructed as part of the redevelopment of the snake park to accommodate these new additions. The zoo currently houses a variety of animals, such as tigers, leopards, lions, sloth bears, and various species of deer and monkeys.

The PMC commissioner stated that the ticket price increase is necessary to cover the rising costs of animal food, employee salaries, and the ongoing maintenance and expansion of the zoo. The last ticket price hike was in November 2018, and the current increase is the result of a detailed discussion to ensure the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park becomes self-reliant and continues to provide a quality experience for visitors.