Jambu zoo

Jambu Zoo is a zoological park situated in the Nagrota area on the outskirts of Jammu city, in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The zoo officially commenced operations with its inauguration on May 28, 2023. Its development is planned in phases, with the initial phase encompassing 70 hectares and a subsequent expansion intended to bring the total area to 163 hectares.

Early Animal Acquisitions and Key Species

The zoo's initial animal collection was transferred from the smaller Manda Zoo, which occupied 2.5 hectares. These early residents included species such as leopards, Himalayan black bears, and Sambhar deer. A significant addition to the zoo's attractions was the arrival of a Royal Bengal Tiger on November 16, 2023. Shortly before this, on November 7, 2023, a pair of Asiatic lions was acquired from Gujarat. These lions are housed in a specialized enclosure designed to meet Central Zoo Authority norms, featuring over 5500 square meters of space with climate control for the local weather conditions. This pair later produced two female cubs, named Kutki and Bhunki, on March 5, 2025.

Animal Exchange Programs and Expansion

Jambu Zoo has actively engaged in animal exchange programs to diversify its collection. On November 17, 2025, it received a pair of Striped Hyenas from Nahargarh Biological Park in exchange for two Himalayan Black Bears, as part of its approved animal collection plan. Further exchanges included two Indian wolves from Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden in April 2025, in return for a pair of leopards. A notable development occurred on March 12, 2026, when the zoo obtained its first pair of Hippopotamuses from Arignar Anna Zoological Park, Chennai, through an exchange that also involved Himalayan black bears and leopards. These animal transports were facilitated by Indian Railways.

Animal Exhibits

The zoo features distinct sections for mammals, birds, and reptiles. The mammal section includes a range of carnivores like the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, Leopard, Striped Hyena, and Indian Wolf. Omnivorous mammals such as the Himalayan black bear and Himalayan brown bear are present, alongside herbivorous species including Hippopotamuses, black buck, sambar deer, and various other deer types. The bird section showcases the Indian Peafowl and Emu, while the reptile section includes the Indian python, gharial, crocodile, and Russell's viper.