Jijamata Udyan, better known to most Mumbaikars as Byculla Zoo or Rani Baug, is one of the oldest public gardens in the country and still one of the most loved weekend spots in the city. Between the botanical garden, the animal enclosures and the Humboldt penguins that draw crowds from every corner of Mumbai, it is easy to see why this place stays busy through the year. If you are planning a visit and want to know the exact Jijamata Udyan ticket price along with timings, location and everything else worth knowing beforehand, here is a complete breakdown.
Jijamata Udyan Ticket Price 2026
Here is the current entry fee structure for the zoo, based on visitor category.
| Ticket Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Indian Adult (above 12 years) | ₹50 |
| Indian Child (3 to 12 years) | ₹25 |
| Indian Family (2 adults plus 2 children) | ₹100 |
| Foreign National, Adult | ₹400 |
| Foreign National, Child | ₹200 |
| Children below 3 years | Free |
| Camera charges | Extra, payable separately at the counter |
The zoo remains one of the cheapest full day outings in Mumbai for locals, especially when you compare it to most other paid attractions in the city. The Humboldt penguin enclosure, which is the single biggest draw for most visitors, is included in the regular entry ticket and does not need a separate charge in most cases, though it is always worth checking at the counter since policies around the penguin section have changed a few times over the years. Bringing along a camera for photography, on the other hand, usually does attract a small extra fee, so keep some change handy if you plan on taking pictures with a proper camera rather than just your phone.
Students, teachers and staff from BMC run schools get free entry with proper documentation, which is a nice touch for anyone organising an educational trip.
What the Entry Ticket Covers
- Access to the main animal enclosures, including tigers, hyenas, elephants and deer
- The Humboldt penguin exhibit
- The reptile section with crocodiles, turtles and monitor lizards
- The aviary and various bird enclosures
- The full botanical garden with its wide collection of trees and plants
- Walking pathways connecting all major sections of the park
Certain seasonal attractions like flower exhibitions or special shows may carry an additional charge, so it is worth checking the notice board near the entrance on the day of your visit.
Jijamata Udyan Timings
The zoo is open every day of the week except Wednesday, which is reserved for maintenance work.
Regular visiting hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with last entry generally allowed around 5:30 PM.
Do note that during the monsoon months, the penguins are sometimes moved off display temporarily for their own care, so if seeing the penguins is the main reason for your visit, it helps to check current status before heading out during the rainy season.
Location and Address
Address: Jijamata Udyan, Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road, Byculla East, Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400027
The garden sits right in Byculla East, one of Mumbai’s older and more centrally located neighbourhoods, close to landmarks like the Dr Bhau Daji Lad Museum, which many visitors combine into the same day trip. Searching “Jijamata Udyan” or “Byculla Zoo” on Google Maps will take you straight to the main gate, and the entrance is clearly marked from the main road.
How to Reach Byculla Zoo
- By train: Byculla railway station on the Central Line is the closest station, just a short walk of about 10 minutes from the zoo entrance, making local trains by far the easiest way to reach the park.
- By road: Regular BEST buses and auto rickshaws connect Byculla to most parts of central and south Mumbai, and cabs are readily available through app based services as well.
- By car: Parking near the zoo is limited and tends to fill up fast, especially on weekends, so public transport is the more reliable option if you are visiting during peak hours.
Best Time to Visit Jijamata Udyan
Best time of day: Early morning, right after the 9:00 AM opening, tends to be the most pleasant, with cooler temperatures and thinner crowds around the penguin enclosure, which gets packed quickly once the day gets going.
Best days of the week: Weekday mornings, particularly Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, are noticeably quieter than weekends. Saturdays and Sundays bring in large family crowds, so expect longer lines near the entrance and the penguin viewing area.
Best season: Winter months, from around November to February, offer the most comfortable weather for walking through the full garden without the heat or humidity slowing you down. Monsoon season makes the botanical garden look particularly lush and green, though the penguins may be off display during this period, and occasional rain can cut a visit short. Summer visits work best if you arrive early and avoid the peak afternoon heat, since Mumbai’s humidity can get uncomfortable by midday.
Days to avoid: Wednesdays, since the zoo stays closed that day for maintenance.
Facilities Inside the Zoo
- Clean drinking water points across the grounds
- Accessible restrooms
- A canteen serving snacks and light refreshments
- Play areas suited for younger children
- A small museum section inside the premises
- Seating areas and shaded resting spots throughout the garden
Tips for a Smoother Visit
Carry a water bottle and some light snacks, especially if you are visiting with kids, since the park is fairly large and you may end up spending two to four hours walking through it. Comfortable shoes make a real difference given the amount of walking involved. If photography matters to you, keep some cash aside for the camera fee, and try to plan your visit around the penguin enclosure’s calmer hours, generally right after opening, to get a proper look without being squeezed into a crowd.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Jijamata Udyan ticket price for adults?
The standard entry fee for Indian adults above 12 years is ₹50.
How much does a child’s ticket cost?
Children between 3 and 12 years pay ₹25. Kids below 3 years enter free.
Is there a family ticket option?
Yes, a family ticket covering two adults and two children is priced at around ₹100.
Does the ticket include the penguin exhibit?
Yes, in most cases the Humboldt penguin enclosure is included within the regular entry fee, though it is worth confirming at the counter on the day of your visit.
What day is Byculla Zoo closed?
The zoo remains closed every Wednesday for maintenance.
What are the entry fees for foreign visitors?
Foreign nationals pay ₹400 for adults and ₹200 for children.
Can I book Jijamata Udyan tickets online?
Yes, tickets can be booked in advance through the official Mumbai zoo booking portal, which also lets you add on options like camera charges during checkout.
What is the nearest railway station?
Byculla station on the Central Line is the closest, roughly a 10 minute walk from the main entrance.
Conclusion
Jijamata Udyan continues to be one of the most affordable and rewarding day trips within Mumbai city limits. At just ₹50 for adults and ₹25 for children, families get access to a proper botanical garden, a solid mix of animals and reptiles, and of course the ever popular penguin enclosure, all within easy reach of Byculla station. Just remember to skip Wednesdays, arrive early if you want a calmer walk through the park, and carry a bit of extra cash for the camera charges if you plan on taking photos during your visit.
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