Manipur Zoological Gardens

Manipur Zoological Gardens (known as 'Jewel Box of Manipur') in Iroisemba, Imphal (celebrated across ex situ wildlife conservation as a premier regional zoo, established in 1976 over eight hectares framed by pine slopes, world famous for its successful captive breeding of the endangered Sangai / Brow antlered Deer, Manipur's state animal, along with rare Clouded Leopards, Slow Loris, Himalayan Black Bears, Hoolock Gibbons, Serow, Malayan Sun Bears, and Hornbills, paved forest trails, moated enclosures, and peaceful nature retreat atmosphere), located in Iroisemba 6 km west of Imphal in Manipur, stands as Manipur's supreme wildlife conservation sanctuary.

Managed dedicatedly by the Manipur Forest Department, this compact zoological park works as a vital genetic reservoir and educational center where researchers and travelers observe rare Northeast fauna in spacious, forested enclosures designed to mimic their wild native habitats.

It's the home of the specialized Sangai Deer paddock where families of graceful dancing deer roam across grassy turf, the primate corner echoing with the characteristic morning calls of Hoolock Gibbons swinging from tree branches, the shaded pine walkways where school groups learn about endangered hill wildlife, the large aviary sheltering colorful oriental hornbills, and an intensely peaceful, deeply refreshing forest garden atmosphere filled with fresh pine scents and birdsong.

It represents a rich Manipur wildlife conservation apex, endangered species preservation, and eco family tourism where Sangai deer breeding, clouded leopard enclosures, Iroisemba hill walks, and Imphal day tours unite in Manipur Zoological Gardens.

Located in Iroisemba along the Imphal Kangchup Road, it sits 6 km west of Kangla Fort, 10 km from Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (IMF), 5 km from Ima Keithel, 50 km from Loktak Lake, and 8 km from Shri Govindjee Temple, easily reached in 15 minutes by auto rickshaw or local taxi.

The Ex Situ Sangai Deer Breeding Center

The zoo's crowning conservation achievement is its captive breeding program for the Sangai deer, ensuring a healthy backup population safe from the habitat threats facing Keibul Lamjao.

Visitors can view both mature stags with their distinctive bow shaped antlers and playful fawns grazing calmly within the large open air enclosure.

Truth is, watching a handsome Sangai stag pause on the grassy ridge just a few feet away with its regal crown of antlers is a wildlife lover's dream.

Rare Himalayan Fauna & Indo Burma Biodiversity

Clouded Leopards & Primates: The zoo houses the elusive Clouded Leopard, Slow Loris, Stump tailed Macaque, and Hoolock Gibbon, India's only ape species.

Pine Hillside Setting: The botanical layout features tall pine trees, native bamboo groves, and walking paths providing cool shaded strolls even on warm afternoons.

Iroisemba Wildlife & Imphal City Day Tour Plan

The Imphal Nature & Royal Circuit: Morning visit to Manipur Zoological Gardens in Iroisemba (9:00 AM to 11:30 AM: see Sangai deer, clouded leopards & aviaries) -> explore ancient Kangla Fort (12:00 PM to 1:45 PM) -> traditional Meitei lunch -> afternoon visit to Shri Govindjee Temple (2:30 PM to 3:45 PM) -> shopping at Ima Keithel women's market (4:15 PM to 5:45 PM) -> sunset drive to Loktak Lake (6:30 PM to 8:00 PM).

Zoo Visiting Guidelines: Teasing animals, feeding wildlife outside designated food, and carrying plastic bags into enclosures are strictly prohibited; please stay on paved walkways.

After observing rare Northeast wildlife at Manipur Zoological Gardens, explore Kangla Fort, visit Shri Govindjee Temple, or tour Loktak Lake.