Government of Meghalaya

Forests & Environment Department

Government of Meghalaya
Forests & Environment Department, Government of Meghalaya

Mini Zoos & Parks

Ex-Situ Conservation & Botanical Wonders

The wildlife wing of the Meghalaya Forests & Environment Department establishes and maintains Mini Zoos, Gardens, and Parks. These serve as pivotal spaces for the ex-situ conservation of endangered species, act as professional rescue rehabilitation units, and promote critical environmental awareness among thousands of local and global visitors.

  • ConserveCare for endangered species outside the wild
  • RescueTreat and rehabilitate injured or orphaned animals
  • EducateBuild awareness among local and global visitors

Explore Parks & Gardens

Lady Hydari Park & Mini Zoo

Established in 1937 South of the Shillong Secretariat. Features three major hubs: Park/Garden Area, Animal Land, and Forest Museum.

Chronological Milestones:

1937
Established in 1937 under Governor Sir Robert Neil Reid south of the Shillong Secretariat, this historic venue was initially christened 'Lady Reid Pleasure Park' for the town's elite.

Animal Land Exhibits:

300 M
From Secretariat
CZA Registered
Official Mini Zoo
Rescue Centre
Primary Role

Nehru Park cum Mini Zoo, Danakgre

The only wildlife zoo in the Garo Hills region, acting as a crucial sanctuary for orphaned and injured forest animals.

Chronological Milestones:

1967
Handed over by the District Administration at Tura Park to the DFO of Garo Hills Division to function as an early wildlife shelter.

Zoo Species Exhibits:

Strategic Vision & Mission

Scientific Vision
  • 📌 Engaging in strict Animal Welfare, collaborative research, and local conservation breeding plans.
  • 📌 Ecologically sound design principles maintaining zero-pollution environments.
  • 📌 Outstanding "Value for Money" offering learning, fun, and entertainment.
Conservation Mission
  • 📌 Functioning as a primary Rescue Centre for seized, orphaned, and injured wild animals of Garo Hills.
  • 📌 Cultivating deep empathy and understanding of ecological linkages amongst local visitors.
  • 📌 Coordinating planned conservation breeding of regional endangered species.

Lum Nehru Park, Umiam

A beautiful 22.5-acre lakeside catchment garden surrounding the windswept hills of the Umiam Hydel reservoir.

Chronological Milestones:

1989
Established in 1989 near Umiam Lake's catchment, this park was developed on a windswept hillock to commemorate Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. It honors his legacy and marks his laying of the foundation stone for the landmark Umiam Hydel Project.
PARK HIGHLIGHTS AREA: 22.5 ACRES
🍀 Panoramic Grass Lawns & Viewpoints
Windswept grass lawns positioned at scenic heights, offering panoramic views of Umiam catchment. Recognized as the state's prime picnic getaway.
22.5 Acres
Total Area
Umiam Basin
Catchment Views
March 1990
Inauguration Date

Lady Hydari Park / Ka Phan Nonglait Park

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Lum Nehru Park

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Meghalaya Biological Park, Umtrew

Nestled amidst the lush green forests of Umtrew in Ri-Bhoi District, Meghalaya Biological Park is the State Zoo of Meghalaya, spread over approximately 72 hectares and located about 25 km from Shillong along the Shillong–Guwahati National Highway. The Park was inaugurated on 27 November 2024, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of zoological management in the State. It provides a spacious and scientifically managed setting for wildlife, addressing the space constraints of the erstwhile Mini Zoo at Lady Hydari Park, Shillong, from where the animals were subsequently shifted to Umtrew.

Planned with due consideration to the natural topography, climate and forest character of Meghalaya, the Park primarily showcases the rich and distinctive fauna of Meghalaya and Northeast India. Its animal collection includes important regional species such as the Clouded Leopard, Common Leopard, Hoolock Gibbon, Himalayan Black Bear, Stump-tailed Macaque, Leopard Cat, Golden Jackal, Sambar Deer, Northern Red Muntjac and several native birds and reptiles.

The Park places strong emphasis on animal welfare, scientific management, conservation breeding, rescue and rehabilitation, research and environmental education. Dedicated conservation initiatives for flagship species such as the Clouded Leopard and Hoolock Gibbon further strengthen its conservation role.

Through naturalistic animal habitats, conservation programmes and visitor education, Meghalaya Biological Park seeks to connect people with wildlife and inspire greater appreciation and protection of Meghalaya’s remarkable biodiversity and natural heritage.