Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden

Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden is a historic zoo located in Junagadh, Gujarat, near Majevadi Gate at the foothills of Girnar. Established in 1863 by Nawab Mahabat Khanji Babi II, it is one of India's oldest zoos and covers about 84 hectares. Renowned as a breeding centre for pure-bred Asiatic lions, it houses diverse mammals, birds and reptiles and includes a natural history museum, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and families.

Visitors can expect a large, green zoo campus with fenced enclosures, cages and open paddocks housing Asiatic lions, tigers, leopards, deer, antelopes, birds and reptiles. Paved walkways connect animal sections, shaded seating areas and a natural history museum displaying specimens and skeletons. The setting is semi-arid with planted trees and gardens near Girnar foothills. Visitors can walk through the zoo, observe animals, take photographs and visit the museum.

Established in 1863 by Nawab Mahabat Khanji Babi II of Junagadh State, Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden is the second oldest zoo in India and the oldest in Gujarat. Initially created for recreation and to house wild animals of the princely state, it later became a nationally important conservation and captive breeding centre for the endangered Asiatic lion, supplying pure-bred lions to zoos across India.

Associated with Junagadh's princely heritage and Gujarat's wildlife conservation identity, particularly for the Asiatic lion, the state animal of Gujarat. The zoo and its museum reflect regional biodiversity and long-standing efforts to conserve Gir's wildlife.