Nestled at the foot of the Margalla Hills in Pakistan's Islamabad Capital Territory, the former Islamabad Zoo—originally opened in 1978 as Marghazar Zoo—spans 82 acres (33 ha) and uniquely began as a refuge for native species like leopards, spotted deer, and Indian gazelle. Integrated into the Japanese garden with an added aviary, it long served as a popular local attraction. However, you should know that the site is currently closed to visitors following a landmark May 2020 Islamabad High Court ruling that ordered its shutdown due to systemic severe animal mistreatment, bad quality food, and inadequate facilities.
Following a high-profile international campaign supported by pop icon Cher, the zoo famously relocated its long-neglected Asian elephant, Kaavan, to a sanctuary in Cambodia in December 2020. Today, the park has been handed over to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board. Although the animals have been temporarily moved to shelters, a $7.5 million rehabilitation project is underway to completely transform the former zoo into an eco-friendly conservation centre dedicated to treating and rehabilitating injured wildlife.
It stands as a significant site marking a major shift toward animal welfare and local conservation efforts.
What to see at Islamabad Zoo
- Located at the scenic foot of the Margalla Hills
- Originally established in 1978 as a sanctuary for native leopards and deer
- Site of international animal welfare campaigns, including the rescue of Kaavan the elephant
- Undergoing a $7.5 million transformation into a dedicated wildlife conservation centre
- Managed by the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board
Visiting tips
Please note that the zoo is currently closed to the public while undergoing renovation into a wildlife conservation centre.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Islamabad Zoo is easy to reach on Islamabad’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Faisal Mosque and Lal Masjid. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Islamabad travel guide.
See the full Islamabad travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.