Key Takeaways:

• Zoo reopened after bird flu outbreak was controlled
• Visitors must follow safety measures, including masks and distancing
• Facility had been closed since June 19 after infections in birds and mammals

KATHMANDU, JULY 17 The Central Zoo in Jawalakhel reopened to visitors on Friday after nearly a month of closure, with the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) announcing that the avian influenza outbreak detected inside the facility has been brought under control. In a public notice, NTNC said the zoo resumed operations from Shrawan 1, 2083 (July 17, 2026) after the infection was contained. The zoo has urged visitors to follow health and safety measures, including wearing masks, keeping distance from animals, avoiding affected enclosures, and refraining from feeding wildlife. The zoo will remain open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, with visitors required to leave by 5 pm. The Central Zoo had been closed indefinitely since June 19 after bird flu infections were detected in crows and pigeons found dead inside the premises. Laboratory tests later confirmed the virus in several bird species and some mammals, including civet cats and clouded leopards, prompting authorities to shut the facility as a precaution. NTNC said the reopening follows successful containment of the outbreak and completion of necessary health and safety measures.