Arignar Anna Zoological Park: A tour guide to India biggest zoo
You very well known about the zoo’s but have you listened about the India biggest zoo ,and where it is ,then let’s know by reading about the Arignar Anna Zoological Park from this blog . Then without any time wasting read this
lets go to read about Arignar Anna Zoological Park
The Arignar Anna Zoological Park, popularly known as Vandalur Zoo, is India’s largest zoo, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Spread over an area of 602 hectares (1,490 acres), it is a sprawling haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, attracting thousands of visitors every year. Established in 1855, the zoo was initially located in Chennai city and later relocated to Vandalur in 1985 to accommodate the growing number of species and visitors. It has since become one of India’s most popular zoological parks, offering an enriching experience to those who love nature, animals, and conservation efforts.
History and Overview
Arignar Anna Zoological Park is named after Arignar Anna, a prominent Indian politician. The zoo was originally created to house exotic animals and promote wildlife conservation. Over time, it expanded and now includes over 2,600 animals from 170 species, representing various ecological systems from across the world. The park is designed to offer a natural habitat for the animals, ensuring they live in conditions as close to the wild as possible.
The zoo is not only a place to see animals but also focuses on research, conservation, and breeding of endangered species. It participates in breeding programs for animals like lions, tigers, elephants, and rare reptiles, contributing to the preservation of biodiversity.
Animal Species at Vandalur Zoo
With a vast collection of species, Arignar Anna Zoological Park is home to a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Some of the notable animals you can expect to see here include:
Mammals: Tigers, Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Gaur (Indian bison), Nilgai, Indian Rhinoceros, Sloth Bears, and several species of deer and antelope.
Birds: The zoo has a large aviary with species like Peacocks, Pelicans, Hornbills, Parrots, and Flamingos.
Reptiles: It houses reptiles like Crocodiles, Snakes (including King Cobras), and Lizards.
Butterfly Park: The park also has a dedicated Butterfly House where you can witness various species of butterflies in a beautiful garden setting.
Apart from these, the zoo has an Aquarium, an Amphibian House, and a Safari Tour, offering a chance to see animals like lions and deer roaming in open spaces, closely resembling their natural environment.
Facilities at the Zoo
The zoo is well-equipped with visitor-friendly amenities, making it suitable for families and tourists. Some of the main facilities include:
- Battery-operated vehicles for easy transport around the zoo.
- A Children’s park.
- Rest areas with seating.
- Cafeterias serving refreshments.
- A Zoo Education Center, where educational programs and wildlife films are screened.
- Walking trails for those who wish to explore on foot.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Vandalur Zoo is during the cooler months between November and February. During this period, the weather in Chennai is pleasant, making it easier to explore the park. Visiting during weekdays will also help you avoid large crowds, ensuring a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
How to Reach Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Location: The zoo is located in Vandalur, about 31 kilometers from the Chennai city center.
By Road:
The zoo is well-connected by road and can be reached via public buses, taxis, and private vehicles. It lies along the NH45 (National Highway), making it easily accessible from Chennai and other nearby cities.
Local Buses: Numerous buses operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) ply between various parts of Chennai and the zoo. Bus numbers V18, V19, and 500 are some of the direct routes from different areas of the city.
Taxis and Auto-rickshaws: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are widely available in Chennai and can be hired for the trip to Vandalur Zoo. App-based cab services like Ola and Uber also operate in the city and offer convenient transportation options to the zoo.
By Train:
The Chennai Suburban Railway is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach the zoo. The nearest railway station is Vandalur Railway Station, located just 1.5 km from the zoo. Trains on the Chengalpattu – Chennai Beach route regularly stop at this station, providing easy access for visitors.
Another option is to take a train to Tambaram Railway Station, which is a major hub and located about 10 km from the zoo. From Tambaram, you can hire a taxi or board a bus to reach the zoo.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, located approximately 15 km from Vandalur Zoo. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transport to reach the zoo.
Entry Fees and Timings
- Timings: The zoo is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Tuesdays,
- Entry Fees:Adults: 90, Children: 50 , Battery-operated vehicle tour: 50 per person
