Arignar Anna Zoological Park

Commonly referred to by its shortened version, Vandalaur Zoo, this is the biggest zoological garden in India. A visit is essential if you find yourself in the nearby area.

History

The story of the zoo began in 1854, when the director of the Government Central Museum of Madras at the time decided to donate his entire collection of live animals to the museum. This caused an enormous crowd to gather at the museum due to the displays of more than three hundred animals that practically appeared overnight.

Relocation

After growing exponentially in size ever since its inception, the zoo eventually reached a point where it couldn’t expand anymore. It was then relocated to the Vandalaur Forest Reserve situated at the south-western corner of the Chennai metropolitan area, which is currently close to many 5 star hotels in Chennai from entities such as Turyaa Hotels & Resorts.

Animals

The range of animals featured is astonishing and almost nauseating. There are forty-six species of mammals, sixty-two varieties of birds, twenty-nine species of reptiles, twenty-one kinds of fish. Some of the more notable species at the zoo include barking deer, giraffes, white tigers and star tortoises.

Getting Around the Park

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous you can traverse the park on foot using any of the 15-20kms worth of paved paths scattered throughout the park. There are also various vehicles that will provide a variety of tours.

Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+