The other common name is “Mysore Zoo” and it is one of the oldest and well maintained zoos in India.
It not only houses a wide range of animals, reptiles and birds but the garden maintained is no less than any of the botanical gardens. My grandparents referred to this place as “Khas Bangale” / Private Bungalow or the Maharajahs.
The zoo is 100 years old started by Chamarajendra Wodeyar in 1892. Now it is managed by the Zoo Authority of Karnataka. Mysore zoo is place for a fun filled outing as well as a place to learn more about the behavior of animals and birds. The zoo is sprawled over 250 acres of land including the Karanji lake.
The zoo has been successful in breeding various species of animals and rare and exotic birds in captivity. The zoo is well laid out with paths and big enclosures to house animals and birds. The enclosures are designed in such a way that the animals do not miss their natural environment.
A striking band stand is present near the Zebra enclosure, which is now used by people to finish off their picnic basket.
There is a children park with the famous concrete giant slide. The Gulgangi trees next to the children park are a favorite place for kids to collect the red gleaming gulgangi seeds.
The hippos lazing in the water and the swan enclosure offers a peak into the lives of these creatures.
Gorillas, Chimpanzees, various types of monkeys, Giraffes, Gaur, Wild Bisons, Zebras, White Deer, Nilgai, Spotted Deer, Indian and African Elephants, Bears, Porcupines, Black Bucks, Rhinoceros, Tapir are the herbivores of the zoo.
Tigers, Lions, Leapords, Black Panther, White Tiger, Otters, Jackals, and Wolves are some of the carnivores of the zoo.
Birds like Silver and Gold Peasant, Big Horn Bill, Emu, Ostrich, Flamingos, Spoon Bill, Pelican, White and Blue Peacocks, Sarus Cranes, Love Birds, Geese, Ducks, Parrots etc., are the bird life of the zoo.
Reptiles like Gadiyal, Crocodiles, Salt water crocodile, varieties of snakes are bred successfully here.
You can either walk or take the electric van to go around the zoo.
Animal Adoption Program
The animal adoption program started by the Zoo authority lets you adopt an animal for a fee. The adoptions have increased over the year. It is very easy to adopt an animal, please contact the zoo office for more information. The person who adopts will get a certificate of appreciation, a mention in the local daily newspaper (Star of Mysore) and a free pass to visit the zoo for a year. The adoption is valid for a year and can be renewed.
Place Statistics:
Type of place: Zoological Gardens
Situated: Mysore
Distance: 3 Km from Main Bus Stand
Transport: Mysore is well connected by road, rail and air. All types from Tonga to a bus are available
Facilities: Rest room and restaurants inside the gardens
Timings: 8.30am to 5.30pm on all days except Tuesday
Tickets: Adults: 25 Rs, Child (5 to 10 yrs): 10 Rs, Camera: Still – 10 Rs, Video – 150 Rs
