Vandalur Zoo, also known as Arignar Anna Zoological Park, is one of the most popular and largest zoological parks in India. Vandalur Zoo is situated on the outskirts of Chennai and is an ideal place to visit for families, nature enthusiasts, wildlife enthusiasts, as well as students. Covering an extensive area, Vandalur Zoo provides an opportunity to see various species of animals in their natural habitats as well as understand wildlife conservation. This article will provide all the information related to Vandalur Zoo ticket price, its timing, tips and much more.
About Vandalur Zoo
Founded in the year 1855, Arignar Anna Zoological Park has an extent of nearly 602 hectares (1,490 acres), thus being one of the largest zoological parks in South Asia. The park is home to varied taxa such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.
The zoo features open moat enclosures to provide ample natural habitats for the animals without any constraints of enclosures or cages. Vandalur Zoo is also a significant participant in breeding, rescue, and conservation learning initiatives related to wildlife.
Vandalur Zoo Timing
Visitors should plan their trip according to the official zoo timings:
| Details | Timing |
|---|---|
| Opening Time | 9:00 AM |
| Closing Time | 5:00 PM |
| Last Entry | Around 4:30 PM |
| Weekly Holiday | Tuesday |
The zoo remains closed every Tuesday, even on public holidays.
Vandalur Zoo Ticket Price
Before planning your visit, it is important to know the latest Vandalur Zoo ticket prices, which are affordable and suitable for visitors of all age groups. The entry fee is collected separately from safari rides and internal zoo vehicles.
Entry Ticket Prices
| Visitor Category | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (Above 12 Years) | ₹200 |
| Children (5–12 Years) | ₹50 |
| Children Below 5 Years | Free |
| Government School Students | ₹20 |
| Government School Teachers | ₹20 |
| Differently-Abled Visitors | Free |
Zoo Ride & Safari Charges
Vandalur Zoo is very large, so visitors can opt for internal transport rides and safari experiences to explore the park comfortably.
Zoo Round Vehicle Charges
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | ₹150 |
| Children (5–12 years) | ₹50 |
These vehicles take visitors around major animal enclosures and help save time and energy.
Safari Ride Charges
Safari rides allow visitors to view animals in a more natural environment from inside protected vehicles.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | ₹150 |
| Children (5–12 years) | ₹30 |
Best Time to Visit Vandalur Zoo
The ideal time for visiting the Vandalur Zoo would be during the winter season, from November to February, which is quite pleasant, and the animals are also more active during that time.
- Best Time of Day: Early morning (9:00 AM – 11:30 AM)
- Avoid: Hot summer afternoons, in particular between April and June
Morning visits ensure a more enjoyable wildlife sightseeing option, while there is sufficient time to walk through the vast zoo.
Vandalur Zoo location and address
Location: Vandalur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Official Address:
Arignar Anna Zoological Park,
GST Road, Vandalur,
Chennai – 600048, Tamil Nadu, India
The zoo is situated approximately 30 kilometers away from the city center of Chennai and is easily accessible by road and train.
Location Map for Vandalur Zoo
Major Attractions of Vandalur Zoo
Vandalur Zoo has many thrilling activities for visitors:
- Lion Safari & Deer Safari – See the animals roaming in their natural habitat
- White Tiger & Bengal Tiger Enclosures
- Elephant
- Giraffe & Zebra Enc
- Bird Aviary: It contains various colorful and beautiful birds.
- Reptile House: Contains Snakes, Crocodiles, and T
- Butterfly Park: An oasis of peace with all kinds of butterflies
- Children’s Play Area
- Zoo Ride Vehicles: Ideal for exploring the huge area covered in the zoo.
Visitor Tips for Vandalur Zoo
To enjoy your visit smoothly, keep these tips in mind:
- Wear comfortable footwear as walking is involved
- Carry water bottles, caps, and sunscreen
- Visit early to avoid crowds and heat
- Book safari and zoo rides in advance if possible
- Follow zoo rules and do not feed animals
- Avoid plastic items inside the zoo premises
How to Reach Vandalur Zoo
The Vandalur Zoo can be reached with ease via various means of transportation:
By Road
- Well connected by GST Road (NH-45)
- Buses are available from Chennai Central, Tambaram, and CMBT
By Train
- Nearest railway station is Vandalur Railway Station
- The zoo is only a quick drive from the station via auto or taxi.
By Cab / Auto
- Taxis and autos are readily accessible from any corner of Chennai
Facilities Available Inside Vandalur Zoo
The zoo provides several facilities to ensure visitor comfort:
- Drinking water facilities
- Clean restrooms
- Wheelchairs for differently-abled visitors
- Food stalls and snack counters
- Battery-operated zoo vehicles
- Parking area for all types of vehicles
- First-aid and medical assistance
Vandalur Zoo Nearby Attractions
If you do happen to have some extra time, you can visit the following nearby places:
- Tambaram – Shopping and Local Food
- Perungalathur – Famous for temples and restaurants
- Chennai Crocodile Bank (a little farther away)
- Muttukadu Backwaters
- Mahabalipuram
Conclusion
The Vandalur Zoo is a tourist destination and an entry point to wildlife and conservation ideas as well. The presence of highly green spaces, different species of wildlife, and safari zones, along with an environment that is very conducive to families, ensures that it is a great place to go to for an experience for anyone who goes to Chennai, whether local or a tourist.
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