Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens — Attraction in Karnataka

Mysore Zoo, officially named Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, is one of India’s oldest and most renowned zoos, located in Mysuru, Karnataka. Established in 1892 by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar X, it spans approximately 157-245 acres (sources vary) and is situated near Mysore Palace, about 2-3 km from the city center. It’s a major tourist attraction, drawing over 3 million visitors annually due to its diverse wildlife, lush greenery, and conservation efforts. Key Features • History: Initially a private royal menagerie called the “Palace Zoo,” it opened to the public in 1920. It was expanded over time, with significant contributions from German landscaper G.H. Krumbiegel and Australian superintendent Mr. Hugh. It was renamed in 1909 to honor its founder and transferred to the Zoo Authority of Karnataka in 1979. • Animals: The zoo houses over 1,450 specimens across 168 species from more than 25 countries. Notable animals include: • Primates: Gorilla (only zoo in India to have one), chimpanzees, orangutans, lion-tailed macaques, baboons, and lemurs. • Big Cats: Tigers (including white tigers), lions, cheetahs, jaguars, and leopards. • Large Mammals: African and Indian rhinos (all three species: white, black, and Indian), elephants (10, more than any other Indian zoo), giraffes, zebras, and hippos. • Reptiles: Anacondas, king cobras, Indian cobras, crocodiles, and iguanas. • Birds: Over 40 avian species, including flamingos, pelicans, sarus cranes, macaws, hornbills, and flightless birds like emus and ostriches. • Flora: The zoo features 35 species of exotic ornamental plants and 85 species of trees, enhancing its scenic beauty. • Karanji Lake: Integrated into the zoo in 1976, this lake serves as a bird sanctuary, attracting migratory birds and adding to the zoo’s biodiversity. • Conservation: Mysore Zoo is a leader in breeding endangered species, including Indian gaur, dholes, grey wolves, and lion-tailed macaques. It performed the world’s first cesarean section on an elephant. The zoo also runs an adoption program, allowing visitors to sponsor animals, supporting their care and conservation efforts. Visitor Information • Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, except Tuesdays (weekly holiday). Best visiting times are early morning (before 11 AM) or late afternoon (after 3 PM) when animals are most active. • Entry Fees (as of recent sources, may vary): • Weekdays: Adults ₹50-100, Children (5-12 years) ₹20-50, Senior Citizens ₹90. • Weekends/Holidays: Adults ₹60-180, Children ₹30-100, Senior Citizens ₹100. • Free for children under 5. • Camera Fees: Still camera ₹20, video camera ₹150. • Battery-Operated Vehicle: ₹150 (adults), ₹90 (children/seniors on weekdays),...

Located in the heart of Mysuru, the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, commonly known as Mysuru Zoo, stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage and dedication to wildlife conservation. Established in 1892 by Maharaja Chamarajendra Wadiyar, this sprawling 157-acre zoo is one of the oldest and most renowned zoological gardens in India.

The Mysuru Zoo is home to an impressive array of over 149 species of animals, including both native and exotic species. Visitors can witness majestic creatures like lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes, as well as lesser-known animals such as lemurs, tapirs, and various reptiles. The zoo's well-maintained enclosures are designed to mimic the natural habitats of these animals, ensuring their comfort and well-being.

What sets Mysuru Zoo apart is its commitment to conservation and education. The zoo actively participates in breeding programs for endangered species, contributing to global efforts to preserve biodiversity. Additionally, the zoo offers educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of wildlife and the importance of conservation.

The zoo's layout is thoughtfully designed, with well-marked paths and informative signboards that guide visitors through the various exhibits. The lush greenery and serene environment make it a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll, and the presence of benches and shaded areas provide ample opportunities for rest and relaxation.

One of the highlights of a visit to Mysuru Zoo is the opportunity to observe the animals up close. The zoo's design allows for unobstructed views of the enclosures, making it an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts. The battery-operated vehicles available for rent offer a convenient way to explore the zoo, especially for families with young children or elderly visitors.

The zoo also boasts several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. A well-stocked food court offers a variety of snacks and beverages, while the souvenir shop provides an array of keepsakes to remember your visit. The zoo's library is a treasure trove of information for those interested in learning more about the animals and the zoo's history.

In my opinion, Mysuru Zoo is an attractive place to visit for anyone with an interest in wildlife and nature. The combination of its rich history, diverse animal collection, and commitment to conservation makes it a must-visit destination in Mysuru. Whether you're a local resident or a tourist, a visit to this zoo is sure to be a memorable and...

A Must-Visit Destination in Mysore – Truly Impressive!

Mysore Zoo, officially known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, is one of the best and most well-maintained zoos I’ve ever visited. It’s a must-visit attraction if you’re in Mysore — whether you’re a solo traveler, visiting with family, or exploring with kids, there’s something for everyone here.

The zoo is beautifully laid out and incredibly clean. What stood out to me immediately was how spacious and natural the enclosures are — they’ve done a fantastic job of making the environment as close to the animals’ natural habitats as possible. It doesn’t feel cramped or artificial like many other zoos. You can tell that animal welfare is a top priority here.

There is an impressive variety of animals from across the world, including elephants, tigers, lions, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, leopards, and a wide range of birds and reptiles. The star attraction for me was the white tiger and the majestic giraffes. Watching them up close in such a well-designed environment was an unforgettable experience.

The pathways are wide, shaded by trees, and easy to navigate — perfect for a long, leisurely stroll. There are benches placed throughout if you want to take a break, and plenty of signage with interesting information about the animals. The entire experience is educational as well as entertaining.

I also appreciated how eco-friendly the zoo is. Plastic is strictly prohibited, and they encourage visitors to maintain cleanliness. The use of battery-operated vehicles for those who can’t walk the full distance is a thoughtful touch.

There are clean restrooms, a small cafeteria, and drinking water facilities at regular intervals. Everything is well organized, and the staff is courteous and helpful.

The entry ticket is reasonably priced, especially considering the scale and quality of the experience. You can easily spend 2–3 hours here, and it’s worth every minute.

Overall, Mysore Zoo is not just a tourist spot but a place that inspires respect for wildlife and conservation. It’s clear that the management has put in a lot of effort to make it both enjoyable and responsible. I walked away feeling informed, entertained, and truly impressed.

Highly recommended for all age groups — don’t miss it...