Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens (MYSORE ZOO)

HISTORY

The Mysore Zoo is officially known as the Chamarajendra Zoological garden, in respect of Sri Chamarajendra Wodeyar Bahadur, the last ruling Maharaja of Mysore. When he established the zoo in 1892, it occupied 10 acres. Initially designed for private menagerie, the zoo opened to the public in 1920. The official zoo control was passed on from the Royal Kingdom to the Horticulture Department in 1948 and later to the Forest Department in 1972. Now the zoo is spread over an area of 157 acres with a wide range of species of plants, birds and animals. 

FLORA AND FAUNA 

From big to small, this zoo in Mysore hosts various cat species, including the rare and majestic Bengal and White Tigers. The exhibits feature a range of animals, from elephants and chimpanzees to penguins and crocodiles. The Mysore zoo safeguards some of the rarest species on the planet, including the red kangaroos, Indian lions, Indian Rhinoceros, and Malabar Civet. As you stroll through the well-maintained walkways, you can see tall giraffes munching on leaves, playful leopard cubs, and hippopotami taking short naps.

The Karanji Lake park, one of the most extensive aviaries, hosts hundreds of bird species, with the magnificent White Peacock taking the spotlight. The 87 species of words, including the 12 migratory species, have made this vast canopy cover their habitat.

The primate house is home to monkeys, baboons, langurs, and macaques. With carefully designed enclosures that mimic the natural habitat of each species, the zoo provides a naturalistic environment for the animals to live in.  

With its colourful flower beds, the butterfly garden is a unique attraction. With 35 species of exotic ornamental plants and 85 species of trees spread across the zoo, it showcases its rich flora. 

PLAN YOUR VISIT

If you choose to walk, it will take over three hours to explore the entire zoo. Bird watchers should come in the morning since they are most active. The animals stay hidden during the afternoons, especially when it’s summer. So the best time to visit the Mysore Zoo is before 11:30 am Or after 3 pm. Book your tickets online to avoid the hassle. 

NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

 The zoo, located just 3km from the main parts of the city, has other famous tourist spots in the vicinity.

• Mysore Palace: Situated within 3km, it is a must-visit for its ancient architecture and heritage.
• Chamundi hills: A temple of great antiqueness of over 1,000 years from where one can enjoy a bird’s eye view of Mysore is only 10 km away.
• Brindavan Gardens: The famous garden is a tourist’s favorite for its serene beauty and the light and fountain show at night.