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Jungle safari in Chennai offers a unique opportunity for nature lovers and adventure seekers to explore the region’s diverse flora and fauna. This bustling metropolis, known for its urban life, is also home to many wildlife sanctuaries and dense forests that provide an escape from the city’s hustle. Whether you’re with family, friends, or travelling solo, these safaris promise an exciting adventure. Witness captivating wildlife and immerse yourself in nature, all just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant city!
Jungle Safari In Chennai: Top Wildlife Sanctuaries To Visit
Discover the best jungle safari experiences in and around Chennai. Enjoy thrilling encounters with wildlife and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
1. Guindy National Park
Photo: Bagavath G / Wikimedia Commons
Guindy National Park, located within Chennai’s city limits, offers a unique jungle safari in Chennai for nature enthusiasts. This hidden gem is home to diverse wildlife, including blackbucks, spotted deer, and over 130 species of birds, making it an excellent spot for urban wildlife exploration. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful escape into nature while staying close to the bustling metropolis, perfect for a quick yet thrilling adventure.
Location: Guindy, Chennai
Average Cost: Free entry; safari costs vary
Distance From Chennai Airport: 11.3 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 11.4 km
Suggested Read: Top Zoos In Chennai For A Wildlife Retreat
2. Arignar Anna Zoological Park
Photo: Jeffaniel Aashish / Wikimedia Commons
Arignar Anna Zoological Park, popularly known as Vandalur Zoo, is a top destination for a jungle safari in Chennai. As one of the largest zoos in South Asia, it offers a thrilling safari experience through its well-preserved habitats, home to a variety of animals like lions, tigers, and elephants. The park provides an immersive wildlife adventure for visitors looking to explore Chennai’s natural wonders.
Location: Vandalur, Chennai
Average Cost: ₹50 (Adults), ₹30 (Children)
Distance From Chennai Airport: 16.6 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 35 km
3. Nanmangalam Reserve Forest
Photo: Manoj K / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nanmangalam Reserve Forest, located on the outskirts of Chennai, is a peaceful retreat perfect for a jungle safari in Chennai. Renowned for its rich biodiversity and excellent birdwatching opportunities, this serene forest offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts. With its lush greenery and peaceful trails, it provides an ideal getaway for those looking to unwind and explore the natural beauty away from the city’s hustle.
Location: Medavakkam, Chennai
Average Cost: Free entry
Distance From Chennai Airport: 15.1 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 27.4 km
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Chennai With Friends For A Memorable Vacation
4. Muttukadu Boat House
Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves. / Wikimedia Commons
While primarily known for its boating activities, Muttukadu also offers a unique jungle safari in Chennai through its boat safaris on the backwaters. This tranquil experience allows you to explore coastal wildlife from a different perspective. As you glide along the waters, you can spot various bird species and soak in the serene surroundings, making it a peaceful yet adventurous escape close to the city.
Location: Muttukadu, Chennai
Average Cost: ₹200 for boat rides
Distance From Chennai Airport: 35.6 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 36.8 km
5. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
Photo: Balajijagadesh / Wikimedia Commons
This famous bird sanctuary is a top destination for a jungle safari in Chennai, especially for bird enthusiasts. Known for its diverse range of migratory birds, the best time to visit is between November and March. A guided safari offers visitors the chance to explore the sanctuary’s beautiful landscapes while observing a variety of bird species in their natural habitat, making it a memorable wildlife experience.
Location: Vedanthangal, near Chengalpattu
Average Cost: ₹20 (entry fee)
Distance From Chennai Airport: 66.2 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 87.3 km
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Chennai In One Day
6. Pulicat Lake
Photo: P Jeganathan / Wikimedia Commons
Pulicat Lake, India’s second-largest brackish water lagoon, offers a serene jungle safari in Chennai for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. This peaceful destination, surrounded by dense greenery, provides a safari-like experience where you can witness migratory birds such as flamingos and pelicans. Just a short drive from the city, it’s the perfect spot for wildlife viewing and a refreshing escape into nature’s tranquillity.
Location: Pulicat, Tamil Nadu
Average Cost: Free entry; boat safari prices vary
Distance From Chennai Airport: 67.5 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 44.8 km
7. Madras Crocodile Bank
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
The Madras Crocodile Bank, a famous reptile zoo and conservation centre, offers a safari-like experience where visitors can observe various crocodile species in naturalistic enclosures. While primarily focused on crocodiles, this unique attraction also provides an educational experience, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Located near Chennai, it’s a perfect addition to any wildlife adventure, offering both excitement and insight into reptile conservation.
Location: East Coast Road, Chennai
Average Cost: ₹60 (Adults), ₹30 (Children)
Distance From Chennai Airport: 41.5 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 42.6 km
Suggested Read: Exciting Road Trips From Chennai For The Adventurous Explorer In You
5 Places For Jungle Safari Near Chennai
1. Mudumalai National Park
Photo: Priyadharshan Saba / Unsplash
Nestled in the scenic Western Ghats, Mudumalai National Park is one of the most scenic national parks in Tamil Nadu. It is a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Bounty in nature, the park is suffused with lush green vegetation and dense forests. Home to majestic Bengal tigers, Indian leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and several species of deer, Mudumalai National Park boasts a variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers can also peacocks, Malabar trogons, hornbills, and over 250 other bird species here.
Location: Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu
Average Cost: ₹30 for Indians and ₹350 for foreigners
Distance From Chennai Airport: 570 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 560 km
2. Mukurthi National Park
Photo: Syed Ali / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Mukurthi National Park, located in the picturesque Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, is an ideal destination for nature admirers and wildlife lovers. Spread over 78.46 square kilometres, the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and forms an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Here, you can a variety of animals including spot leopards, Indian elephants, wild boars, and barking deer and catch a glimpse of a Nilgiri flycatcher and laughing thrush. The park’s lush landscapes make it an ideal destination for travellers looking for a peaceful retreat.
Location: Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu
Average Cost: ₹15 for Indians and ₹200 for foreigners
Distance From Chennai Airport: 550 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 540 km
Suggested Read: Places Near Chennai For Weekend Getaways
3. Vallanadu Sanctuary
Photo: Hans Veth / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Vallanadu Sanctuary is a hidden gem nestled in the Thoothukudi district of Tamil Nadu. Offering one of the best jungle safaris in Chennai, this place is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Spanning approximately 16.41 square kilometres, this sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Here, you can catch glimpses of blackbucks, spotted deer, jackals, wild boars, and several species of birds and reptiles. Abundant in nature, Vallanadu Sanctuary offers a serene retreat in the lap of nature.
Location: Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu
Average Cost: Free, jungle safari is at additional cost
Distance From Chennai Airport: 610 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 600 km
4. Mundanthurai Sanctuary
Photo: David Heiling / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Mundanthurai Sanctuary, nestled in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu, is an offbeat jewel that offers a serene retreat into South India’s rich natural heritage. Encompassing lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful ambience, the sanctuary is an ideal destination for travellers seeking solitude. In addition to thrilling jungle safaris and scenic nature walks, Mundanthurai Sanctuary also offers trekking opportunities to adventure junkies. You can trek through the rugged terrains and satiate your adrenaline pump. The undulating terrains here are a habitat for several species including leopards, elephants, spotted deer, and a myriad of birds.
Location: Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu
Average Cost: ₹20 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners
Distance From Chennai Airport: 650 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 640 km
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Chennai With Family
5. Srivilliputhur Sanctuary
Photo: Zdeněk Macháček / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
For travellers seeking an offbeat adventure away from crowded tourist spots, Srivilliputhur Sanctuary offers a tranquil escape. Here, you can catch glimpses of colourful birds flitting among the trees and elusive small mammals and reptiles hiding in the verdant grounds. Whether you’re an avid wildlife photographer, a birdwatcher, or simply someone who enjoys the calm of a forest retreat, this sanctuary is a hidden haven waiting to be discovered.
Location: Virudhunagar district, Tamil Nadu
Average Cost: ₹20 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners
Distance From Chennai Airport: 570 km
Distance From Chennai Central Railway Station: 560 km
A jungle safari in Chennai and its surrounding areas offers a thrilling escape into nature, showcasing the region’s rich wildlife and diverse ecosystems. With a variety of options available, from urban parks to expansive reserves, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking to experience the great outdoors, these safaris provide a unique adventure just a short distance from the city. Book your trip to Chennai to explore the wildlife hidden in the bustling metropolis with TripXL today!
Cover Photo: Ashishmahaur / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
