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Vizag Zoo, also known as Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, is one of the most famous and largest zoos in Andhra Pradesh. The 625-acre land on the side of the beautiful eastern ghat is home to 850 species of animals. From wild cats such as tigers and cheetahs to all sorts of birds, the zoo has a lot to offer to animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. It is a perfect place to take your children for vacation. It can be one of the most entertaining educational tours to hop on.
Location
Photo: Adityamadhav83 / Wikimedia Commons
The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, also referred to as the Vizag Zoo, is in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Because of its location in the Kambalakonda Forest range, the zoo is home to a wide variety of animal species that live in an excellent habitat. The Eastern Ghats provide a breathtaking backdrop for the zoo, which adds to its appeal. Conveniently located in the city centre, it is easily accessible from Visakhapatnam using a variety of modes of transportation.
How To Reach
Photo: Bharatshyam / Wikimedia Commons
There are various ways through which you can get to the zoo. You can take an auto-rickshaw or hire a taxi from the 12 km away Visakhapatnam Railway Station for quick travel. There are also frequent public buses heading to the zoo from the station. You have two options if you’re coming from Visakhapatnam Airport, which is located roughly 20 kilometres away from the zoo: sharing a ride or a pre-paid cab. Buses and auto rickshaws are also available from the airport. The zoo has proper signage for drivers coming from main city routes and highways.
Things To Do At Vizag Zoo
The Indira Gandhi Zoological Park is famous for its display of bengal tigers, black bears and number of birds from all around the world. Here’s what all you can explore.
1. Explore The Big Cat Enclosure
Photo: Spattadar / Wikimedia Commons
As the name suggests, the Big Cat Enclosure is the part of the zoo that displays big cats such as tigers, cheetahs, jaguars, and lions. It is the most famous attraction of the zoo. The Bengal Tigers and the White Tigers are quite popular among little children. The majestic animals are kept on spacious land that mimics their natural habitat. This gives visitors a chance to observe the wild animals in their natural habitat without the fear of them attacking.
2. Visit The Aviary Section
Photo: Siddhartha Lammata / Wikimedia Commons
The aviary section of the zoo is a must-see place. It is home to various species of birds, such as hornbills, parrots, flamingoes, peacocks, and many more. A walk through the aviary section, and you will hear sweet songs sung by various birds. You can also interact and feed them. The melodic cries of the birds, along with the multicoloured surroundings, create a serene moment and an enthralling experience. It is a place that you would regret not visiting.
3. Go To Reptile House
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Another interesting display at the zoo is the reptile house. Here you can see a diverse collection of reptiles such as iguanas, pythons, cobras, turtles, and many more. These are kept in an enclosed environment to protect the visitors. A visit to the reptile house will teach you about the habits, diets, and most importantly, conservation of these reptiles. It is an exciting yet terrifying experience for all ages. If you are afraid of snakes, you can skip this part of the tour while visiting the zoo.
4. Explore The Elephant Enclosure
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The Elephant Enclosure is home to a herd of Indian elephants. The Indian elephants are one of the most revered animals in the animal kingdom, and they are also one of the most intelligent species of elephants in the world. You can experience the day-to-day life of these gentle giants at the zoo as they take a bath, interact with each other, feed their younglings, and themselves. These elephants are extremely friendly, and humans can interact with them without any fear.\]
5. Visit The Nocturnal Animal House
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Visiting the Nocturnal Animal House is one of the most unique experiences offered at the zoo. Here visitors can see creatures such as bats, civets, owls, and slow lorises in their natural habitat. You can watch all these creepy animals and birds live in their natural habitat and engage in their nocturnal behaviour. It gives visitors a chance to see these nocturnal animals, who are excluded from most zoo experiences. Definitely a must-see attraction at Indira Gandhi Zoological Park.
Where To Stay
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Select The Park Visakhapatnam, offering modern facilities, a spa, and breathtaking sea views, for an indulgent experience close to the famous attraction. Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach is another great alternative; it has modern accommodations, a pool, and an assortment of dining choices. For those on a tight budget, Hotel Winsar Park provides comfortable lodging with standard amenities and is in a prime location for zoo trips. Sai Priya Beach Resort is an alternate affordable option which provides a laid-back vibe, beachfront location, standard amenities, and convenient access to nearby attractions.
Where To Eat
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There are many different local dining options to choose from when visiting the zoo. At Aqua, The Park Visakhapatnam serves up an opulent dining experience with a range of culinary options and incredible views of the sea. The Square Restaurant at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach offers an extensive buffet including Indian, Asian, and continental cuisine. Andhra Spice serves traditional Andhra cuisines. As an alternative, Blue Fox serves a fusion of North and South Indian cuisine. These restaurants offer delectable meals in a distinctive setting to enhance your zoo experience.
Best Time To Visit
The months of October to March are the most favourable times for visiting the zoo. The climate in Visakhapatnam is cooler and easier to tolerate during these months, with temperatures ranging from 15°C and 30°C. The weather is perfect for touring the zoo’s vast facilities and outdoor displays. It is also perfect to visit nearby attractions in Visakhapatnam.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of Trip
The average cost of a holiday to the Vizag Zoo depends on lodging, transportation, and personal preferences. For local travel inside Visakhapatnam, transportation costs need to be anticipated between ₹200 and ₹500. Train tickets from nearby towns cost between ₹400 and ₹1,500, while tickets for flights from big cities range from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000. The selection of accommodation alternatives include luxury hotels priced at ₹5,000-₹10,000 per night and budget hotels priced at ₹1,000-₹2,500 per night.
Tips For Travellers
- The zoo covers a large area, so be prepared for a lot of walking. Comfortable shoes will make your visit much more enjoyable.
- Carry a water bottle with you, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months. There are a few kiosks around the zoo, but having your own water is convenient.
- If visiting in summer, wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. During the monsoon season, bring an umbrella or raincoat.
- While there are food stalls available, packing light snacks can be handy, especially if you’re travelling with children. However, avoid feeding the animals.
- Maintain a safe distance from the enclosures, and do not disturb or attempt to feed the animals. Follow all the rules and signage to ensure your safety and that of the animals.
Vizag Zoo, or Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, is a gem of Visakhapatnam. The conservation park offers a perfect blend of education and entertainment. The place is a treasure chest of biodiversity and an excellent spot for family vacation or a day trip. From majestic Bengal tigers to gentle Indian elephants, there is so much to explore. So, book a tour with TripXL, and get to learn about the ecosystem of Indian biodiversity.
Cover Photo: Jamshed Ahmad / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
