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Kochi is the commercial capital of Kerala. It is fueled by various attractions that meet most national and international expectations. From the historical Fort Kochi to the busy markets and the silent backwaters, Kochi provides a diverse experience for visiting tourists. Among the various places tourists visit in this city, its zoos in Kochi are popular among tourists as they are incredibly diverse and house much of Kerala’s wildlife. These zoos will offer an excellent opportunity to learn about and appreciate the state’s natural wonders.
Top 4 Zoos To Visit In Kochi
Discover the top four zoos to visit in Kochi, featuring diverse wildlife, lush environments, and unique experiences perfect for family outings and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
1. Kodanad Elephant Training Centre
Photo: Shijan Kaakkara / Wikimedia Commons
Among the few elephant training centres in the country, Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is a haven for all elephant enthusiasts. Situated on the bank of the Periyar River, this zoo in Kochi is home to a few elephants trained for various purposes. Some of the main activities conducted here include watching the training sessions of these elephants and interacting with them as instructed by the mahouts. There is also a small wildlife park containing deer and other wildlife. It was formerly the biggest elephant training centre in Kerala, capturing and training elephants from the surrounding forests till this practice was banned in the 1970s.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 – ₹ 50
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kochi At Night
2. Haritha Bio Park
Photo: bigworldinalens / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Another famous zoo among the top zoos to visit in Kochi is the Haritha Bio Park. It showcases the variety of wildlife in Kerala well. This vibrant zoo presents a great collection of birds, mammals, and reptiles, which will be very inviting to any nature lover. From varieties of deer that will dash about gracefully to naughty pranks by monkeys to chirping birds, there’s plenty on view here. It has a beautiful butterfly and medicinal plant garden. Being the newest addition within the Kochi Zoo arena, Haritha Bio Park has become one of the best getaways for people who want to experience some of Kerala’s wildlife milestones at close range.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Best time to visit: October to February
3. Abhayaranyam
Photo: Path Slopu / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Abhayaranyam is a relatively new animal shelter and mini zoo that opened in 2011 as part of Kerala’s state government’s ecotourism project. This zoo in Kochi was established to rehabilitate the growing number of animals at the nearby Kodanad Elephant Training Centre, located close to Kaprikkad village. The area stretches over 123 hectares, and Abhayaranyam now shelters six elephants and over 300 deer, among other animals. Other facilities at the centre include a veterinary hospital, mortuary, and water supply plant.
Timings: 8 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30 – ₹100
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Suggested Read: Waterfalls In Kochi
4. PQ Exotic Birds Park
Photo: Jamshed Ahmad / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The PQ Exotic Bird Park is a nature haven for all enthusiasts of birds and nature, featuring several exotic bird species in natural surroundings. Surrounded by greenery, the PQ bird palets people to get close to birds’ colours, sounds, and behaviours worldwide. One of the significant highlights of this bird park among the zoos in Kochi is that it is oriented toward conservation and education, emphasising avian biodiversity. For those keen on bird watching or a different type of educational time out, PQ Exotic Bird Park offers excellent interest to viewers of all ages.
Timings: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹150 – ₹200
Best Time To Visit: September to April
Suggested Read: Water Sports In Kochi
These are just a handful of the numerous zoos in Kochi that one must visit. Each one is equally special and has ample things to teach about the wildlife variations in Kerala. While visiting the zoos, always respect these animals and adhere to the rules taught within the zoo’s boundaries. The feeding or familiarisation with the animals is to be done with the guidance of the zoo staff. All these zoos collectively offer an excellent opportunity to realise the vast wildlife diversity of Kerala. It is the nature lovers or the ones who want to spend a beautiful day out, and these zoos are sure to leave them enchanted.
Cover Photo: Fsquares / Wikimedia Commons
