The majority of the tourists that visit Tirupati have the primary purpose of visiting the Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple on a pilgrimage. While that is undoubtedly the highlight of the visit, Tirupati is also home to numerous other experiences, its rich biodiversity being one of them. The city is home to many different wildlife species, including birds and is surrounded by thick woods, the Tirumala Hills, and a lot of greenery. In Tirupati, there are a few well-known zoos that are well worth exploring and visiting on your next vacation. Thus, if you’re planning a holiday to Tirupati and want to try something new, think about going to one of these zoos.
How To Reach Zoos In Tirupati
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When planning your trip to Tirupati to visit one of the few zoos, the commute isn’t as complicated as you might think.
By Air: If flights are convenient for you, the nearest airport from Tirupati city is Tirupati Airport. From the airports, you will find several autos and taxis available to take you to the zoos.
By Rail: Tirupati Railway Station is your nearest railhead, so once you reach there, you can step out of the station to hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to get to the main city. There are local transportation options to take you to the zoos.
By Road: If you are driving from nearby cities, Tirupati has excellent road connectivity. Most zoos, such as Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park and Silathoranam Zoo, have clear signage and ample parking facilities.
Explore 3 Zoos In Tirupati
Home to several notable zoos and wildlife parks, Tirupati is an excellent place for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to engage with diverse animal species.
1. Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park
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The most iconic and engaging part of your visit to Tirupati is to stop and explore the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park. The zoo was established in 1987 and is spread across 22.39 sq. km, making it the biggest and one of the best zoos in Tirupati. At present, the zoo houses 1,016 animals and there are numerous bird species too. Some of the highlights of the zoo include the majestic Bengal tigers, African lions, leopards, and elephants. The park is particularly famous for its breeding programs, which focus on endangered species like the Indian elephant and the Asiatic lion. There are well-marked nature trails around the zoo, perfect for you to explore and even come across different bird species around.
Location: PO, Pudipatla, SV Zoo Rd, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517505
Timings: 8:30 AM – 4:45 PM (Closed on Tuesday)
Entry Fee: ₹70 (for adults), ₹30 (for children)
2. Tirupati Deer Park
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Another one of the popular zoos in Tirupati to add to your travel plans is the Tirupati Deer Park. This sanctuary houses different species of deer, providing the travellers an opportunity to observe these gentle creatures in a natural setting. Not just for their free-roaming deer, the park is also famous for being home to numerous bird species. Also, since they are free-roaming, the visitors have permission to feed the deer carrots and cucumbers. However, be mindful of your fingers and ensure that you aren’t doing anything to agitate them. The park also has an open space, which makes it perfect for you to unwind, relax and even enjoy a picnic experience.
Location: Tirumala Foot Trl, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517507
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: ₹10 (for children), ₹50 (for adults)
3. Silathoranam Zoo
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Often considered a hidden gem, Silathoranam Zoo is one of the famous zoos in Tirupati that you can add to your travel plans. Located amidst the Tirumala Hills, the zoo is famous for its remarkable natural rock formation, which resembles a massive arch and is believed to be a geological wonder. Beyond that, it is also home to numerous different wildlife including deer, birds, reptiles, etc. The layout of the zoo allows for close encounters with the animals while ensuring their well-being and conservation. Not only can you explore these individual habitats of the animals, but you can also learn about the ongoing conservation efforts.
Location: Silathoranam Garden, Sila Thoranam Rd, Tirumala, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh 517504
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Best Time To Visit
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Zoos in Tirupati are open and accessible throughout the year, so you can plan your visit anytime that is convenient for you. Usually, the winter months are considered the best since the weather is quite cool and pleasant during that time. During the summer months, the temperatures can soar, making it quite uncomfortable for you to explore the zoos in peace. So, plan your visit between November and March. Even the post-monsoon season between September and October is a great time.
Other Factors To Consider
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To have a great time exploring the top zoos in Tirupati, you can follow these individual tips:
- If you are visiting during peak summer months, carry water and electrolytes with you.
- Maintain a respectful distance from the animals. Do not feed them or attempt to provoke them.
- If visiting with children, consider bringing snacks, a small first aid kit, and a stroller for younger kids.
- While photography is usually permitted, avoid using flash in animal enclosures, as it can stress the animals.
- Book your Tirupati Zoo tickets online in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
- Each zoo will have its own set of guidelines for visitor behaviour. Be sure to familiarise yourself with these and adhere to them for a safe and pleasant experience.
- If you enjoy birdwatching, a pair of binoculars can enhance your experience.
Visiting the zoos in Tirupati is a pretty fun and rewarding experience, acquainting you with the rich biodiversity of the place. You can immerse yourself in the nature around you and learn about the different wildlife and bird species that thrive amidst the lush greenery of the Tirumala Hills. You can plan your trip with TripXL for the ultimate travel experience amidst the serene nature.
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