Thiruvananthapuram Zoological Park: A Journey into Asia’s Oldest Wildlife Sanctuary

Nestled in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala’s capital, the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo (also known as Trivandrum Zoo) stands as one of Asia’s oldest zoos, offering a rich experience of wildlife, history, and conservation. Spanning 55 acres of lush greenery, the zoo is a sanctuary for over 1000 animals, including rare species from around the world. A visit to this historic park is not only an adventure into nature but also a lesson in the importance of preserving wildlife for future generations.

Let’s take a closer look at the history, highlights, and wildlife that make the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo a must-visit destination.

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History and Legacy of the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

The zoo was established by Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma in 1857 as a menagerie, housing exotic animals like Royal Bengal tigers, deer, and panthers for the royal family. Initially designed for recreational purposes, the zoo underwent significant transformations over the years. Today, it stands as a beacon of conservation, with the goal of preserving endangered species and educating visitors on the importance of wildlife protection.

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Wildlife and Attractions at the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

1. Diverse Animal Species

Home to 1025 animals from 98 species, the zoo boasts a rich collection of both indigenous and exotic wildlife. You can find:

• Indigenous Species: Asiatic Lions, Royal Bengal Tigers, Indian Rhinoceros, and the Lion-Tailed Macaque.

• African Species: Giraffes, Hippos, Zebras, and Cape Buffalos.

• Reptile House: With venomous and non-venomous snakes, including the gifted Anacondas from the Sri Lankan Dehiwala Zoo.

The zoo also features 93 species of birds, including migratory birds such as Pelicans, Storks, and Herons, who make the natural pond a beautiful home.

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2. Conservation Efforts

While originally established as a recreational space, the zoo now plays a crucial role in conservation and protection. It houses several endangered species and is actively involved in conservation programs for species such as the Lion-Tailed Macaque. The zoo also participates in breeding programs for rare and endangered animals and provides care for orphaned wildlife.

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3. Natural Environments and Biodiversity

With its lush greenery, lakes, and woodlands, the zoo provides a natural habitat for its animals. Visitors can witness animals in settings that mimic their native environments. The surroundings are designed to give the animals the most comfortable and enriching conditions possible, which aligns with the zoo's commitment to conservation.

Additionally, the zoo features over 100 species of plants, both exotic and indigenous, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

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Educational Role of the Zoo

The Thiruvananthapuram Zoological Park is not just a place to see animals; it’s a critical educational tool for raising awareness about wildlife conservation. With over 14 lakh visitors annually, the zoo is a popular destination for schools, wildlife enthusiasts, and families. The zoo's exhibits aim to educate visitors about the importance of preserving nature and the role each species plays in the ecosystem.

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Visiting the Thiruvananthapuram Zoo: Practical Information

Entry Fees:

The zoo's entry fees are quite affordable for everyone:

• Adults: ₹20

• Children: ₹10

Timings:

The zoo is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, except on national holidays.

Accessibility:

The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo is centrally located and easily accessible:

• By Bus: The Thampanoor Bus Stand is about 3 km away from the zoo.

• By Train: The Thampanoor Railway Station is just 3 km from the zoo.

• By Flight: The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is approximately 5.5 km away.

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Top FAQs About Thiruvananthapuram Zoo

Q1: What are the highlights of Thiruvananthapuram Zoo?
The zoo is known for its historic significance, diverse wildlife including Asiatic lions, Royal Bengal tigers, and endangered species, as well as its snake farm and vibrant aviary.

Q2: How do I reach Thiruvananthapuram Zoo?
The zoo is easily accessible by bus, train, or flight. It is about 3 km from Thampanoor Bus Stand and Thampanoor Railway Station.

Q3: What animals can I see at Thiruvananthapuram Zoo?
You can see Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Lions, African Giraffes, Hippos, and a variety of birds, reptiles, and other species.

Q4: Does the zoo have any special conservation programs?
Yes, the zoo is involved in breeding programs for endangered species like the Lion-Tailed Macaque and provides care for orphaned animals.

Q5: What is the best time to visit the zoo?
The best time to visit is between November to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring.

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Conclusion

The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo, a historical and educational sanctuary, is more than just a zoo – it’s a hub of conservation, a haven for endangered species, and an oasis of nature within Kerala’s bustling capital. Whether you're a wildlife lover, an educational traveler, or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, this oldest zoo in Asia offers something for everyone. It’s a place where both nature and history intertwine, offering a unique experience that is both informative and awe-inspiring.

So, make sure to visit this exceptional wildlife haven the next time you are in Thiruvananthapuram!

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Idukki Kerala

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary Idukki Kerala 

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, (CWS), is located 18 km north of Marayoor on SH 17 in the Marayoor and Kanthalloor Panchayats of Devikulam Taluk in the Idukki district of Kerala state in South India. It is one of twelve Wildlife Sanctuaries among the Protected areas of Kerala.

It is under the jurisdiction of and contiguous with Eravikulam National Park to the south. Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary is to the north and Kodaikanal Wildlife Sanctuary is to the east. It forms an integral part of the 1,187 km2 (458 sq mi) block of protected forests straddling the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border in the Annamalai Hills. The Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-Cluster, including all of Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site

The altitude ranges from 400 meters (1,300 ft) at east end of the Chinnar River to 2,522 meters (8,274 ft) at Kumarikal Malai peak. Other major peaks in the sanctuary are Nandala Malai 2,372 meters (7,782 ft), Kottakombu malai (2,144 meters (7,034 ft)), Vellaikal malai (1,863 meters (6,112 ft)) and Viriyoottu malai 1,845 meters (6,053 ft). In contrast, Anamudi peak 2,695 metres (8,842 ft), located 23 kilometers (14 mi) away in the adjacent Eravikulam National Park, is the highest peak in South India.

The Chinnar River and Pambar rivers are the major perennial water resources in the sanctuary. The Chinnar originates near Kumarikal Malai, follows the interstate boundary along the northwest edge of the sanctuary for 18 km and becomes the Amaravati River in Tamil Nadu.

The Pambar River originates in the Anaimudi Hills and is joined by seasonal rivulets and a few perennial streams originating from sholas in the upper reaches. It traverses the Turner’s Valley in Eravikulam National Park and flows down into the Sanctuary through the Taliar Valley between Kanthalloor and Marayoor Villages and eastwards through the sanctuary. It joins the Chinnar river at Koottar. The spectacular Thoovanam water falls lie deep within the Sanctuary on the Pambar River. This breathtaking cascade is a major tourist attraction. The Chinnar, Pambar, Kabani and Bhavani are the only rivers of the 44 in Kerala that flow eastwards.

There are 11 tribal settlements inside the Chinnar WLS, each is well demarcated by temporary stone walls. The main inhabitants are Muthuvas and Pulayars. Cultivation of maize, ragi and lemongrass is practiced in the settlements. The Mudhuvas carry out small scale ganja cultivation for their religious purposes.

34 species of Mammals live here, including many Panthers and Spotted deer, 50 -60 Indian Elephants, Gaur, Tigers, Sambar Deer, Common langur, Bonnet Macaque, Hanuman monkey, threatened Nilgiri Tahr, vulnerable Rusty-spotted Cats and about 240 of the only vulnerable Grizzled Giant Squirrels in Kerala. 245 species of birds including Yellow-throated Bulbuls. 52 species of reptiles including 29 species of snakes, Indian Star Tortoise and the largest population of vulnerable Mugger Crocodiles in Kerala live in the Sanctuary. Most common of the 42 species of fishes observed in the Chinnar and Pambar rivers are Garra mullya minnows, River-carp baril, Giant Danio and the endangered hill stream game fish Deccan Mahseer. 22 amphibian species live in the Sanctuary. There are 156 species of butterflies.

There are 965 species of flowering plants in the sanctuary Ecoregions of the sanctuary comprise mostly grassland and wet grasslands vegetation and some South Western Ghats montane rain forests and high shola at the higher western elevations. South Western Ghats moist deciduous forestss at mid elevations give way to dry deciduous forests and thorny scrub forests in the lower dryer eastern edges of the valley. The major Xerophyticspecies in the throny scrub forests are Acacia arabica, Acacia leucofolia, Acacia concinna, Prosporis juliflora, and Opuntia stricta.

The Marayoor Sandalwood forest is located here.

Major attractions include:
Grizzled Giant Squirrel: The riverine forests along with Chinnar and Pambar support a large number of highly endangered Grizzled Giant Squirrels. The sanctuary plays host to the second largest population of Grizzled Giant Squirrels in the world.

Thoovanam Waterfalls: Deep within the sanctuary, the spectacular Thoovanam waterfall is located. The river Pambar flows eastwards through the sanctuary and plummets down from a great height on the river Chinnar. Wildlife Department permit tourists to visit the falls as part of wildlife tourism.

Watch Tower: Standing on the lofty watchtower, one can have a panoramic view of the entire park and the wildlife beauties, adjoining jungles in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu and also the magnificent mountains far away.

Tourists can enjoy the natural walk along the Chinnar and Pamber river banks. They can also find the grizzled giant squirrel. This is an amazing place for the trekkers also. They can enjoy the scenic beauty of the nature by moving towards Thooyanam Waterfalls. Tourists can enjoy camping here.

Eco-tourism is promoted and organized jointly by the Forest Department and the Eco Development Committees (EDCs) of the local tribal communities, the objective is to empower latter and involve them in the conservation of the forest ecosystem.

Trek paths most commonly used are the Chinnar – Chullipetty and Chinnar – Koottar. Trekking to the Dolmens, the megalithic burial sites of tribal communities in Alampatti, can be arranged. Daytime sighting of crocodiles and boars is possible while hiking along the riverside. The trail will also take you to the enchanting Thoovanam falls and to the watchtower in Jellimalai.
Chinar watchtower

The lofty Chinnar Watch Tower has a panoramic view of the entire sanctuary, and beyond to the jungles of Tamil Nadu to the east and the majestic hills of the Western Ghats in all directions. The watch tower is accessible to the public with the permission of the forest department. The watchtower is a 20-minute walk from the Chinnar check post.