A multitude of wonders
Prepare to be amazed as you step into Arignar Anna Zoo Park, also known as Vandalur Zoo. Immerse yourself in nature as you encounter over 1,500 animals belonging to 46 species such as White Tigers, Lions, Leopards and majestic elephants that call Vandalur Zoo home! Conservation efforts thrive here too.
At Arignar Anna Zoo, experience the world's only Amphibian Centre showcasing an exquisite collection of amphibians. Admire Indian tree frogs, common Indian toads, Indian bullfrogs, cricket frogs, and pond frogs - among many others! - that await discovery here - an extraordinary exhibit perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking unique encounters!
Start your adventure through the free-flight aviary, where a stunning variety of 245 bird species take flight. Witness the graceful beauty of Alexandrine parakeets, Rose-Ringed Parakeets and red-Whiskered Bulbuls among many other species; witness mesmerising sight of migrating birds such as Flamingos & Storks at Point Calimere; exquisite white Ibises & Night Heron at Vedanthangal; become entranced by nature's most captivating songbirds with every step.
Arignar Anna Zoo Park boasts many astonishing feats of nature that extend well beyond its aviary. Enjoy its captivating Butterfly Park with an enticing display of butterflies dancing in their natural habitat, witness a spectacular snake show at Serpentarium with Indian and Burmese pythons, cobras and snakes from India and Burma as well as six major varieties of ancient reptiles at Crocodile Enclosure; visit The Primate House dedicated to animals like Lion-tailed macaques, Nilgiri langurs capped langurs and chimpanzee whose biological cycles have been trained so they will become active during the daytime and sleep during nightfall - an experience like no other Zoo!
Not only is this park home to an array of animal species, it also boasts an expansive library with more than 2,500 books on wildlife and conservation. And for visitors who would rather explore without walking, a battery-operated vehicle tour is offered!
Conservation and history come together
Arignar Anna Zoo Park is not just an oasis for wildlife; it also holds great historical significance. Established as India's first public zoo near Chennai's central railway station in 1855 by Edward Green Balfour. It was after Mr. Balfour convinced the Nawab of Carnatic to donate his entire animal collection. Later, due to surge in visitors, it was moved to Vandalur in 1976 before officially opening up to the public again in 1985.
This park features an animal rescue and rehabilitation centre for injured or rescued from poachers, winning several awards such as Indira Gandhi Paryavaran Puraskar for its conservation efforts. Furthermore, several Bollywood and South Indian movies such as "Theri", featuring Vijay have been shot here.
