Menagerie to magic

Alipore Zoological Gardens in Alipore Kolkata is fondly known as Alipore Zoo. There’s a fascinating story that surrounds the birth of this place. It began years ago when the British ruled India with an iron fist. The then Governor General Richard Wellesley had built a sprawling summer home in suburban Kolkata, Barrackpur. He had a fascination for animals and housed a small menagerie there which grew to become the Alipore Zoological Gardens. 

The Alipore Zoo stands as a cherished sanctuary of biodiversity and wonder. Established in 1875, it is one of the oldest zoological parks in India, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Spanning over 46 acres, the zoo is home to a rich tapestry of animal species, from majestic lions and graceful giraffes to exotic birds and reptiles. With its lush greenery, tranquil water bodies, and immersive exhibits, the Alipore Zoo invites visitors of all ages to embark on a journey of discovery and appreciation for the natural world.

Roaring dreams never die

It took ages and generations to build what we know as the iconic Alipore Zoo today. Dr. John McCleland who was the custodian of the Bengal Asiatic Society Museum in 1842 made the first attempt. Unfortunately, not many paid attention to his vision and it ebbed off gradually.  

Two decades went by and Dr. Joseph Bart Fayer, the then President of Asiatic Society of Bengal presented the idea of having a zoological garden in the city. Strangely, he received a positive response but it was shredded to bits because of the unavailability of enough land. The third time, Postmaster to the Government of India, Carl Louis Schwendier created and strategized an entire plan to build the zoo. But it was shelved till the availability of space. 

Repeated efforts never go to waste. The fourth time over, the Government of India, designated 46.5 acres of land to build the zoo. 

Benevolence of a few good men

Donations were made in the form of money, animals, and services. When the development of the land began, a few animal houses were also being built. It is said that the "Mullick House" is the first animal house constructed within the Zoo with the financial help of Raja Rajendra Mullick Bahadur. Another name that shines through while talking about the building of the zoo is Bahadur Ram Brahma Sanyal. He was the first Superintendent of the garden, who toiled day and night to improve and maintain the animals in good health and a clean environment. He was also responsible for in-house breeding. 

Timings

Opening time - 06:30 AM

Closing time - 07:30 PM

Let the parade begin

 The effort of years is now for you to visit and witness. Scores of animals, of different species, types and origins now live in this zoo. You can see mammals, reptiles, and birds, that have been on Earth for years. But one name that had made the headlines was an Aldabra giant Tortoise “Adwaita”, who was 250 years before dying in the year 2006. If your senses have been teased and you wish to visit and see this iconic place, you should visit during the winter months. As frost-kissed air envelopes the landscape, migratory birds grace the sanctuary, weaving melodies into the crisp breeze. You can also watch rhinos, and tigers in glass enclosures, aviaries, reptiles, and a varied number of mammal and bird species.  

The most unique quality of the zoo is the absence of bars and cages. During the establishment of the Central Zoo Authority of India, it was decided that the zoo would be more like a habitat than a confined space of captivity. After this, the zoo saw the spacious open-air moated enclosures for primates, white tigers, Indian elephants, Indian lions and muggers, gharial & saltwater crocodiles being made with the financial aid provided by Zoo Authority. 

Breeding the beautiful 

Man and animal cannot live alone. The existence of both in good health is crucial for survival. That is why the zoo has put in place a few targets.  The main purpose is to make Alipore Zoo an important breeding and conservation center in India. The major spotlight will be on the fauna found in the wetland areas.  The awareness of the conservation will be dispensed to the public especially to kids as well so that they are more sensitive to the animal kingdom. The effort is also to carry out research and studies on captive wild animals and share it with other centers so that all can benefit from it. 

So, if you love animals and want to learn, spend time, and experience their world, Alipore Zoological Garden should be on your bucket list.

Away from the confines of the animal world

As you step out of the zoo you can step into the world of colour and aroma. Wonder what we are referring to? We are talking about the flower market of Kolkata. Here you will drown in the varieties and species of flowers on sale. Stroll around for a few hours to take in the scenic splendor of this place. If you are looking for something quiet and peaceful, you can walk around the Princep Ghat but if history is your flavor then Victoria Memorial and Indian Museum are also close by.

As the sun sets over the tranquil haven of Alipore Zoo, leaving behind whispers of the day's adventures, visitors depart with hearts full of wonder and cherished memories, forever touched by the magic of wildlife and conservation.