Arignar Anna Zoological Park: Chennai's Wildlife Haven
Explore diverse wildlife at Chennai's Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of South Asia's largest zoos, offering conservation and recreation.
Arignar Anna Zoological Park, or Vandalur Zoo, is a sprawling zoological garden located in the southwestern part of Chennai, India, about 32 km from the city center. It stands as one of the largest zoos in South Asia, encompassing an impressive 602 hectares (1,490 acres). The park is home to over 2,300 wild animals representing 172 species, making it a biodiversity hotspot and a major attraction for wildlife enthusiasts. Founded by Edward Balfour in 1855 as the Madras Zoo, it initially resided within the Madras Government Museum. As the animal collection grew, the zoo moved to People's Park in 1863. In 1979, it was relocated to its current, larger site in Vandalur, officially opening to the public in 1985 and named after former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, C.N. Annadurai. The zoo is committed to conservation, education, and research. It features diverse exhibits that mimic natural habitats, housing a wide array of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including endangered species like the Bengal tiger and lion-tailed macaque. Visitors can explore the zoo through various means, including walking, renting bicycles, or taking battery-operated vehicles. The park also offers safari rides for a closer look at some of the animals. Beyond animal exhibits, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park includes a rescue and rehabilitation center for abandoned animals, a butterfly house, an aquarium, and a reptile house. It serves as both a recreational space and a center for learning about wildlife and conservation.
Local tips
- Visit during the cooler months (October to February) for a more comfortable experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo is vast and requires a lot of walking.
- Outside food is allowed, but avoid plastic bags. Dining areas are available near the parking lot.
- Download the Vandalur Zoo mobile app for navigation, animal information, and ticket booking.
A brief summary to Arignar Anna Zoological Park
- Grand Southern Trunk Rd, Vandalur, Tamil Nadu, 600048, IN
- +914429542301
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Chennai Central Railway Station or Chennai Airport, take the EMU train to Vandalur Railway Station. From Vandalur station, the zoo is approximately 1 km away and easily accessible by bus or auto-rickshaw. Train fare ranges from ₹120 to ₹750. Auto-rickshaw fare should be around ₹50-₹100.
-
Bus
Several buses connect Chennai to Vandalur Zoo. Check with the Chennai MTC (Metropolitan Transport Corporation) for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Bus fares typically range from ₹20 to ₹50. Buses stop right in front of the zoo's main entrance.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Chennai. A taxi from Chennai Central Station to the zoo will cost approximately ₹1000-₹1300 and take around 35 minutes. Parking is available at the zoo for ₹40 for two-wheelers and ₹150 for cars.
