Thrissur Zoo, also known as the State Museum & Zoo, is located in the heart of Thrissur city in Kerala, India. It is one of the oldest zoos in the country, established in 1885 by the erstwhile Maharaja of the Kingdom of Cochin. The zoo is spread across 13.5 acres of lush greenery and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Thrissur Zoo is located at Chembukkavu, approximately 2 kilometers from the Thrissur Railway Station. The zoo is situated in a picturesque setting with well-maintained gardens and tree-lined pathways, making it a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.
The zoo is open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day of the week, except on Mondays. The zoo remains closed on Mondays for maintenance purposes.
The entry fee for Thrissur Zoo is Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children below the age of 12. Foreign tourists are charged a higher entry fee of Rs. 150 per person.
Thrissur Zoo is home to a diverse range of species, including Asiatic lions, Royal Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, and various species of deer, birds, and reptiles. The zoo also boasts a botanical garden with a wide variety of plant species, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Visitors to Thrissur Zoo can enjoy a range of activities such as guided nature walks, bird watching, and animal feeding sessions. The zoo also hosts educational programs and workshops for children and adults alike, aimed at promoting wildlife conservation and environmental awareness.
Thrissur Zoo offers jeep safari rides for visitors to explore the zoo and its surroundings. The charges for a jeep safari ride start from Rs. 200 per person and may vary depending on the duration and route chosen.
Children below the age of 5 are allowed to enter Thrissur Zoo free of charge. The entry fee for male adults is Rs. 20, while it is Rs. 10 for female adults. Children between the ages of 5 and 12 are charged Rs. 10 for entry. Senior citizens (above the age of 60) are eligible for a discounted entry fee of Rs. 10.
Thrissur Zoo provides special facilities for senior citizens, including designated seating areas, wheelchair access, and discounted entry fees. The zoo staff are trained to assist elderly visitors and ensure their comfort and convenience during their visit.
The best time to visit Thrissur Zoo is during the winter months of October to February when the weather is pleasant and conducive for outdoor activities. The cooler temperatures make it ideal for exploring the zoo and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Thrissur Zoo is located close to several other popular tourist attractions in the city, including the Vadakkunnathan Temple, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, and the Kerala Kalamandalam cultural center. Visitors can also explore the vibrant markets and local eateries in the surrounding areas.
Thrissur Zoo provides ample parking space for visitors arriving by car or two-wheeler. The parking facility is well-maintained and secure, ensuring the safety of vehicles while visitors explore the zoo and its attractions.
Visitors to Thrissur Zoo are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the animals and maintain the cleanliness of the premises. Smoking, littering, and feeding the animals are strictly prohibited. Visitors are also advised to maintain a respectful distance from the animals and refrain from disturbing them.
Thrissur Zoo is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest railway station is Thrissur Railway Station, located just 2 kilometers away from the zoo. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 55 kilometers from Thrissur city. Local bus services and taxi cabs are also available for transportation within the city.
For more information about Thrissur Zoo, including special events, guided tours, and educational programs, visitors can contact the zoo authorities or visit the official website for updates and announcements.