TripsGuru - India Travel & Tourism

This Agri Horticultural Society of India will take one through the passage of time, into the hearts and minds of the early adventures, their devotion to the soil, their commitment alike to plant life and livestock, their love for the mechanical device, their pursuit of excellence and their heartbreaks and sorrows. The society is a source of inspiration for the modern generation of agri horticultural lovers who seek to scale new heights of horticultural excellence.

Sponsor Individual Garden Block

The society has decided that from now on, the eco lovers to sponsor individual garden sector. Till now RP Modi has sponsored the Japanese Rockery, Bangur Trust has sponsored the model village house, Videocon has sponsored the Rose Garden. RPG has sponsored the garden path illumination.

You can also sponsor individual block of the garden where you may display your banner/advertisement adhering to the specification of the society and without hindering the ecology and aesthetic beauty. You may write to the Secretary in this regard through mail or talk to him on 91.33. 2479 3580, 91.9831255229.

The Zoo

National Zoological Park is one of the finest and largest zoos in Asia and efforts have been made to provide an almost natural habitat to the animals and birds herein New Delhi.

Established in 1959 and is spread over a massive area of 214 acres. Delhi Zoo is home to more than 2000 species of animals and birds from Africa, America, Australia and Asia. The Zoo was set up in 1959. It is regarded as one of the finest zoos in Asia and efforts have been made to provide an almost natural habitat to the animals and the birds. It is a good spot for picnics. It has an early 17th century Kos Minar, which was one of the many, put up by Jehangir, son of the emperor, Akbar. As you climb up the red sandstone gate, you get a chance to admire the vast expanse of the Zoological Park. The winding pathways here are laid with the red Badarpur gravel, and the green shrubs demarcate the red with the undulating brown-green vast stretches of grass.

An idyllic picnic spot in winters, the serenity of the greens here is pleasing and offers a delightful respite from the humdrum of the city. The winding pathways lead to the administrative building with a library on the right side where you can get all the information on animals, birds and plants of both and rare zoological species in India.

This place is particularly popular among the children, they love to see Chimpanzee, Hippopotamus, Spider monkey, African Wild Buffalo, the Gir Lion and Zebras, thee water animals and birds such as Macaque, Banteng, Emu, Hyenas, Axis deer, Fallow deer, Peafowl, Hog Dear and the Jaguar. The underground Reptile Home complex displays a wide array of snakes such as King Cobra and Pythons. Besides these, there are more than 200 varieties of trees here including the hanging deep yellow Alamtas hedges, the drought resistant Lahura trees and the native Delhi bistendu.

Location

National Zoological Park or the zoo of Delhi is one of the finest zoos in Asia and is situated close to Purana Qila or Old Fort.

History

The Indian Board for Wildlife felt in the year 1952 to have a zoo in the national capital of the country to provide recreation to people at large. Accordingly, an ad-hoc committee of some prominent nature lovers of Delhi, including Smt. Indira Gandhi, was constituted under the Chairmanship of Chief Commissioner to formulate a proposal for establishment of Zoological Park for Delhi. Mr M.E.F.Bowring Welsh, of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, was appointed as its Secretary. The committee met on 9th September, 1953 and approved the site between Purana Quila and Humayun’s Tomb for the purpose. It was also decided that the Central Government will develop the park and hand it over in running condition to the Delhi Government since wildlife was managed by Forest Department of the Delhi Government. An official from Indian Forest Service Mr. N.D.Bachkheti was assigned the duty on 1st October 1955 to setup this Zoo.

Major Weinmann, Director of the Ceylon Zoological Garden, Colombo was invited to help draw a co-ordinated plan for development of the Park. He submitted a report alongwith a preliminary plan. As he was not available for continued consultations, it was decided to procure the services of Mr Carl Hagenbeck, owner of the famous Animal Park at Hamburg, West Germany, who gave the idea of open moat enclosures.

He presented a preliminary report in March 1956 and provided a general layout plan of waterways, roads & paths, animal enclosures and sewage system. The plans were amended in the light of Ceylon Zoological Garden local conditions and topography of the ground. The Government of India approved this amended plan on 31st December, 1956.

By the end of 1959, construction had sufficiently advanced. The roads, waterways, moats, ponds and animal houses had been constructed over the Northern half of the area, lawns laid and plantation done. With the announcement of establishment of a Zoological Park at Delhi, gifts of animals started coming from State Government and individuals. They were kept in temporary enclosures around Azimganj Sarai, an enclosed square courtyard built for temporary halt for travellers during the Mughal days. The collection comprising of Tigers, Leopards, Bears, Foxes, Monkeys, Deer, Antelope and many birds were finally transferred to their permanent enclosures. The Park was formally inaugurated on 1st November, 1959 by Mr Punjab Rao Deshmukh, Hon’ble Minister of the Government of India. This Park was initially known as Delhi Zoo. In the year 1982 it was given the status of the National Zoological Park with the idea of it being the model zoo of the country.

Here at the National Zoological Park, birds and animals live in an environment that in many ways resemble their natural habitat. The National Zoological Park not only provides a home for endangered species, but also helps them to breed in captivity. Eventually they may once again thrive in the wild.

Facilities in the zoo

There are open-roofed mobile vans available at affordable charges within the zoo and is the best option for tourists to avoid the exertion and heat of Delhi's summer season. This place is also a good picnic spot as there are a number of parks in the complex. There are ample numbers of water points and drinking water facility, still its better to carry your own water bottle. A cafeteria is also available outside the zoo.

Wildlife at Delhi Zoo

The right walkway brings you to the cages of the animals such as Chimpanzee, Hippopotamus, Spider monkey, African Wild Buffalo, Gir Lion and Zebras etc. While, the left one leads you to the enclosures of the water animals. You cal also see a number of migratory birds like Peafowl, Hyenas, Macaque, Jaguar, etc in the swamps made for the water birds. At the heart of the zoo, lies the underground Reptile Home complex for the nocturnal animals like King Cobra, Pythons and a number of other species.

Fauna at Delhi Zoo

There are approximately 200 varieties of trees in the National Zoological Park of Delhi, properly displayed with their respective descriptions. Some of them are hanging deep yellow Alamtas or the Phulahi hedges, drought resistant Lahura trees, Delhi Bistendu, etc.

The best way to view New Delhi National Zoological Gardens is on an open-roofed mobile van, available at affordable charges within the zoo. There is also a cafeteria outside the zoo.

Best Time to Visit

It is advisable to visit the zoological park in the early hours of its opening or late in the afternoon before it closes. Summer months should be avoided as most of the animals prefer to rest in their hideouts and are not easily seen though tigers and bears can be seen cooling off in the moats surrounding their enclosures. Weekends should be avoided, as it is very crowded on these days. Feeding and teasing of animals is prohibited, though insensitive visitors are often seen doing so.

How to Reach

Tourists can either take local buses from various points within the city to reach the zoological park, which is located near Mathura Road or they can hire auto-rickshaws and taxis or metro rail. The zoo is known as ‘chiriyaghar’ among residents of Delhi.

Nearest Railway Station: Nizamuddin Railway Station Nearest Metro Station: Central Secretariat Functional Metro Station: Central Secretariat Nearest International Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport

Tourist Attractions

Nearby Tourist Attractions Walking distance: Nila Gumbad on southeastern side, Purana Qila, Humayun’s Tomb, Sabz Burz, Nili Chhatri; In 3 km radius: India Gate, Ashokan Rock Edict, Nizam-ud-din’s Shrine, Khairul Manzil Masjid.

Nearby Places to Eat: Sweet Corner, Nathu’s (both in Sunder Nagar Market), Hotel Oberoi, Flavors of Defence colony, Indian Habitat Center in Lodi Road, Karims at Nizamuddin and roadside food stalls.

Nearby Shopping Venues: Sunder Nagar Market (antiques, jewelry, brassware), Connaught Place (jewelry, books, art galleries, leather goods and clothes) Central Cottage Industries Emporia (merchandise and curios), Janpath (clothes and low priced gifts, souvenirs and curios) and Palika Bazaar (electronic items).

Time to Visit

Open on all days except Friday Preferred Timings: 1st April - 15 October: 9.00 am- 4.30 pm / 16 October - 31st March: 9.30 am- 4.00 pm. Admission Fee: Indian citizen: INR 5 / Foreigner: INR 10 Photography Charges: Video Camera: Self: INR. 50 / Commercial: INR. 500

Taraporewala Aquarium is located in Mumbai. One can see in taraporewala aqarium all over 100 & more species of the marine and fresh water fish are on display.Two section in main hall the first of 160 cubic FT.miniature section with 2 cubic feet was second section. Including sharks, turtles and morays. It also includes seven varieties of coral fish from the Lakshadweep Islands which were added to the collection recently.

Taraporewala Aquarium on Marine Drive has a good collection of sea and fresh water fish and other marine life. There is a proposal to convert this into an underwater oceanarium, where people can undertake an undersea walk, surrounded by marine life. It is open on all days except Mondays.

Location

On the way to Marine drive is Taraporewala Aquarium- one of the best in India. The aquarium took its birth in 1951. The aquarium has a good collection of sea and fresh water fish and other marine life. The aquarium is named after Mr Taporewala, a Parsi philanthropist who was instrumental in setting up the aquarium. The initial grant of Rs 200,000 from Mr Taraporewala paved the way for setting the aquarium. The aquarium is now supported by the Maharashtra State Government.

Inside

The main hall has two sections. The first of 160 cubic feet and the second a miniature section with 2 cubic feet. In all, over 100 species of marine and fresh water fish are on display, including sharks, turtles and morays. It also includes seven varieties of coral fish from the Lakshadweep Islands which were added to the collection recently.

There is a proposal to convert this aquarim into an underwater oceanarium and the government of Maharashtra is seriouly working on it. If this materialises then peole can undertake an undersea wallk, surrounded by marine life. Just a thought of it makes one excited.

Taraporewala Aquarium is the sole aquarium in the city of Mumbai, India. Built in 1951 at a cost of Rs 800,000, it hosts marine and freshwater fishes. The aquarium is located on the famous Marine Drive. The aquarium is named after a Parsee pilhanthropist who donated Rs. 200,000 for the construction. The aquarium is one of the tourist attractions of the city.

The main hall has two wings, the first one is 160 cubic feet (4.5 cubic metres), and the second of only 2 cubic feet (0.5 cubic metres). There are 100 species of marine and fresh water fish including seven types of coral fish from the Lakshadweep Islands. Attractions include sharks, turtles and morays.

Timings

11:00 am to 8:00 pm on weekdays and between 10:00 am to 8:00 pm on Sunday. Closed on Mondays.

Marching Destination

By Road

Taraporewala Aquarium is in Mumbai

By Rail

Mumbai is nearest Railway Station.

By Air

Mumbai is nearest airport.

A fresh water aquarium -fish shaped, a snake park and a children's park with a toy train, waits to amuse and delight the children.

Malampuzha Garden is at a convenient distance of 10 km from Palakkad on the lower hills of the Western Ghats. It is the most frequented picnic spot complete in beauty with a dam, manicured gardens, fountains, pools and pathways. Frequent bus services ply between Palakkad and Malampuzha Garden. The Rose Garden has more than a hundred varieties of roses making a very vibrant scenario. There is an aerial ropeway across the garden. The dams and gardens are illuminated on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays. The reservoir features the facilities like boating and fishing. You can complete tour picnic outing with the ride in the pedal boats, rowboats, water scooters and motorboats or by taking a plunge into the well-kept swimming pool. A fresh water aquarium, a snake park and a children's park are the added feature of the Malampuzha Garden.

Sakkarbaug Zoological Garden also known as Sakkarbaug Zoo or Junagadh Zoo at Junagadh, Gujarat, India is famous worldwide for providing purebreed Asiatic Lions for the Indian and the international Endangered species captive breeding program for the critically endangered Asiatic Lions. Wild free ranging Asiatic Lions have become extinct all over Asia and are today found only in the nearby Gir Forest

The Parassinikkadavu Snake Park is committed to the preservation and conservation of snakes as most species of the reptile are on the verge of extinction. There are about 150 varieties of snakes including the spectacled cobra, King cobra, Russel Viper, Krait and Pit Viper living in the park.

The park also has a large collection of non-poisonous snakes including pythons. A research laboratory to extract venom from snakes is proposed here.

Parassinikkadavu is also noted for the famous Muthappan temple. This is the only temple in Kerala where a Theyyam performance is a daily ritual offering.Parassinikkadavu Snake park - Nearest airport : Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode about 93 km from Kannur.

Location

Parassinkkadavu about 16 km from Kannur town, Kannur district, north Kerala.

The Zoo is striving for the maintenance of ecological balance in the Eastern Himalayas with the following objectives :

Conservation of natural resources and preservation of the Himalayan animals with special reference to research on ecology, animal behaviour, biology and physiology or different high altitude fauna and flora.

Education, motivation and training of people towards the role of conservation.

Re-introduction of rare and endangered wild animals into the wild.

Co-ordination of conservation breeding programme.

Recent success in breeding Red Pandas and Snow Leopards has brought the zoo in the forefront in the field of ex situ conservation. PNHZP follows its objective not only in principle but also in practice. The zoo neither sells animals nor does it make exchanges on bargain. If there is a need for conservation purpose, it gives animals free of cost. While other zoos in the country are still struggling for breeding important species, PNHZP has shown success covering all endangered animals in the collection.

There has been a substantial increase in the number of important animals during the last 5/6 years. Red Panda and Snow Leopard population has tripled. Their number of enclosures have approximately doubled during the last 5/6 years. This has elevated the position of the zoo at international level. In addition to the above, the zoo gives pleasure to visitors by displaying different kinds of animals like Siberian Tiger, Tibetan Wolf, Yak, Blue Sheep, Markhor, Himalayan Thar, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Snow Leopard and host of Pheasants.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is situated at Jawahar Parbat, in Darjeeling, West Bengal. Established in 1958, the park is dedicated to Shrimati Padmaja Naidu, former Governor of West Bengal. It is regarded as the only zoo in the world to breed Tibetan Wolf in captivity and the first South Asian Zoo to breed Snow Leopard and Siberian Tiger.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoo is situated at an elevation of 2133.5 m against the visually stunning backdrop of the mighty Kanchenjunga. The park is a natural habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. Himalayan Black Bear, Deer and Red Panda are the major animal species found here. The park is also home to a large variety of bird species including the Himalayan Monal Pheasant.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park also aims to protect the rare and endangered wild animals.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute is located adjacent to the zoo.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is open from 08:00 to 16:00 hrs.

Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad was established in vide G.O.Ms. No.247, Dated 26 October 1959. It was declared open to the public on 6 Oct 1963.The park extends over 380 acres, and is a premier recreation spot in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad.The Nehru Zoological Park is run by the Forest department, Government of Andhra Pradesh.

In consonance with the objective of the Government of Andhra Pradesh, this Zoo has been in the forefront in building modern enclosures for the display of animals and also in taking up the task of construction Safari complex within the Zoo and construction of Nocturnal Animals House and many more such programs. Over a time the Zoo personnel have achieved expertise in animal handling, management, breeding of endangered animals capturing of wild animals, treatment of injured animals both in Zoo and in the wild, etc.The Zoo Plays a role model for the other upcoming zoos. Zoo gets grants from the Government Of Andhra Pradesh for Zoo's maintenances as the Zoo has non-tangible benefits on the society at large.

To take-up conservation and breeding of endangered animals and rehabilitate them with special attention on the endemic fauna of Deccan plateau.

Bring awareness in the public on Conservation of wildlife by conducting appropriate awareness and education programmes.

Research on wildlife for its conservation and management.

The notable development during the year under review is the formation of Zoo Authority of Andhra Pradesh. which was constituted under G.O.Ms.No. 105,EFs&T(For.11)Dept,dated 10.10.2005.The main aim in constitution of this authority is to have autonomy in development of Zoo, and utilize the revenue realised,for the development of Zoo. Besides the above, the post of Director was created in the cadre of Forests during the period. Mr.V.Kishan.I F.S took charge as the Director on 27.7.2005 and continued till 20.4.2006 when i had taken charge from him.

During the year, the Zoo has successfully bred endangered species like Mouse Deer, whose population has gone up from 8 to 14 this was achieved by selective breeding. That is done by making compatible pairs and giving extra nutrition and avians like Silver pheasant,Grey Jungle Fowl,Golden Pheasant, Khalij Pheasant, Painted Stork, White Ibis. Large Egret,rey Heron. In the contrary, a Hippo and wolf died in the Zoo.

Some additions to existing stock of Parrots were made by gift from horticulture Department & through exchange also. Three wild dogs were received from S.V.Z.P. Tirupathi.(8) bears which were seized by A.P.Forest Department and Non governmental organisation were kept in the Zoo as a transit home and later were shifted to Bear rescue Center in Agra.

Apart from the above bears, Two Bears were captured as they had created panic in the villages. They were later released into the forest.Two bear cubs of eight months old were rescued from a drop open well & released back into the adjoining forest. Apart from the above activities the personnel of the Zoo were involved in capturing 10 spotted deer from a Mini Zoo which is owned by Satyam computers. From Venkateswara Zoological Park an Elephant the same is being used now for the procession.

Deloitte Software Company staff celebrated Impact day in the Zoo. A hundred numbers participated the Impact day, by planting 50 saplings and helped in developing lawn.

Free entry was given to the children during 14th Vanya Prani Saptah and also on the Children's Day when huge crowd have visited the Zoo.

We are keeping 178 varieties of Animals, Birds, Reptiles, Fishes which require a variety of foods. This is procured locally through food suppliers and by raising browse and fodder plants in the Zoo premises and no Chemical Fertilizers or Insecticides were used. The fodder is raised by using farm yard manure. As per the feed schedule the feed is procured and prepared in the dry kitchen and supplied to the animals. Care is taken to provide balanced diet for all animals and special diet is prepared for sick animals which are under treatment and special care is taken for breeding Mammals, Birds, Reptiles to achieve good breeding results.

All the animals in the Zoo are provided with complete diet. Optimal is the best Prophylaxis against diseases in captive animals. According to the requirement and special needs of the Animals, Birds and Reptiles in the Zoo hygienic and nutritious diet fortified with Vitamins and Minerals are issued regularly. Feed schedule charts are available for each species. The chart indicates the feed items that are required for animals per day. The feed items which come from outside are thoroughly checked by the Veterinarians and the perishable items are disinfected and then weighed and issued to the various sites. Nursing mothers, Lactating mothers, nursing young animals and abandoned young animals are fed with special balanced diet.

Vitamin supplements are provided as prescribed from time to time by the Dietitians, Veterinarians and Veterinary committee personnel.

Zoo Fodder Plot

Raising of fodder was started in the year 1964 over an extent of 7 Acres within the premises of Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad. By growing the fodder in our premises the food borne diseases are totally avoided and the General health of the animals also improved. Since November 2001, the fodder plot is given to a contractor for maintenance and supplying the fodder to Zoo.

birds like the Falcons, Hawks, Harriers, Kites, Eagles, Buzzards & Vultures of the order Falconiformes, constitute a separate class of Birds popularly known as the " Birds of Prey" or "Raptors". There are about 290 different species of Raptors spread all over the world out of which 63 are found in India 45 species in Andhra Pradesh state. A majority of them are exclusive hunters and a few are carrion eaters. They are proficient hunters and their prey range from insects, Lizards, Snakes, Rodents to other mammals.

These fascinating birds occupy a key position in the balance of nature, as they effectively control the pests, rodents, etc, The carrion-eating vulture does invaluable service to mankind by devouring the decaying carcasses and keeping the environs clean. But today the birds of prey are on a decline in many parts of the world due to the ever expanding urbanisation, destruction of their natural habitat (roosting areas and nesting areas) and also intensive and extensive use toxic pesticides and insecticides which get into their system through the prey. Some of these fascinating birds are on the verge of extinction eg: Californian condor, whose number is less than 100.

Keeping in view, the key role played by these birds in the balance of nature, it is essential that they be offered the maximum protection.

In these enclosures, at present, birds like Scavenger Vulture, White backed Vulture, Cinereous Vulture, Shorttoed eagle, Tawny eagle, Pariah Kite, Kestrel, White-eyed buzzard and Shikara are exhibited. This enclosure is made over an area of 10,000 Sq.ft.

This magnificent zoo in Orissa was established on 27 December, 1960. The most important year in the history of this zoological park is 1980, when the regal white tiger received a new lease of life. Ganga and Deepak were the two tigers that were born to make this year much jubilated for all. At present there are about 34 tigers that are found here. In 1991, the tiger safari was established at this park in order to provide an enthralling view of the tigers from behind the protected bushes.

Location

Better known as "Garden of Pleasure”; Nandankanan Zoo is situated 20 km off Bhuvneshwar in Orissa. As part of Chandaka Forests here, the zoo is a perfect escape destination from hustle bustle of the city. The zoo lies on the lines of Kolkata-Chennai railway line and is very close to Barang Railway Station. With 362 hectares of forest area, Kanji Lake occupies a significant portion of 66 hectares. The first ever breeding ground of endangered species, Nandankanan Zoo boasts of the significant contribution that the park has made in wildlife conservation.

Climate at Nandankanan Zoo

Summers are hot here with a maximum mercury level recorded being 40 degree centigrade. Winters are cooler and pleasant time to visit this park. The minimum temperature recorded during winters remains around 14 degree centigrade. With the onset of monsoons, the park experiences heavy rainfalls and makes most of its area inaccessible. You should try avoid visiting this park during monsoons as roads get washed out.

The Ecological System in the Nandankanan Zoo

The Flora in the Nandankanan Zoo Nandankanan is a home to various flourishing varieties of flora. The splendid environs of Chandaka forests and ripling waters of Kanjia Lake forms flora here. Giving it a gardening beauty are the flowers here. The zoo is thickly densed with trees like Bija, Sal, Asana and Anala.

Nandankanan is world renowned for its white tigers. This internationally recognized zoo is home to a large number of animals which are on verge of extinction. Animals like Rhino, Manipuri Deer, Wild Ass, Tigers, Himalayan Black Bear, Lion Tailed Macaque, Chimpanzees, Orangutan, Hippopotamus, Zebra, Mouse deer, Blackbuck and Chousinga are most eminent. There are about 21 species of reptiles that can be found here.

The Avifauna in the Nandankanan Zoo

Nandankanan is a bird watcher's paradise. There are about 59 species of birds that are found at this park. Peafowl and White necked stork are the two birds that enslave wildlife enthusiasts with their bewitching beauty.

The Safaris in the Nandankanan Zoo

Lion Safari tours offered at this park enthrall the visitors at this park. Jeeps and elephants are also available on hire to have a ride through the park. Have a view of majestic wildlife of this park through its Safari tours.

Nandankanan Zoo Wildlife Travel Circuit Bangalore - Mysore - Ranganathittu - Nagarhole - Bandipur - Mudumalai - Ooty - Cochin - Periyar - Varkala - Trivandrum

How to Reach Nandankanan Zoo

Air

Bhubaneswar Airport, 20km.

Rail

Bhubaneswar is the nearest railway station from the zoo.

Road

Bhubaneswar is well connected to other parts of the state. Innumerable buses are available from Bhuvneshwar that enroute to Nandankanan.

Place

Chandaka Forest, 25 km from Bhuvneswar, Orissa, India.

Major Attractions : White Tiger, Black Panthers & Gharial Crocodiles.

Area Covered : 14 Sq km.

Ideal Time to Visit the Park : October to March.

Nearest Attractions : Madikere, Bandipur National Park, Madhumalli.

Some Major Accesses : Bhuvneshwar (20 km), Kolkata.