About Arignar Anna Zoological Park

The Arignar Anna Zoological Park, known colloquially as the Vandalur Zoo, holds the title of India’s largest zoological garden, encompassed within a sprawling 1300 acres. Initially established in 1855 within a government-funded museum on Pantheon Road in Chennai's Egmore district, the zoo later relocated to the quieter outskirts at Vandalur due to rising noise pollution and a growing animal collection. Officially opened on July 24, 1985, by then-Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Dr M.G. Ramachandran, this move cost approximately $75 million. The zoo’s affiliation with the Central Zoo Authority of India marks its importance in national wildlife conservation efforts.

Spanning an area of 230 acres, Vandalur Zoo's rescue & rehabilitation space aims to thwart the extinction of numerous rare species at both national & international levels. Its vast collection boasts 2553 species of flora & fauna, including 1500 wild species and 46 endangered species vigilantly kept from extinction. Additionally, the zoo houses 47 mammal species, 63 bird species, five amphibian varieties, 25 fish types, & ten insect species, making it one of India's largest wildlife sanctuaries.

On entering Vandalur Zoo, visitors are greeted by an ambience reminiscent of a natural forest habitat. Animals and birds thrive here within free zones and moated enclosures designed to sustain a balanced ecological system underpinned by the principle of “Survival of the Fittest.”

The zoo features well paved pathways allowing visitors to observe animals’ daily routines leisurely. It houses two aviaries - the Sanctuary aviary and the Walkthrough aviary strategically positioned near lakes Hassan & Otteri to facilitate bird migration. Moreover, attractions like the Butterfly House, Reptile House (Serpentarium), Amphibian House, Crocodile enclosures, Primate house (including nocturnal species), Small Mammals house, Aquarium (Aquatic displays), and Prey-predator exhibits (& notably the Pre-historic Animal Park) add educational value while significantly enhancing visitor engagement. Additionally, facilities such as Zoo School and the Zoo Library open on Mondays & Fridays, enriching visitor experiences.

Visitors can also embark on a fifteen-minute safari through densely vegetated areas where wild animals roam more freely, thanks primarily to its location within the Vandalur Reserve Forest Area, which mimics the Western Ghats' natural habitat, ensuring comfort for its animal residents. Elephant safaris have recently been introduced as an exciting new draw.

Vandalur's commitment extends towards ecological conservation with robust management systems for water and power; solar panels power animal enclosures, ensuring optimal light and ventilation conditions despite Chennai’s high temperatures.

Named after respected Tamil political leader & former Chief Minister Arignarg Anna Durai,  Vandalur Zoo is strategically located along the Chennai Trichy National Highways at the junction with Thambaram Kelambakkam Road, merely 15 km from Chennai International Airport & close proximity to Tambaram city centre as well as Tambaram Air Force Station under surveillance by Vandalur Reserve Forest.

A visit to Vandalur is an invitation to escape everyday life and immerse in nature’s tranquillity if only for one day!