Located in the sacred city of Tirupati in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India, Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park stands as a testament to the intertwining of spirituality and nature conservation. Established in the year 1987, the zoological park is one of the key attractions in the region. It was named after Lord Venkateswara, the deity of Seven Hills in Tirumala, which is a significant pilgrimage site nearby.
The zoological park was set up with an objective to create awareness and education about wildlife conservation and to protect and conserve the endemic and endangered species found in the Eastern Ghats. The idea was to provide a natural habitat for the animals, matching the surrounding environment of the Seshachalam Hills.
Spread over an expanse of approximately 5532 acres, Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park has been a pioneer in adopting the concept of 'ex-situ' conservation, where animals are protected in a setting akin to their natural habitat. With its establishment, it became a major tourist spot, drawing attention not only from wildlife enthusiasts but also from visitors and pilgrims coming to Tirupati. Over the years, the park has continuously expanded and improved its facilities and exhibits to provide better care for its inhabitants and an enriching experience for its visitors.
Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park houses a wide array of wildlife including Indian Tigers, Lions, and Panthers, along with various species of primates, birds, reptiles, and ungulates that are native to the Indian subcontinent. The park's thematic focus on the Hindu mythology adds an interesting dimension to the exhibits. For example, the Avian World exhibit relates to the mythical bird Garuda. There is also a museum within the premises that illustrates the relationship between Hindu deities and wildlife.
Visitors to the park can enjoy guided tours, which include the herbivore safari park and lion safari. The park also offers educational programs for students and environmental awareness camps, making it a favorite field trip destination for schools and colleges. The serene ambiance of the park, coupled with the panoramic views of the Eastern Ghats, makes the visit a tranquil experience.
In recent years, the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park has witnessed a shift towards eco-friendly and sustainable tourism. Efforts have been made to reduce the carbon footprint and promote conservation among visitors. Digitalization has also been a trend, with online booking systems being implemented for ticket purchases and offering virtual tours to reach a wider audience. Moreover, the park has been involved in various wildlife conservation research projects and breeding programs to sustain biodiverse populations.
The park is actively involved in the conservation of threatened species and works in collaboration with various research institutes and conservation bodies. It has also seen advancements in veterinary care and animal welfare practices. Looking toward the future, expansions in educational outreach and conservation efforts are on the agenda, ensuring that the Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park continues to be not only a center for tourism but also a hub for conservation and research.
For those planning to visit Sri Venkateswara Zoological Park, it's open on all days except Tuesday, and the visiting hours are from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The park offers various ticket options, including combo tickets for multiple attractions. It is strongly recommended to check the latest visiting guidelines and timings before the visit, as these can change due to season or administrative reasons.
Note: As with any travel during the current times, visitors are advised to adhere to any health and safety guidelines amidst the ongoing global health concerns.
