The oldest public zoo of India

Chennai is considered as the gateway to South India. The capital city of Tamil Nadu state of India has hundreds of tourist sites, which include museums, British period monuments, temples, beaches, etc. Nowadays, there are many such new attractions such as amusement parks and other such things. However, Zoo is one of the oldest attractions of Chennai, which remains a favorite for many people. 

Vandalur Zoo, also known as Arignar Anna Zoological park, is located at Vandalur, a suburb 30 kms away from the city. One of the unknown facts is that this is the first public Zoo in India. It was founded in 1855 CE. Another interesting fact is that this is the biggest Zoo in South East Asia. 

Vandalur zoo houses more than 170 species of animals, birds, and reptiles, spread over 1260 acres. The Zoo was originally called Madras Zoo, and it was located in the heart of the city. In 1975 CE, due to space constraints, the Zoo was moved to Vandalur.

You might get tired to cover the entire Zoo by walking. There are battery-operated vehicles and cycles available for rent in the Zoo. Elephant safari is an attraction added to the Zoo a few years ago.

The most attractive place in the Zoo is lion safari for sure, where you can find lions in their natural habitat. You will get a feel of visiting a wildlife sanctuary. I would say it's better than the sanctuary, as generally, you will hardly encounter any animals in the wildlife sanctuaries. White peacock and white tigers are my favorites in this Zoo. The reptiles section is terrific. I have never seen so many varieties of crocodiles in such a large number anywhere else so far.

Do visit this place. Very important! Don't forget to take your children along with you. They will love this place more than you.

Happy travelling.

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