Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Vandalur Zoo), Chennai

Timings

9 am to 5 pm

Closed

Tuesdays

Opened at Vandalur

1985

Nearest airport

Chennai (about 15 km)

Nearest railway station

Vandalur (suburban)

Ideal time needed

Half a day to a full day

What to see

Much of the zoo uses open, moated enclosures that let animals move in more natural surroundings. Highlights include the big cat enclosures, a primate section with nocturnal species, crocodile ponds and a reptile house. The walk-through aviary lets you stroll among birds, and wetlands within the campus attract migratory species in winter. A butterfly house and a prehistoric animal park are popular with children.

• Lion and deer safari
• Walk-through aviary
• Reptile house and crocodile enclosures
• Butterfly house
• Nocturnal animal house
• Prehistoric animal park

Safari and conservation

A short safari ride of about fifteen minutes takes you through forested enclosures where lions and deer roam. The zoo also runs rescue, rehabilitation and breeding work for threatened species, and uses solar power and water-saving systems across the campus. Information boards and keeper talks help children learn about the animals, making it a good educational outing for school groups and families.

Timings and tips

The zoo is usually open from 9 am to 5 pm and is closed on Tuesdays; check for changes around public holidays. The grounds are large, so arrive early and allow most of a day. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water and a hat, and consider the battery vehicles if you have young children or elderly family with you. Weekday mornings are the quietest.

How to reach

The zoo is on the Chennai–Tiruchirappalli highway (GST Road) near Tambaram, roughly 15 km south-west of the Chennai airport. Vandalur station on the suburban railway line is within walking distance, and city buses stop at the gate. We can include Vandalur Zoo in a Chennai family itinerary with a car and driver.

Also nearby