Byculla Zoo

The Byculla zoo is part of a long list of such properties across the city that allow an understanding of the changes experienced by a metropolis like Mumbai through a brisk walk down its lanes.

The Indian Express (01st May, 2016)

To be honest, Indian zoos didn’t have a good reputation in my mind. I thought nobody looked after them, the people didn’t know how to look after the animals. But I was proven wrong. I was so impressed that I visited it twice in the same month.

When my friends asked me to join them to visit the zoo, I was a bit hesitant. Call it serendipity, but a few days before the trip I stumbled upon their Instagram page. Seeing that the people looking after the animals are in fact qualified and passionate about their job, made me less skeptical about Indian zoos and changed my perspective about them.

Veermata Jijabai Bhonsale Udyan and Zoo (also known as Mumbai Zoo, Byculla Zoo, Rani Baug, and formerly Victoria Gardens), is located at Byculla, in the heart of Mumbai, India. It is the oldest public garden in Mumbai. After Indian independence, the zoo was renamed after Jijamata, mother of Shivaji – the first Maratha emperor.

The zoo is a haven for mammals, birds, and reptiles. Spread over an area of 50 acres, the zoo has nearly 3000 species of trees, most of which are rare. The Aquatic Birds’ aviary offers you a walkthrough on the wooden bridge, to interact with the birds, and also click pictures of these flying beauties. Pelicans, flamingos, albino crows, cranes, and storks are among the many other species in this aviary.

The botanical garden has much more population and variety compared to the number of animals. Big trees of different species cover the entire area giving shade to the animals as well as for the visitors along the path. The zoo premises also houses the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum, Kala Ghoda statue, and the David Sassoon clock tower.

On my first visit, my friends and I reached there at around 9:15am. The zoo opened at 9:30. We were lucky to be the first ones at the ticket counter.  Ticket prices are ₹50 for adults and ₹25 for children aged 3 to 12 years.

There are map boards at different places. Though they are not completely up to date, they are helpful to find your way. There are clean washrooms available. There is a children’s play area with swings and jungle gym. They also have a canteen with yummy snacks like samosas and pizzas. There is a water filter/purifier near it.

The best time to visit the zoo is during the winter months, from November to February. The temperature is favourable for the walking you need to do to explore the huge zoo and the botanical garden. Also the most crowded months are school vacation period. If you want to skip children running around, visit the zoo during the rest of the year. Evenings would be a comfortable visit to the zoo. But if less to no crowds are your priority I would advise you to visit during weekday mornings.

Except the sloth bear, I saw all the animals on my first visit. Geting to see the animals up close was an amazing experience. The animals were in good health. They were living in clean environment and good conditions. There are also many varities of beautiful flora and trees in the park.

Sources : Wikipedia, Holidify, Mumbai Tourism by Holidays DNA

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Abby Recommends :

Wearing comfortable shoes 👟. Any vacation where you got to walk a lot, wear the most comfortable shoes you own.

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Have you been to any zoo or parks where you got to see wildlife? Tell me in the comments below.

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Bon Voyage! Abby