Everything to know about Byculla zoo
Experience a world where wild meets the urban
At Byculla Zoo, you can experience a world where the wild meets the urban. Jijamata Udyaan is the official name of the zoo. It was established in 1861, which makes it the oldest yet most loved tourist attraction in Mumbai. The zoo was named after Lady Jijabai, who was the mother of the most famous Maratha leader, Shivaji. In Byculla, where the hustle and bustle of the streets never stops, there’s a zoo filled with animals from all over the world. Which makes it a perfect escape from a busy life. The zoo has grand and big lions, monkeys, leopards, and birds of different species and colors, making the place exciting for every visitor.
But the interesting thing is that the zoo is not limited to animals. It has some of the most beautiful gardens, ponds, and pathways. Whether you want to see amazing animals or want to spend a day with your family in a peaceful place, the zoo perfectly fits both criteria. Moreover, one of the best things about the zoo is that it organizes various programs with the aim of teaching people about wildlife and protecting nature. The programs teach people about wildlife conservation and why it’s so important to take a step towards taking care of our planet.
The zoo is the perfect place for a perfect day out. Get amazed to know how beautiful Mother Nature is and its creations are. Over the course of time, the zoo has gained a lot of attention from visitors and people from all over the world especially visit the zoo to experience its beauty.
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History of Byculla zoo
Byculla Zoo (Jijamata Udyaan) was established a very long time ago, during the year 1861, when India was ruled by Britishers. Earlier, the zoo was built in a small area and consisted of a few animals, like deer and monkeys. Over the course of time, the zoo got bigger, and more animals were included in the zoo from different parts of the country. Originally, the zoo was called the Victoria Gardens, and it was renamed many times.
In 1962, the zoo got its name from Jijamata Udyaan, the mother of a famous Maratha leader named Shivaji, in order to show respect to her. Over the course of time, the zoo has improved a lot to make it a better place for both the animals and visitors. Today, the zoo is one of the oldest zoos in India and Asia. And it is still an interesting and favorite place for people in Mumbai and tourists from all over the world.
Motive behind the Zoo’s construction
Byculla Zoo (Jijamata Udyaan) was primarily built with the aim of providing people with knowledge about wildlife and nature preservation, along with the fun and experience of seeing beautiful creatures of mother nature. The zoo was established in 1861, when India was under the rule of the British. At first, the zoo was only accessible to the rich British people, but later it became accessible to everyone. Moreover, the zoo was built to showcase diverse wildlife species from all over the world, which allows visitors to learn more about wildlife and its creatures. The zoo holds a significant place in Mumbai’s history and is loved by families, students, and people who hold a keen interest in nature and wildlife.
How to reach Byculla Zoo (Jijamata Udyan)
By Air: Mumbai International Airport is the Nearest Airport to Byculla Zoo. The distance between the airport and the zoo is of 18.7 km. You can either take a auto-rickshaw, bus or hire a taxi to reach there.
By Train: Mumbai is well connected through railway lines. Byculla Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Byculla zoo. The distance between the railway station and the zoo is of 1.8 km. You can either take a auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach there.
By Road: There are several bus routes pass through the Zoo. The nearest bus stop to Byculla zoo is Jijamata Udyan bus stand. The distance between the bus stand and the zoo is of 1.1 km you can either take a auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach there
By personal Vehicle: Mumbai is well connected through roads from the major cities. If you have your vehicle you can use Google Maps to reach there.
Byculla Zoo (Jijamata Udyaan) address: XRGP+VVW, Byculla East, Byculla, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400027
Important information about the Byculla Zoo (Jijamata Udyaan)
Byculla Zoo opening and closing timings
| Days | Timings |
| Monday | 9 Am – 6 Pm |
| Tuesday | 9 Am – 6 Pm |
| Thursday | 9 Am – 6 Pm |
| Friday | 9 Am – 6 Pm |
| Saturday | 9 Am – 6 Pm |
| Sunday | 9 Am – 6 Pm |
Byculla Zoo ticket price
| Category & Nationality | Ticket Price |
| Adults (including entry to Rani Baug Penguin enclosure) | INR 50 |
| Children (including entry to Rani Baug Penguin enclosure) | INR 25 |
| Families of four (Parents + 2 Children) | INR 100 (25 for every additional child) |
| Foreign Tourists | INR 300 |
| Monthly passes for morning walkers | INR 150 |
Animals you can see in Byculla Zoo
One of the greatest things about the Byculla Zoo is that it is filled with animals from all over the world, which makes it a great place to experience and learn about different species and creatures. Some of the animals you can encounter include:
Asian Elephants: The zoo is especially known for its majestic Asian elephants. It is a great place to observe these huge creatures up close.
Tigers: Another iconic species the Bengal tigers can be seen in the zoo.
Indian Lions: The zoo is also home to Indian lions, allowing visitors to experience their beauty, learn about, and admire these endangered big cats.
Leopards: Visitors can observe these fast and active leopards.
Crocodiles: The zoo has crocodile enclosures where visitors can observe these ancient reptile.
Birds: The zoo is also known for its beautiful birds species including peafowls, parrots, hornbills, and many more.
Reptiles: The zoo also includes various reptile species such as snakes and turtles.
Primates: The zoo consist various species of primates, including monkeys and gibbons.
Amazing things you can do in Byculla Zoo
See animals from close: The zoo provides an amazing chance to see animals up close. The zoo has mirrors, and animals like the Bengal tiger are behind them. You can watch them in their own homes.
Educational programs: Be a part of various educational programs. Moreover, the zoo provides guided tours, which can be a great way to learn more about the zoo, like wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and the importance of protecting wildlife and natural habitats.
Explore the beautiful botanical gardens: Apart from zoo the place also houses botanical garden with diverse collections of plants, including rare and exotic species. Explore the garden and enjoy the pleasant atmosphere and learn about different plant species.
Plan a picnic with family: If you’re taking your family for a day out in the zoo, It will be a great place to plan a perfect picnic in the greenery of the zoo. Find a shaded spot, spread out a blanket, and savor delicious food while surrounded by nature.
Click some amazing photographs: The Zoo is absolutely a piece of perfection. You can click some amazing pictures of yours in the beautiful surroundings of the Zoo and store as a remember of your hangout.
Activities for children’s: There are various activities designed to educate and entertain children’s. Look for these activities and engage your children’s interest in them.
Most unique and lesser known facts about Byculla Zoo at a glance
- The Byculla Zoo is the oldest zoo in India, established in 1861. The zoo holds high significance in Mumbai’s history.
- The zoo gets renamed many times; earlier, it was named Victoria Gardens in honor of Queen Victoria of England. Later in 1962, it was renamed Jijamata Udyaan in memory of Jijabai, the mother of Emperor Shivaji Maharaj.
- The zoo actively participates in various nature conservation programs that aim at protecting endangered species.
- Apart from zoo the place also houses botanical garden with diverse collections of plants, including rare and exotic species.
- One of the amazing feature of the zoo is its landmark clock tower, which has been a symbol of the zoo for so many years.
Is it worth it visiting Byculla Zoo?
Definitely, it is worth visiting Byculla Zoo. The zoo has some of the most rare and exotic species of animals as well as plants from all over the world. Moreover, the zoo provides the best escape from the hectic day-to-day lives of people. Moreover, if you are a nature enthusiast or an animal lover, this place is made for you.
Suggestions
- During the summers try to bring a water bottle along with you.
- Wear comfortable clothes, as you have to do a lot of trekking to explore the entire tourist places.
- Try to bring some snacks with you that you can eat during the exploring time and through the waste in the dustbin.
- Don’t visit the zoo during peak summer time from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Who should visit Byculla Zoo?
- According to me, people who are busy in their hectic day-to-day lives and who want to spend a day in a interesting and peaceful place should visit the zoo.
- Nature and animals lovers must visit the zoo, as it has some of the rare and exotic animal species.
- College going students finding a place to spend a perfect day out with their friends can visit the Zoo.
- Families can also visit the city.
- Tourists exploring Mumbai and searching for tourist attractions can visit the Zoo.
Best time to visit the Zoo
You have to walk a lot, which is why the best time to visit the Byculla Zoo is before 3 p.m. and after midday.
Nearby attractions from Byculla Zoo
Here are some of the most visited tourist attractions from the zoo.
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (3km)
- Gateway of India (5 km)
- Elephanta Caves (5 Km)
- Colaba Causeway (10 km)
- Marine Drive (7 km)
- Haji Ali Dargah (9 km)
- Sanjay Gandhi National Park (30 km)
Byculla Zoo Pictures
What are the opening hours of Byculla Zoo?
Byculla Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Monday to Sunday, except Wednesday.
What is the entrance fee to visit Byculla Zoo?
The entrance fee for Indians is Rs 50, for foreigners Rs. 300, for children Rs 25, families of four (Parents + 2 Children) Rs 100 (25 for every additional child), Monthly passes for morning walkers Rs 150.
What animals can be seen at Byculla Zoo?
Byculla Zoo is a home to a variety of animals, including Asian Elephants, Tigers, Indian Lions, Leopards, Crocodile, Birds, Reptiles, Primates.
Is there parking available at the Zoo?
Yes, proper parking is available at the zoo.
Is photography allowed inside the Byculla zoo?
Photography is allowed in the zoo. Moreover, there are certain restrictions regarding it, like flash photography, and certain animals may be restricted for their well-being.
Know more about the zoo from here.
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