Hightlight
- Car parking
- Non smoking
Thrissur Zoo and State Museum, located in the Chembukkavu area of Thrissur City, Kerala, was founded in 1885. Spanning 13.5 acres, it is one of the oldest zoos in India and a must-visit destination for families and animal lovers, offering an engaging experience with its variety of wildlife, birds, and reptiles. The zoo also houses a natural history museum and an art museum, showcasing the rich cultural and social heritage of Kerala.
Thrissur Zoo: A Blend of Wildlife and Culture
Beyond the wildlife, the zoo’s art museum features works from prominent artists, including wood carvings, metal sculptures, and other historic artifacts. The Natural History Museum, established in 1964, offers insights into zoological, paleontological, and ornithological studies. The museum also showcases the mounted skeleton of an elephant named Chengalloor Ranganathan. Some of the animals found here are tigers, lions, goats, sloth bears, monkeys, hippopotamuses, camels, pink flamingos, north-eastern hill Mithun, and lion-tailed macaques.
The Thrissur Zoo is 2 kilometers from downtown Thrissur and it operates from 9 AM to 5:15 PM but is closed on Mondays. Entrance fees are affordable, with adult tickets priced at INR 20 and child tickets at INR 5. There is an additional fee for using a camera, which allows visitors to capture memories of their visit. Visitors can expect to see a diverse range of species such as hippos, tigers, lions, and exotic birds, though some reviewers have noted that the zoo could benefit from improved maintenance and cleanliness.
As one of the two zoological parks in Kerala, it frequently sees many tourists. Despite its charming attractions, Thrissur Zoo lacks some essential amenities such as parking and pay-and-use washrooms, which could be inconvenient for visitors. However, with planned investments and facility upgrades, the zoo has the potential to become a premier attraction in Kerala. Looking to the future, the new zoo site, which will cover 306 acres near Puthur close to Peechi Dam, shows great promise for the expansion and enhancement of Thrissur’s zoological offerings.
FAQs
Entry Fee to Thrissur Zoo and State Museum
The entry fee for Thrissur Zoo varies from INR 20 for adults, INR 5 for children aged 4 to 12, INR 40 for families (parents with two children under 12), and INR 150 for groups of 35 students with 2 teachers.
In addition, there are charges for cameras: INR 25 for cameras, INR 100 for a handy cam, and INR 1500 for a professional video camera.
If you would like to visit the art museum inside the zoo, the entry fee varies from INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for children under 12 years of age, INR 20 for families (of father, mother, and two children under 12 years of age), and INR 100 for a group of 35 students and 2 teachers.
Best Time to Visit Thrissur Zoo and State Museum
The ideal time to explore Thrissur Zoo and the Museum is during the winter season when the weather is most pleasant. Summers, beginning in March and lasting through May, are typically more humid, making the winter months the ideal choice for a comfortable visit.
Things to Do at Thrissur Zoo and State Museum
Thrissur Zoo boasts a diverse array of fauna, making it a must-visit destination for animal enthusiasts exploring Thrissur. Additionally, the zoo features a botanical garden, open from 10 am to 5 pm, offering another delightful attraction for visitors to explore.
Getting to Thrissur Zoo and State Museum
Thrissur Zoo, situated in Chembukavu, is easily accessible via various modes of transportation. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, approximately 51 kilometers away, while Thrissur railway station, just 2 kilometers from the zoo, serves as the closest train stop.