Are you looking for a place where you can enjoy the beauty and diversity of nature, while also learning about the conservation and welfare of wildlife? If yes, then you should visit the Kanpur Zoological Park, also known as Allen Forest Zoo, on your next trip to Kanpur. The Kanpur Zoological Park is one of the most popular and oldest zoos in India, and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves wildlife and nature. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Kanpur Zoological Park, such as its history, features, conservation, tips, and more.
History of Kanpur Zoological Park
The Kanpur Zoological Park was established in 1971 by Sir Allen, a British industrialist and philanthropist, who donated his private forest land to the government for the purpose of creating a zoo. The zoo was designed by a German architect and landscaper, who planned the open enclosures and the natural habitats for the animals. The zoo was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, and was named after Sir Allen. The zoo has since undergone many changes and expansions, such as the addition of new animals, the construction of the lake, the botanical garden, the aquarium, the toy train, the library, etc. The zoo has also witnessed some historical events, such as the birth of the first white tiger in captivity, the rescue of the last surviving Asiatic cheetah, the visit of the Dalai Lama, etc.
Features of Kanpur Zoological Park
The Kanpur Zoological Park has many features that make it a unique and enjoyable place to visit. Some of the features are:
- The Lake: The zoo has a beautiful and large lake, where visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, or birdwatching. The lake is also home to many aquatic animals, such as crocodiles, turtles, fish, etc.
- The Botanical Garden: The zoo has a lush and diverse botanical garden, where visitors can admire the flora and fauna of the region. The garden has many plants, flowers, trees, herbs, etc., some of which are rare and endangered. The garden also has a butterfly park, a cactus house, a medicinal plant section, etc.
- The Aquarium: The zoo has a modern and well-equipped aquarium, where visitors can see the marine life of the world. The aquarium has many tanks, exhibits, and displays, featuring various fish, coral, sharks, dolphins, etc. The aquarium also has a touch pool, where visitors can interact with some of the animals.
- The Toy Train: The zoo has a fun and exciting toy train, that runs around the zoo and offers a scenic and panoramic view of the zoo and its surroundings. The toy train is a great way to explore the zoo and see the animals from a different perspective.
- The Library: The zoo has a rich and informative library, where visitors can learn more about the zoo and its animals. The library has many books, magazines, journals, etc., on various topics, such as wildlife, conservation, ecology, etc. The library also has a digital section, where visitors can access the internet, watch documentaries, play games, etc.
Conservation efforts of Kanpur Zoological Park
The Kanpur Zoological Park is not only a place of entertainment, but also a place of conservation. The zoo is involved in many conservation and breeding programs, to protect and preserve the wildlife and their habitats. Some of the programs are:
- The Vulture Conservation Center: The zoo has a dedicated center for the conservation of vultures, which are facing a severe decline due to poisoning, habitat loss, and human interference. The center has a captive breeding facility, a veterinary hospital, a research laboratory, and an education center, to help the vultures recover and thrive.
- The White Tiger Breeding Center: The zoo has a special center for the breeding of white tigers, which are a rare and endangered variant of the Bengal tiger. The center has a large and natural enclosure, where the white tigers can mate and raise their cubs. The center also has a museum, where visitors can learn about the history and genetics of the white tigers.
- The Deer Park: The zoo has a large and green park, where various species of deer can roam freely and peacefully. The park has many deer, such as spotted deer, sambar deer, barking deer, etc. The park also has a watch tower, where visitors can observe and feed the deer.
Tips for visiting Kanpur Zoological Park
The Kanpur Zoological Park is a wonderful place to visit, but there are some things that visitors should keep in mind, to make their visit more enjoyable and safe. Some of the tips are:
- The zoo is open from 9 am to 5 pm, except on Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee is Rs. 50 for adults and Rs. 20 for children. The zoo also accepts donations, which are used for the maintenance and welfare of the animals.
- The zoo has a strict plastic ban, to prevent the pollution and harm to the animals and the environment. Visitors are not allowed to bring any plastic items, such as bags, bottles, wrappers, etc., inside the zoo. Visitors are advised to use eco-friendly alternatives, such as cloth bags, metal bottles, paper wrappers, etc.
- The zoo does not allow the feeding of the animals, as it can cause health problems and behavioral issues for the animals. Visitors are requested to respect the animals and their diets, and not to offer them any food or snacks. Visitors can buy animal feed from the zoo authorities, if they want to feed the animals in a supervised and safe manner.
- The zoo allows the photography of the animals, but with some restrictions and rules. Visitors are not allowed to use flash, loud noises, or any other means that can disturb or scare the animals. Visitors are also not allowed to touch, tease, or harass the animals, or to cross the barriers or fences. Visitors are advised to follow the instructions and guidelines of the zoo staff, and to be respectful and responsible towards the animals and their habitats.
Best time to visit Kanpur Zoological Park
The best time to visit the Kanpur Zoological Park is during the winter season, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The zoo is also less crowded and more peaceful during this time. The summer season, from April to June, is very hot and humid, and the monsoon season, from July to September, is very wet and slippery, making it difficult and uncomfortable to visit the zoo.
Nearby attractions of Kanpur Zoological Park
The Kanpur Zoological Park is not the only attraction in Kanpur. There are many other places to visit and explore in the city, such as:
- Shri Radhakrishna Temple: A beautiful and serene temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. The temple is famous for its architecture, sculptures, paintings, and gardens.
- Moti Jheel: A scenic and tranquil lake, surrounded by parks, gardens, and fountains. The lake is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and relaxation.
- Kanpur Memorial Church: A historic and majestic church, built by the British in memory of the soldiers who died in the 1857 revolt. The church is known for its Gothic style, stained glass windows, and marble memorials.
- Nana Rao Park: A large and green park, named after Nana Rao, one of the leaders of the 1857 revolt. The park has a statue of Nana Rao, a museum, a library, and a children's play area.
- Kanpur Museum: A museum that showcases the history, culture, and art of Kanpur and its surroundings. The museum has many exhibits, artifacts, paintings, sculptures, etc., related to various themes, such as the 1857 revolt, the freedom struggle, the industrial development, etc.
Places to stay near Kanpur Zoological Park
If you want to stay near the Kanpur Zoological Park, there are many options to choose from, depending on your budget and preference. Some of the places to stay are:
- The Landmark Hotel: A luxury and elegant hotel, located near the zoo and the railway station. The hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, with modern amenities and services. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a gym, a pool, etc.
- Hotel Royal Cliff: A cozy and affordable hotel, located near the zoo and the airport. The hotel offers clean and cozy rooms, with basic amenities and services. The hotel also has a restaurant, a cafe, a banquet hall, etc.
- OYO 28082 Hotel R S International: A budget and friendly hotel, located near the zoo and the bus stand. The hotel offers decent and comfortable rooms, with essential amenities and services. The hotel also has a restaurant, a parking, a power backup, etc.
Conclusion
Kanpur Zoological Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves wildlife and nature. The zoo offers a unique and memorable experience, where visitors can see and interact with a variety of animals, plants, and attractions. The zoo also plays an important role in the conservation and education of the wildlife and their habitats. The zoo is a perfect place to spend a day with your family and friends, and to learn and have fun at the same time. So, what are you waiting for?
