Thrissur Zoo, Kerala: Ticket Price, Timing, Information

Kerala is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. Owing to its natural beauty, friendly locals, and delectable food, this state has made its mark in the hearts of millions of travellers across the globe. As a result, people are keen on exploring Kerala and its hidden treasures on their next vacation. Be it the backwaters in Allepey or tea gardens in Munnar, there are so many places to visit in Kerala that one trip would just not be enough! If it is your firm time visiting this part of the country, then you are in a refreshing surprise. This is mainly because of the distinctive characteristics of this southern state that makes it the perfect vacation spot. After being stuck at home for almost two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, having a blissful time in Kerala would ease your body and mind. One thing that you should note while travelling around this state is taking out some time to visit the Thrissur Zoo. Also known as the State Museum and Zoo, this is the perfect place for people from all age groups to appreciate nature at its finest. Mentioned below are details about this zoological park:

History of the Zoo 

Situated in Thrissur, this zoological park was constructed in 1885. During this era, this area was a part of the Kingdom of Cochin that was ruled over by Diwans. Originally, the Diwan Peshkar of Cochin Province Mr Sankarayya had established the Viyoor Park, very close to the Central Prison area. As fate would have it, this zoological park had to be shut down due to the lack of daily visitors. However, this did not demotivate the local government as they wanted to highlight the wildlife of their kingdom. As a result, this park was renamed the Cochin State Museum by the acting Diwan, K. Narayana Marar in the year 1912. However, it had to be shifted in the same year to Chembukkavu where it still stands today as the Thrissur Zoo.

This zoological park was officially opened by 1913 with a variety of animals that had been donated by the King of Cochin from the Thrippunithura Palace. The main reason for building this zoo in the heart of the city was to provide clean and fresh air to the people. In today’s times, the expansion of this zoological park is taking place by developing a new zoo in Puthur. The purpose of this development is to increase the zoo from 13.5 acres to 306 acres so that endangered species in the Western Ghats can be protected in a better manner.

Flora and Fauna 

While visiting the State Museum & Zoo in Thrissur, you will come to realize that the people of Kerala are well-informed about natural resources and how to preserve them properly. This can be seen in the photos of Thrissur Zoo as the entire zoological park is free from littering done by visitors. It highlights the respect that the local population has for the plants, birds, and animals in their region. Thus, it is imperative that you follow suit and maintain cleanliness while visiting this zoological park in Thrissur. The animals found inside the Thrissur Zoo are Sambar deer, spotted deer, camel, cobra, Indian peafowl, purple heron, etc. when it comes to wildlife, then you will be able to spot lions, tigers, leopards, crocodiles, and the like. Birdwatchers can be in for a delightful experience as the Thrissur Zoo hosts the Pink Pelican, Emu, Hornbill, African Grey Parrot, and many more!

The Botanical Garden is situated within this zoological park’s premises with a variety of trees like Simsipa Pala indigo, Camphor, Cannon Ball, Rose Apple Sapota, Poison Nut, Asoka, and Bottle Brush. The most precious part of this zoo is where the butterflies reside. You can spot unique and colourful butterflies like the Blue Mormon, Common Mime, Southern Birdwing, Mottled Emigrant, among several others, flying around on the campus.

Timings and Ticket Price

When you enter the State Museum and Zoo in Thrissur, the first thing you will notice is the multi-purpose museum where stuffed animals and skeletons can be seen. Along with this, you will find ancient weapons like the Manavu inside this museum. Musical instruments, life-sized Kathakali statues, and various other cultural artefacts are displayed here as well. The most spectacular specimen that you should see is the skeleton of an elephant named “Chengalloor Ranganathan”.

The opening time of the museum in the Thrissur Zoo is 10 am and the closing time is 4.30 pm. The entry fee for people above the age of 12 is Rs. 10 only. Right behind the museum is the 3D theatre where you can watch exciting movies and documentaries about animals. You will have to pay Rs. 60 for a person above 12 years and Rs. 30 for children below 12 years of age to get admission. After visiting these places, the main attraction that you will get to explore is the zoological garden of the Thrissur Zoo. The entry fee for persons aged 12 years and above is Rs. 20 while those who are younger than them only need to pay Rs. 5. Families can also take a combined ticket priced at Rs. 40 for the Thrissur Zoo tour. Additional charges are levied on still cameras and video cameras as well. Timings of the Thrissur Zoological Park are 9. 30 am to 5.15 pm every day, except Wednesday when the area can be explored only between 1 am and 4.30 pm. The entire complex is closed on all Mondays and major holidays.

Best Time to Visit 

Kerala is a state that has a tropical climate during the summer months between May and September. Keeping this in mind, it would be best to plan your Kerala tour package in the winter. The ideal months to visit the Thrissur Zoo are between October and March when the temperatures are pleasant, and a lot of wildlife can be seen out in the open. You will have a gala time with your friends and family during this time of the year as the humidity levels will be low. Remember to carry water bottles and snacks in a daypack so that you are well satiated throughout the tour. Moreover, you can plan your vacation during the annual festival held between October 2-8 where competitions and events are organised inside the zoo for the amusement of tourists and locals alike.

Places to See Nearby 

Thrissur is one of the most sought-after places to explore in Kerala. After visiting the State Museum & Zoo in Thrissur, you can also explore the places mentioned below:

Shakthan Thampuran Palace

A magnificent palace located only 2.5 km from Thrissur Bus Stand, it is now converted into a museum displaying artefacts from the era of King Ramavarma Thampuram of Cochin. Timings of this palace are 9.30 to 4.30 pm from Tuesday to Sunday as it is closed on Mondays. The entry fee for adults is Rs. 10 and Rs. 5 for children. Additional charges of Rs. 30 must be paid for using cameras inside the palace complex.

Punnathur Kotta

The erstwhile palace that is now used as a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to elephants, Punnathur Kotta is a unique tourist attraction that should be on your itinerary. You can observe elephants getting trained for various regional events and festivals here. The entry fee per person is Rs. 10 and timings are 9 am to 5 pm respectively.

Athirappilly Waterfalls

Trekking in Kerala can be best experienced at these mesmerizing waterfalls located 60 km from the city centre. Colloquially termed as the “Niagara Falls of India”, Athirappilly waterfalls are a must-visit place near Thrissur.

Dolours Basilica

Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours is a historical building where discussions of faith and religion are highly engaging and informative. It is located 1.6 from the Thrissur Bus Stand, so you can take walk down or take a rickshaw. There are no entry charges at this Catholic Church.

Talk about visiting a zoo and it turning into a full-fledged vacay! Make sure to visit the Thrissur Zoo the next time you land in God’s Own Country!