Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Delhi Zoo






My visit to Kuwait Zoo made me relate it with Delhi Zoo which I visited during my recent visit to the city. The National Zoological Park of Delhi or Delhi Zoo as it is popularly known is located next to Purana Qila (Old Fort), on its southern side. I had been to Delhi many times, but it was my first visit to the zoo. I was impressed by the area of the zoo which is spread in an extensive area of 214 acres. Established in 1959, it is regarded as one of the finest zoos in Asia. What was satisfying was to see, efforts been made to provide an almost natural habitat to the animals and birds. There are more than 2,000 animals and bird species from places like Africa, America, Australia and even Asia. There is a lot of greenery around the zoo and the timings for summer is 0800 to 1800 hours and winter is 0900 to 1700 hours. It remains close on Friday. The Delhi Zoo houses over one thousand varieties of animals, reptiles and birds. It also has nearly all varieties of deer found in the country. Said to be one of the better laid out zoological parks of the country, Delhi Zoo is also a favorite destination of migrant birds. In winter the large lake at the entrance of Delhi zoo is thronged with numerous winter visitors including, storks, ducks and other migrant water birds. The white tiger from Rewa, the elephant, which plays a harmonica and the leopard, are some of its highlights apart from the many endangered species of India seen in the park. The best way to explore Delhi Zoo is on foot; though battery operated vehicles are also available for nominal charges. The whole zoo can be seen in three-four hours on foot if one follows the guiding arrow signs placed in the park. There is also a canteen in the zoo where you can refresh yourself before continuing your expedition. The zoo has basic facilities for visitors like drinking water counters at various places in the park. Outside the zoo there are lots of restaurants.
But what will attract you the moment you enter the campus is the massive crowd who have come to visit the zoo. Whether it is the ticket counter, or the entrance or moving around in the zoo; you will have to flow with the crowd. Plastic packet and food is not allowed inside, and the authorities are very strict about it. So be careful. They did not allow me to carry my baby’s food. Only after lot of persuasion, they allowed me to take her bottle of milk.
Anyhow we will cherish our visit.

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