Welcome to the enchanting world of Mysore Zoo, also known as Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens. Established in 1892 by Maharaja Chamaraja Wodeyar, it is one of the oldest zoos in India and among the most beautifully maintained in all of Asia.
A Royal Legacy
Spread across 157 acres in the heart of Mysore, the zoo began as a private menagerie of the royal family. Today it houses more than 168 species from over 25 countries — from African elephants and giraffes to the majestic Bengal tiger.
The White Peacock
Among its most photographed residents is the white peacock, a leucistic marvel whose fanned display looks like frost turned into feathers. Watching one unfurl its train in the morning light is an experience that stays with you long after you leave the gates.
Conservation at Heart
Mysore Zoo runs one of India's most successful adoption programmes, where visitors can sponsor an animal's care. Its breeding programmes for endangered species like the Indian gaur and grey wolf have earned international recognition.
If your travels take you to Karnataka, set aside a full morning for this place. Arrive early, walk slowly, and let the oldest zoo in southern India show you why it has charmed visitors for more than a century.
