Zoo In India

Sarthana Zoo

The Sarthana Zoo of Surat is one of the most popular attractions of Gujarat. Known for its exotic animal species, this zoo is not only visited by the local people of the city but the tourists as well. The zoo is located on the North Eastern corner of the city and spread in an area of 81 acres. On the northern end of the zoo is the Tapi River which enhances the appeal of the location and seeks the attention of the people. On the south end you have the Surat Kamrej road that provides all means of transportation to reach the zoo. The entire zoo is covered with trees of Mango, Eucalyptus and Casurina.

History

Before 1984, there was no zoo in the city and therefore the students had no idea about what wildlife is. Keeping in mind this fact the Municipal Corporation of Surat city decided that they will develop a zoo near the Tapi River as it was flourished with lots of greenery and vegetation. This is how the foundation of the Sarthana Zoo was laid down and today it is one of the most visited places in the city and tourists come here in large numbers to enjoy and explore a variety of wildlife species.

Important Things to Keep in Mind

1. The entry fee for the park is Rs 20 per person and no fee for children below 12 years
2. The zoo is open on all the days from morning 10:00 to 06:00 in the evening
3. Do not give any kind of food to the animals or tease them
4. Keep the premises clean by throwing all the garbage in the dustbins
5. In order to enjoy the zoo, you should go on foot but in case you are unable to walk there are adequate arrangements for the same
6. Wheelchair facility is also available
7. Keep away from the animals and ask the kids to follow the guidelines strictly
8. The information about the animal is provided outside the cage
9. Try to bring minimum luggage and submit the same at the entrance. You will be provided with the token as well
10. You are not allowed to carry any eatables. There are a few refreshment points where you can enjoy snacks and drinks
11. Collect the zoo map from the entrance or the guide is available at short distances too
12. Adequate arrangement of drinking water has been done
13. Medical aid facility is available in case you meet an accident
14. Follow all the instructions carefully to enjoy the zoo

Best Time to Visit the Zoo

Though the zoo can be visited all the year round but the early winters are considered to be the best. The weather is pleasant and you will be able to explore several kinds of animals, birds and other species.

Wildlife

The Sarthana Zoo has hundreds of different species that grab the attention of the people. Some of the animals that you will come across in the zoo are lion, tiger, panther, chinkara, emu, black buck, otter, hog deer, samber, four horned antelope and many more. You also have various species of birds including stock, dove, macow, lorry dusky, parrots, peacock etc. In the reptiles you will find crocodiles, python, snakes, gharial etc. The list is endless as there is a lot to explore in the zoo.

How to Reach

Reaching the Sarthana Zoo is quite easy as it is well connected to both rail and road. The zoo is just 10 kms from Surat and 8 from national highway so one can easily reach here. The railway station and bus stand are close by so one can avail that option too.

Map