Banerghatta Biological Park, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Located within the Banerghatta National Park, the Banerghatta Biological Park (BPP) has been specially built to make the young people aware about the natural environment. The main attractions here are the zoo, a butterfly park, animal safaris and boating. Park timings: 9.30am-5pm; closed on Tuesdays; animal safari timing: 10am-4.30pm. You can book tickets online (http://bannerghattabiologicalpark.org/).
Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary, Nadia, West Bengal
This small deer park has been carved out of a natural forest that lies about 140km north of Kolkata. Visit the park early in the day or later in the afternoon, when you are more likely to see the spotted deer. Park timings: 9am-4pm; closed from noon to 2pm. Ticketed entry. For safety reasons, do not stray off the demarcated tourist trail. Beware of monkeys. One of the lakes is home to a few gharials. Limited food options; better carry a picnic hamper. On the way back, you can stop at Krishnagar, an hour’s drive towards Kolkata, to partake of the famous local sweets, sarpuriya and sarbhaja.
Pulicat Lake, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
This lake-based bird sanctuary is said to be the second largest brackish water lagoon in India. It is about 90km from Chennai. Boat rides offered by local fishermen but settle on a price before the trip. You are likely to see flamingos in January. You can also visit the Lighthouse; 150-stairs to the top; open 3-5pm.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Located on the north end of Mumbai, the main entrance is at Borivali. The park offers several activities—mini train rides, boating, and lion safaris. Contact the Nature Information Centre for guided treks inside the park. You can also drive up to the 2000-year old sculpted caves of Kanheri located inside the park. Park timings: 7.30am to 6.30pm; no activities are available on Mondays and during lunch hour (1.30pm-2.30pm). You can book tickets online (https://sgnp.maharashtra.gov.in) to beat the queue.
State Zoo and Botanical Garden, Guwahati, Assam
The largest zoo in north-eastern India, it is partly a natural forest. It is located in the heart of the Guwahati city. The zoo is home to several species endemic to the region as well as rare and endangered animals. Explore the botanical garden, visit the museum and reptile house, etc. The zoo and botanical garden is maintained by the state government’s Department of Environment and Forests (http://assamforest.in/).
Van Vihar National Park, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
Located adjacent to Bhopal’s Upper Lake, the zoological park is a good place to see the animals in a natural habitat setting. It covers a huge area and can be seen on a drive-through. Many visitors have given a high rating to the snake museum. Ticketed entry. Park remains closed on Fridays.
Information: Park timings/days of operation/entry charges are subject to change. Check with local tourist offices before visiting. Remember to carry drinking water, some light snacks and caps (sun protection). Do not litter. Do not try to feed the animals.