Walk into the wild: A new world opens at Puthur Zoological Park

Nature lovers, children, and wildlife enthusiasts now have a brand-new destination to explore as the sprawling Thrissur Zoological Park at Puthur opened its gates to the public on February 28 (Saturday), ushering in a fresh era of conservation and eco-tourism in Keralam.

Set amidst a vast natural landscape, the park invites visitors to walk with nature and experience the wilderness up close. The inaugural morning saw Forest and Wildlife Minister A.K. Saseendran and Revenue and Housing Minister K. Rajan among the first visitors, marking a historic moment for the State.

The new park fulfils a long-pending vision — relocating the century-old zoo from its cramped Chembukkavu premises to an expansive, habitat-rich environment. Officials describe it as a project born out of strong governmental will and a commitment to modern conservation values.

‘Zoo without bars’

Designed by internationally acclaimed zoo architect Jon Coe, the park redefines the very idea of a zoo. Conceptualised as a “zoo without bars,” it replaces cages with carefully recreated natural habitats, allowing animals to thrive in environments that mirror their native ecosystems while offering visitors an immersive wilderness experience.

Spread across 338 acres, the park features nine thematic zones and a dedicated conservation area. Each zone represents a distinct ecological region — from arid landscapes to mist-laden shola grasslands — making every stretch of the park feel like a journey through diverse habitats of India.

Animals from the old Thrissur Zoo have already been relocated to the new facility, with plans underway to introduce more species from across India and abroad, further enriching its biodiversity.

The park will be open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with Mondays observed as a holiday, in line with other zoological parks. Entry tickets are priced at ₹100 for adults, ₹30 for children aged 5 to 12, and ₹50 for senior citizens, while entry remains free for persons with disabilities.

Special concession packages are available for student groups arriving in school uniform with prior permission from the head of the institution. Entry is free for students from kindergarten to Class IV, while those from Classes V to XII can enter at a concessional rate of ₹30. One teacher or staff member will be allowed for every 20 students at the same rate.

Parking fees are ₹25 for two-wheelers, ₹30 for autorickshaws, ₹100 for cars and jeeps, ₹175 for vans, tempos, or mini buses (up to 32 seats), and ₹250 for buses. Charges for still cameras and video cameras are fixed at ₹350 and ₹750 respectively, while cloakroom service costs ₹25.

To enhance mobility within the park, two non-AC electric buses operated by KSRTC have been deployed. The ride costs ₹50 for adults and ₹25 for children between 5 and 12, offering a comfortable and eco-friendly way to explore the vast sanctuary.

More than just a zoo, the Puthur Zoological Park emerges as a living landscape of coexistence — where conservation meets experience, and every trail promises a closer encounter with the wild.