Zoo in Jamshedpur – Tata Steel Zoological Park | Timing, Ticket, Flora and Fauna
Nestled in the heart of the industrial city of Jamshedpur, amid the hum of steel and the pulse of progress, lies a sanctuary that transports visitors into the untamed realms of nature—the Tata Steel Zoological Park. A jewel in the crown of Jharkhand, this expansive haven spans over 236 acres, offering a unique blend of wildlife conservation, biodiversity, and serene landscapes. Join me on an enchanting journey as we embark on a virtual safari through Tata Steel Zoological Park, unraveling the tales of fascinating fauna, dedicated conservation efforts, and the harmonious coexistence of industry and the wild.
Driven by a commitment to environmental responsibility, Tata Steel Ltd. envisioned a space to showcase India’s vibrant wildlife. Thus, the TSZP took root, initially nurturing a collection from the company’s private menagerie. On March 3rd, 1994, its gates swung open, marking a new chapter in Jamshedpur’s relationship with nature.
The early years saw the zoo blossom, welcoming a diversity of Indian and exotic species. Enclosures evolved, reflecting a growing understanding of animal welfare, transforming into spacious, naturalistic sanctuaries. Educational programs sprouted, whispering tales of conservation to captivated visitors. Hope blossomed too, with breeding programs for endangered species like the Indian pangolin taking root.
2022 marked the dawn of a new era. The remodeled TSZP emerged, showcasing state-of-the-art facilities. A nocturnal house beckoned with whispered secrets, while a dedicated reptile enclosure offered scaly encounters. Interactive exhibits sparked curiosity, and expanded educational initiatives embraced children and communities, weaving a stronger bond with the natural world.
Location of Tata Steel Zoological Park
The Tata Steel Zoological Park (TSZP) is located in the eastern Indian city of Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. Here are some specific details to pinpoint its location:
Address:
R57W+96F, Marine Dr Rd, near XLRI, Jubilee Park, Sakchi, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand 831001
Tata Zoo Park Entry Fee and Tickets
Visitor Category                        | Rates |
Adult | Rs. 30 per head |
Child (3 – 12 years) | Rs. 20 per head |
Groups Over 10 persons | Discount @ Rs. 5 per head |
Family ticket   | (Group of four with minimum one adult and one child in the group) Discount @ Rs 2.50 per head. |
Tata Zoo Park Timings
Regular Timings:
- Tuesday to Sunday:Â 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Monday:Â Closed
Best time to visit Tata Zoo Park
Choosing the best time to visit the Tata Steel Zoological Park (TSZP) depends on your preferences and priorities:
Weather:
- October to March:Â Pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures, ideal for exploring the zoo.
- April to May:Â Hotter temperatures, especially in the afternoon, make it less comfortable to be outdoors for long periods. Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat if visiting during this time.
- June to September:Â Monsoon season brings lush greenery but also unpredictable rainfall. Be prepared for sudden showers and consider carrying an umbrella.
Crowds:
- Weekdays:Â Generally less crowded than weekends or holidays, offering a more peaceful experience.
- Weekends and Holidays:Â Expect larger crowds, especially during peak season (December to February). Consider arriving early or planning your visit during off-peak hours.
Animal Activity:
- Mornings (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM):Â Animals are generally more active after their morning meals, making it an excellent time to see them exploring their enclosures.
- Late afternoons (4:00 PM – 5:00 PM):Â Animals become active again as the day cools. You might even catch them enjoying their evening meals.
Layout of Tata Zoo Park
Tata Steel Zoological Park in Jamshedpur spans over 236 acres, making it one of the largest zoos in the country.
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General Zones:
- Lion Safari Zone:Â Located at the entrance, offering a jeep safari experience through the lion enclosure.
- Herbivore Zone:Â Houses various Indian herbivores like deer, sambar, nilgai, and chinkara.
- Bird Zone:Â Features aviaries with diverse bird species like parrots, pheasants, and hornbills.
- Reptile Zone:Â Showcases snakes, lizards, turtles, and the gharial.
- Primate Zone:Â Home to monkeys like macaques and mandrills.
- Nocturnal House:Â Offers a glimpse into the lives of nocturnal animals like owls and bats.
Fauna of Tata Zoo Park
The Tata Steel Zoological Park (TSZP) houses a magnificent array of animals representing Indian and exotic species. Here’s a peek into its diverse fauna:
Indian Mammals:
- Herbivores:Â Sambar, spotted deer, chinkara, nilgai, blackbuck, Indian muntjac, sloth bear, Indian hog deer, gaur
- Carnivores:Â Tiger, leopard, striped hyena, jungle cat, jackal, Indian fox
- Primates:Â Rhesus macaque, bonnet macaque, Hanuman langur
Exotic Mammals:
- African lion, Grant’s zebra, hippopotamus, mandrill, chimpanzee
Birds:
- Over 36 species, including red-vented bulbul, purple sunbird, little cormorant, common coot, kingfisher, magpie robin, grey hornbill, parakeets, peacocks
Reptiles:
- Python, king cobra, krait, garden lizard, rat snake, gharial
Other:
- Fishes in Jayanti Sarovar lake
Flora of Tata Zoo Park
While the Tata Steel Zoological Park is primarily known for its diverse fauna, it also boasts a vibrant flora that enhances the visitor experience and is crucial in creating a healthy animal environment. Here’s a glimpse into the park’s botanical tapestry:
Diverse Ecosystems:
- Dry Deciduous Forest:Â The dominant ecosystem within the park, characterized by trees like teak, sal, and palas, shedding their leaves during the dry season.
- Riparian Zone:Â Flanking the Subarnarekha River, this zone features dense vegetation with trees like mango, jamun, and banyan, offering shade and attracting various bird species.
- Grasslands:Â Open areas interspersed throughout the park provide grazing grounds for herbivores like deer and nilgai.
Key Plant Species:
- Fruit Trees:Â Abundant fruit trees like guava, amla, jackfruit, and ber provide vital food sources for various animals and birds.
- Medicinal Plants:Â Species like neem, ashwagandha, and tulsi hold cultural and medicinal significance, contributing to the park’s biodiversity.
- Ornamental Plants:Â Flowering trees like cassia, bougainvillea, and gulmohar add splashes of color throughout the park, enhancing its visual appeal.
Fun activities at Tata Zoo Park
The Tata Steel Zoological Park offers more than just animal observation! Here are some fun activities to make your visit truly memorable:
- Picnic on the Lawn:Â Pack a delightful lunch and find a shady spot amidst the greenery to enjoy a relaxing picnic with family or friends.
- Boat Ride on Jayanti Sarovar:Â Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake, soaking in the scenic beauty and spotting water birds.
- Train Ride:Â Hop on the miniature train that meanders through the zoo, offering kids a different perspective and a fun ride.
- Interactive Exhibits:Â Check out the various interactive exhibits, like the touch pool where you can feel the smooth scales of fishes and turtles.
- Nature Interpretation Center:Â Learn about the local flora and fauna, conservation efforts, and the park’s history through informative exhibits and displays.
Places to Visit near Tata Zoo Park
Here are some exciting places you can visit near Tata Steel Zoological Park, catering to diverse interests and preferences:
- Sursagar Lake
- Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park
- Ajwa GardenÂ
- Ekal Bardi
- Maharaja Fatehsingh Rao Gaekwad Museum
- Baroda Museum and Picture Gallery
- BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir
- Inorbit Mall Vadodara
How to Reach Tata Zoo Park
Here are some general directions on how to reach the zoo:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Jamshedpur is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is approximately 150 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation to reach Jamshedpur.
By Train:
Jamshedpur has a well-connected railway station called Tatanagar Junction. You can take a train to Tatanagar and then use local transportation like taxis or auto-rickshaws to reach Tata Steel Zoological Park.
By Road:
Jamshedpur is well-connected by road. You can reach Jamshedpur by bus or car. The city has a good network of roads, and there are regular bus services from nearby cities. You can also hire a taxi or drive to Jamshedpur.
