National
Zoological Park or the Delhi Zoo is one of the finest zoos in Asia and
is situated close to Purana Qila or Old Fort. It extends over a massive
area of 214 acres and was established in 1959. It aims to provide
natural habitat to more than 2,000 animals and birds species that have
been brought here from different parts of India as well as other
continents such as Africa, America, Australia, etc. Delhi Zoo proves to
be an idyllic picnic spot in winters. The serenity and the greenery here
seem very pleasing and offer a delightful respite from the humdrum of
the city. The winding pathways lead to the administrative building, with a library on the right side, where you can get all the information on animals, birds, plants and rare zoological species in India. Visitors, especially children, love to see Chimpanzee, Hippopotamus, Spider monkey, African Wild Buffalo, Gir Lion and Zebras, water animals and birds such as Macaque, Banteng, Emu, Hyenas, Axis Deer, Fallow Deer, Peafowl, Hog Deer and the Jaguar. The underground Reptile Home Complex displays a wide array of snakes such as King Cobra & Pythons.
Besides these, there are more than 200 varieties of trees here, including the hanging deep yellow Alamtas Hedges, the drought resistant Lahura trees and the native Delhi Bistendu. Delhi Zoo also has an early 17th century Kos Minar, which was built by Jehangir, son of Emperor Akbar. You can admire the vast expanse of the Zoological Park, as you climb up the red sandstone gate. The Zoo is an all time favorite amongst the children. It offers facilities like mobile vans and cafeteria for food, drinking water and parks to rest. You can visit the zoo throughout the year on all days, except Monday.