Jammu has received a significant boost to its tourism potential with the inauguration of the ambitious Jambu Zoo near Nagrota on the outskirts of the city. The zoo, named after the founder of Jammu City, King Jambu Lochan, opened its doors to the public on May 29th, offering a captivating experience for visitors.
Situated on the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, the Jambu Zoo spans an expansive 3200 kanals of land, making it the largest zoo in North India. Its strategic location along a popular travel route ensures that it will become a prominent tourist attraction for those visiting Kashmir or the revered Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine in Katra.
The zoo boasts an array of features designed to captivate visitors. One of its highlights is an impressive artificial waterfall that adds to the scenic beauty of the surroundings. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to encounter 27 renowned species of animals, including majestic creatures such as Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Lions, leopards, bears, and crocodiles. The diverse collection of animals promises to provide an immersive experience and promote awareness about wildlife conservation.
While the infrastructure of the zoo currently occupies 1200 kanals, plans for further expansion are already in place. This signifies the project’s long-term vision, ensuring that it will continue to evolve and grow in the future. To enhance the overall experience for visitors, the zoo will also feature an open amusement theatre and a dedicated park for children. Battery-operated vehicles will be available for visitors to conveniently navigate the expansive grounds.
Recognizing the potential of the zoo as a major tourist attraction, the facility’s management has decided to offer free entry to visitors during its inaugural week. This strategic move aims to encourage a high turnout of visitors and generate widespread interest in the zoo. By providing complimentary access, the organizers hope to popularize the Jambu Zoo and establish it as a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
The completion of the Jambu Zoo project, valued at 70 crore rupees, is a significant milestone for Jammu’s tourism industry. In mid-May, the project concluded, and it subsequently underwent an inspection by a team from the Central Zoo Authority for registration purposes. This step ensures compliance with necessary regulations and validates the efforts put forth by the Jammu and Kashmir government’s Department of Wildlife.
As Jammu opens its doors to this captivating zoological facility, it heralds a new era for tourism in the region. The Jambu Zoo’s rich collection of animals, coupled with its picturesque setting and amenities, promises to attract a diverse range of visitors. This exciting addition to Jammu’s tourism landscape is poised to leave a lasting impression on tourists, fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife and contributing to the overall growth of the region’s tourism sector.
