Bengaluru Zoos to Raise Entry Fee by 20 percent Amid Green Overhaul
Bengaluru’s major zoological parks have received approval to increase entry fees by 20%, rising from ₹100 to ₹120, as part of a green upgrade strategy. Park authorities plan to channel these funds into sustainable infrastructure — including solar installations and water recycling — and boost educational, wildlife conservation, and social inclusion initiatives. Safari ticket rates remain unchanged to maintain equitable access while modernising operations.
Bengaluru’s two flagship zoological parks are embarking on a new financial strategy as park authorities advocate a 20% hike in entry charges. With the move sanctioned during a recent governance meeting, these iconic parks are positioning themselves as self-sustaining, green-managed hubs that blend conservation, climate action, and community engagement. Currently priced at ₹100, single-entry tickets for both parks will now rise to ₹120. This adjustment, first proposed by zoo administrators, follows careful deliberation with officials overseeing nature and wildlife. Although a steeper 50% hike was originally considered, a balanced decision was achieved, ensuring continued inclusivity while fuelling investment in sustainable operations.
Park leadership emphasised that these funds will directly underwrite essential enhancements, including renewable energy installations, water recycling systems, and habitat enrichment projects. Plans are also underway to deploy solar arrays across park facilities, harnessing zero carbon electricity to power lighting, ticketing and visitor services, seamlessly aligning operations with Bengaluru’s green city targets. Beyond infrastructure, the increased revenue will aid wildlife conservation, educational programmes, and apprenticeships. Park officials noted that capacity-building initiatives for zookeepers, particularly female staff, will receive a boost—ensuring equitable opportunities and fostering a gender-neutral workforce within the parks.
From an urban mobility perspective, revenue from the fee hike is being allocated to improve connectivity, including EV shuttle integration, upgraded pedestrian pathways, and enhanced bicycle parking. These adjustments aim to discourage carbon-intensive commuting and promote clean, shared transport for visitors, supporting the city’s broader decarbonisation agenda. Notably, while visitor entry fees are rising, safari charges remain unchanged to preserve appeal. The safari experiences are popular among families and school groups; maintaining those rates reflects the parks’ commitment to social equity. Transparency remains central to the initiative, with plans for public dashboards detailing revenue use and environmental outcomes.
Overall, Bengaluru’s strategy aims to set a benchmark for eco-aware zoological institutions in India. By aligning financial discipline with environmental stewardship, these parks exemplify a model that integrates zero emissions, habitat preservation, and gender equity. If successful, this approach could redefine urban green infrastructure management nationwide.
