The Andaman Islands are a safe haven for a variety of birds, animals, reptiles and plant species. Most of these species are endemic to the region while some migratory species (birds like sandpipers and plovers) also find refuge during the winter months on these islands. To offer various species of land and avifauna a space, a Mini Zoo was set up in Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) in 1967. However, the space was limited, leaving no room for extension and diversification or modernisation.
There was a need for a zoological park in the capital city that isn’t just for displaying animals and birds for recreational purposes. It was equally significant to provide meaningful information and educate visitors about wildlife. In addition, letting them observe and learn about their habitats and larger roles in the ecosystem will enhance their knowledge. There was also a need to promote scientific research and conservation on animal behaviour, breeding and population dynamics. These were some of the points that were used as a roadmap for setting up the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park.
If you’re planning an Andaman tour and want to watch, learn and observe animal and bird species, add Chidiya Tapu Biological Park in your itinerary.
When was Chidiya Tapu Biological Park Established?
After 20 years of research and planning, the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park was finally established in 2001. The main objective of establishing this Biological Park was to protect and conserve the endangered and indigenous species found on Andaman and Nicobar Island. Spanning across an area of 40 hectares, the biological park is covered in tropical evergreen trees and has flat pathways. The biological park is forested with Mahuas, rubber and Padukas trees. These three most common trees found in this park create thick canopies that offer shade to the visitors.
What to Expect at Chidiya Tapu Biological Park?
Chidiya Tapu Biological Park is a feast for the senses for anyone who likes to spend time in the vicinity of nature. Wildlife lovers, botanists, plant and nature lovers would love visiting this park. If you are touring Andaman with your family, the kids would love to spend their time. An interesting thing about this park is that only wild animals like saltwater crocodiles and monitor lizards are kept in ponds with barricading. The rest of animals like Andaman wild pig, spotted deer or barking deer roam freely in the park.
Don’t be surprised if you see many spotted deer and barking deer moving around freely. After all, it’s their territory. Do not chase, hail or disturb them. Let them simply pass by. Besides animals, there are also a number of bird species and reptiles that draw the attention of visitors.
The most common birds spotted at Chidiya Tapu Biological Park are: Red Collared Dove, Plume-toed Swiftlet, Asian Koel, Andaman Serpent Eagle, Andaman Pigeon, Andaman Coucal. You will also spot some White Bellied Sea Eagle and Andaman Drongo.
A pro tip: carry a pair of binoculars or HD camera to watch and click photos of these magnificent birds.
When you walk through the park, a natural earthy and woody odor permeates the surrounding area. Moments of extreme silence are often interrupted by the varying buzzing of insects. You will be walking a lot so make sure to wear your hiking shoes. The surroundings of the pathways are blanketed by mosses and lichens. Visit the Orchid Garden that houses a lot of beautiful indigenous orchid species. If you visit this Biological Park during the spring season, you will also see lotus flowers blooming in a huge lotus pond.
There are some parts of the park that are still under construction. The plans of further expansions are still in process. In future, the Biological Park will also have an insectarium, a reptile house, a butterfly house, an aquarium, and a walk-in Aviary.
How to Reach Chidiya Tapu Biological Park from Sri Vijaya Puram?
This Biological Park enjoys a good transport facility and roadway link from Sri Vijaya Puram. Therefore, travelling here is super easy and accessible. The Chidiya Tapu Biological Park is approximately 25 kilometres from the main city centre.
- A bus from Sri Vijaya Puram ply every one hour for Chidiya Tapu Biological Park.
- You may also use a rented vehicle (Car/bike) which will take 30 to 35 minutes to reach from the main city centre.
- You can also hire a taxi and visit the Chidiya Tapu Biological Park.
What facilities are available at Chidiya Tapu Biological Park?
Chidiya Tapu Biological Park offers all the basic facilities for visitors, that includes:
- Availability of drinking water.
- Functional Toilets.
- Sitting arrangements include benches and sheds that are scattered all around the park at some distance.
- Clear signages for directions.
What is and isn’t allowed in Chidiya Tapu Biological Park?
Any type of large bags, eatables, drinks, plastic items, aluminum cans etc. are not allowed inside the park. However, visitors are allowed to carry a water bottle, wallets/ purses, and mobile phones.
Timings & Entry Fee of Chidiya Tapu Biological Park
- The Chidiya Tapu Biological Park opens from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM. It remains closed on Mondays.
- The nominal entry fee of Chidiya Tapu Biological Park is INR 25/- per person.
A visit to Chidiya Tapu Biological Park in Sri Vijaya Puram not only takes you close to nature but also lets you appreciate the wilderness. Add Chidiya Tapu Biological Park to your Andaman tour package to watch and observe beautiful plants, animals and bird species.
