Jammu, July 14: The North India’s largest zoo, Jamboo Zoo, has witnessed a significant influx of Amarnath yatris visiting the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir. With approximately 700 to 800 pilgrims arriving daily, the zoo has become a major attraction for tourists from various parts of the country.
The number of Amarnath yatris visiting Jamboo Zoo has been steadily increasing, prompting the overwhelmed Wildlife Department to plan a collaboration with the Tourism Department to further promote the zoo and attract more tourists.
Although a considerable number of yatris have been visiting the zoo since the commencement of the holy pilgrimage, the rush intensified after the suspension of the yatra due to inclement weather conditions.
“The number of Amarnath yatris coming to Jamboo Zoo has seen a substantial rise in the last few days,” stated DFO Amit Sharma. He further added, “It is not only the Amarnath yatris but also a large number of other people who have been visiting Jamboo Zoo.”
The surge in visitors to Jamboo Zoo bodes well for Jammu’s tourism industry, and the Wildlife Department is eager to collaborate with the Tourism Department to capitalize on this opportunity.
“We will approach the Tourism Department and work together to attract more people to Jamboo Zoo,” confirmed the DFO.
Named after the former king of Jammu, Jamboo Lochan, the zoo was inaugurated on May 29 by the Lieutenant Governor (LG) of J&K UT, Manoj Sinha. The zoo, conceptualized in 2016, initially allowed free entry for one month.
On its opening day, Jamboo Zoo welcomed an impressive 4,000 visitors. The DFO predicts that visitor numbers will continue to rise, particularly on weekends, once major attractions such as the Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, Black Buck, and other species from different states are introduced to the zoo. These species are expected to arrive next month when the weather becomes favorable for their transfer.
Situated on the outskirts of Jammu city in the Khanpur area of Nagrota, Jamboo Zoo spans over an expansive 3,200 kanals. It currently features 17 species of animals, and additional captivating species will join in once suitable climatic conditions prevail.
In addition to its diverse animal population, Jamboo Zoo offers an open amusement theater, a children’s park, and a small water body. To enhance visitors’ convenience, battery-operated cars and bicycles are available for use within the zoo premises.
