🐯 What Makes Shivamogga Zoo Unique?

Shivamogga Zoo & Safari blends a classic zoo visit with an open safari experience where visitors can spot lions, tigers, and other wildlife up close. The facility focuses on wildlife conservation education as well as offering an enjoyable family outing with natural-like animal enclosures. It’s located on the way to popular Jog Falls and serves as a key wildlife destination near Shimoga.Shivamogga Zoo & Safari Guide

Lion & Tiger Safari (Tyavarekoppa)

The Lion and Tiger Safari (also known locally as Tyavarekoppa Safari) is a highlight where visitors ride in guided vehicles through areas with free-roaming big cats — lions, Bengal tigers and other animals like deer, sloth bears, leopards, and more. Founded in 1988, it’s one of Karnataka’s oldest safari parks, second only to Bannerghatta.Shivamogga Zoo & Safari Guide

⏰ Shivamogga Zoo & Safari Timings

Zoo Only:
📍 Generally: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM (Closed on Tuesday) — animals are most active early morning or late evening.

Safari (Lion & Tiger):
🕐 10:00 AM – 01:00 PM & 02:15 PM – 05:00 PM
❗ Closed on Tuesdays and some national holidays.

🎟️ Shivamogga Zoo & Safari Ticket Prices (Approx)

Zoo Entry Only:

  • Adult: ₹50
  • Child: ₹25
    (Foreigners higher)

Zoo + Safari Combo:

  • Adult: ₹150
  • Child: ₹75
    (Foreigners: ₹300/₹150)

Safari Vehicle & Jeep:

  • Deluxe/Bus Safari: ₹250–₹350/adult
  • Bolero Jeep (6-seater): ₹2000 per trip

Note: Prices vary by safari type. Booking on-site is typically first-come first-served; online system may not be available currently. There’s also camera/photography charges and parking fees.

📸 Shivamogga Zoo & Safari Photos

You’ll find great photo opportunities with big cats, herbivores, birds and lush landscapes throughout the sanctuary areas and walkways. Tip: Early morning light and late afternoon provide the best natural lighting for photos when animals are more active.

📍 Distance Info

From Shivamogga City Centre: ~10 km along the Shimoga–Sagar Road.

Nearby attractions include Jog Falls (~95 km), Mandagadde Bird Sanctuary (~35 km) and Sakrebyle Elephant Camp (~12 km) making it perfect for a nature excursion.

🕐 How Long to Tour Shivamogga Zoo & Safari

Expect to spend 2.5 to 3 hours or more if you include the safari rides and photo stops. The safari alone can run around 20–30 minutes per ride, but queues and timing windows add to total visit time.

🦁 Which is the Biggest Zoo in Karnataka?

The largest and most popular zoo in Karnataka is the Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens (Mysuru Zoo) in Mysore. It was established in 1892 and features extensive gardens, hundreds of animal species, and special conservation programs — making it bigger and more diverse than most other zoos in the state.

Quick SEO Summary

Shivamogga Zoo & Safari is a must-visit wildlife attraction near Shimoga, offering a unique mix of zoo enclosures and open safari experiences with lions, tigers and more. Whether you are planning a weekend trip or a family outing, the combined zoo + safari ticket offers excellent value and photo opportunities, while Mysuru Zoo remains Karnataka’s biggest zoo with a rich heritage and expansive animal collection.