Starting August 1, visitors to Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) in Bengaluru and Sri Chamarajendra Zoo in Mysuru will pay 20% more for entry, following the Karnataka government’s approval of a fee hike on Thursday. However, rates for jeep and bus safaris at BBP will remain unchanged.
Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK) had requested at least a 50% increase in entry fees to cope with surging expenses for animal feed, staff salaries, and other operational costs. Forest minister Eshwar Khandre, who chaired the 159th ZAK board meeting, declined the steep hike citing concerns over public affordability and zoo footfall, and approved a moderate 20% revision instead.
Officials explained that BBP alone needs around ₹18 crore annually for administrative costs and an additional ₹10 crore to feed animals and birds, taking total expenses close to ₹30 crore each year. Similarly, Mysuru Zoo requires ₹25–28 crore annually.
Unlike most zoos in India that rely on government grants, Karnataka’s zoos largely sustain themselves through ticket sales and limited adoption contributions. “The adoption scheme brings in only a few lakhs, so we depend mainly on gate collections,” an official said. Rising costs of meat and fodder have further strained budgets.
The forest minister also instructed authorities to enhance visitor facilities, including potable water, toilets, shaded rest areas, and recreational amenities to improve the overall experience.