The Thiruvananthapuram Zoo at
Thiruvananthapuram,
Kerala dates back to the mid-19th century. Founded by Maharaja Swati Thirunal of Travancore in 20 hectares, the zoo provides people from all over the country a chance to watch exotic animals. Conservation drives have earned this zoo the reputation of one of the most successful breeding centers for endangered species, especially, lions. Recently it gained fame of a different order as the key site of inspiration for the Booker Prize winning novel, The Life of Pi by Yann Martel. Latest modernization has enhanced its appeal with natural enclosures housing a wide array of animals. The precincts also abound in plant life, each clearly marked for the enthusiast. The
Natural History Museum and Sri Chitra Art Gallery within the premises, have rare artifacts of cultural, historical and artistic significance.
