Guindy National Park

Guindy National Park is a protected area in Chennai, India, covering roughly 270 hectares and combining several habitats. Scrubland alternates with lakes and streams, while a large clearing marks the former polo ground.

The area first took shape in 1670 as a game reserve and passed into government hands in 1821. Forest protection status came in 1910, stopping any further clearing of the land.

The name comes from the surrounding neighborhood, an old administrative district with roots in colonial times. Visitors today walk trails through open grasslands that recall earlier use as riding and recreation grounds.

A ranger accompanies visitors into the core zones, while neighboring areas for children and reptiles have separate entrances. Early morning works well for wildlife watching before the heat builds up.

Antelopes and deer share the grounds here in the middle of a major city, which rarely happens in Indian metropolises. The animals move freely between water holes and clearings and can be observed at close range.