Marble Palace Zoo, Private zoo at Marble Palace in Kolkata, India.
Marble Palace Zoo is a private animal collection within a historic aristocratic residence in Kolkata that houses a range of bird species and exotic animals. The grounds contain peacocks, toucans, storks, cranes, and other creatures spread throughout the gardens of the estate.
The zoo was founded in 1854 by Raja Rajendra Mullick as the first zoological garden to open in India during the British colonial period. This early establishment made it a pioneering institution for animal collections across the subcontinent.
The zoo reflects how Indian nobility maintained private animal collections as a mark of status and refinement. The birds and creatures are woven into the everyday life of the aristocratic household that still occupies the palace.
Access to the zoo requires advance written permission from the West Bengal Tourism Office before your visit. Plan ahead and make arrangements early, as entry is controlled and visitors must coordinate with the site administrators.
The site preserves its original Victorian-era design and continues to function as part of an inhabited aristocratic home in North Kolkata. Visitors can observe how the animals and gardens blend seamlessly into the active daily life of the family residence.
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