Byculla Zoo's Underwater World Opens Soon!

The Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Botanical Garden and Zoo in Mumbai, commonly known as Byculla Zoo, is undergoing a significant transformation with the upcoming inauguration of its aquarium. Expected to open between January and February 2027, this new attraction will offer visitors the unique experience of walking through acrylic tunnels, creating an illusion of being submerged underwater. The facility will feature various tank designs and house approximately 60 species of marine fish, with a focus on those found in Indian waters.

This development comes at a crucial time, as Mumbai's iconic Taraporewala Aquarium has been closed for redevelopment since the Covid-19 pandemic, making the Byculla aquarium the sole functioning aquarium in the city upon its launch. The project, costing over Rs 60 crore, also includes an expansion of the enclosure for Humboldt penguins, aiming to accommodate up to 40 of these popular birds. The penguin population at the zoo has already grown significantly since their introduction in 2016.

The Byculla Zoo, established in 1863, is a historical landmark and a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The introduction of the walk-through aquarium is anticipated to further boost visitor numbers, which already see substantial footfall on weekdays and weekends. Importantly, there are no plans for a separate entry fee for the aquarium.