Jijamata Udyaan

Jijamata Udyaan, also known as Victoria Gardens or Byculla Zoo, is Mumbai's oldest public garden and zoo, spanning around 50 to 60 acres in the Byculla area. Established in 1861 during British rule and originally named after Queen Victoria, it was later renamed in honor of Jijabai Bhonsle, the mother of the Maratha king Shivaji Maharaj.

The garden features Palladian-style architecture, including a notable triple-arched gateway, an equestrian statue of King Edward VII, and the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum. The zoo houses a diverse range of animals such as lions, crocodiles, elephants, and a popular penguin enclosure. Over the years, the park has become a vital green space in Mumbai, offering botanical beauty, historical monuments, and recreational opportunities for locals and tourists alike.

It also includes facilities such as drinking water pavilions, bandstands, and spaces for cultural events, making it a cherished part of the city's heritage and natural landscape. The park is open daily, except Wednesdays, and is a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts.