Surat, May 27 – Amid the scorching summer and intermittent rainfall, the Nature Park operated by the Surat Municipal Corporation has emerged as a popular destination for tourists, blending recreation with environmental education. Located in the city’s Sarthana area, the park—also known as the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Zoological Garden—has attracted a significant influx of visitors during the school summer holidays.
According to municipal officials, between May 5 and May 25, a total of 77,853 tourists visited the Nature Park, resulting in revenue of ₹21.26 lakh for the corporation. This strong turnout highlights the park’s growing appeal not only among Surat residents but also among visitors from across South Gujarat.
The park houses 128 animals from 24 different species, 294 birds representing 27 species, and 61 reptiles across five species. Designed to entertain as well as educate, the facility serves as a learning ground for students, many of whom visit the park on school trips from Surat to Vapi. Its mission is to foster awareness about wildlife and environmental conservation.
Despite the intense heat and unpredictable weather conditions in May, families have continued to visit in large numbers, making it clear that the Nature Park remains a top choice for leisure outings in the city.
In contrast, another major attraction in Surat—the aquarium at Pal—has remained closed since March 28 due to ongoing repair work. The delay in its reopening, owing to slow progress in maintenance, has left many visitors disappointed with no clear timeline yet announced for its resumption.
As per agency report, the popularity of the Nature Park underscores its significance as a model of environmental tourism in the region. Not only has it provided a meaningful recreational outlet for children and nature enthusiasts, but it has also proven to be a valuable source of revenue for the city administration. Hopes now rest on the early reopening of the Pal Aquarium to further enhance Surat’s appeal as a vibrant tourist destination.
