Chennai has a lot to explore and be a part of; among them a visit to the Chennai zoo, also known as Arignar Anna Zoological Park, is a must-do activity in the city. The zoo in Chennai is located outside the city and offers a great retreat from the hustle bustle of the urban daily life. There is another name by which the locals refer to this place – Vandalur Zoo; so do not get confused if there is a mix-up of names! An old zoo built back in 1855, Chennai zoo happens to be the first public zoo in the country to be affiliated by the Central Zoo Authority in India. With an area that spreads across 602 hectares, Chennai zoo is home to 1500 species including many endangered ones. The zoo also acts as a rehabilitation centre for rescued animals who were found astray and left for dead.