Weather: 13 - 25°C
Tags: Zoo, Wildlife, Nature
Timings:

  • Summer (March to October): 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Winter (October to March): 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Closed every Tuesday

Time Required: 1 - 2 hrs
Entry Fee:

  • Indians: INR 30
  • Students: INR 15
  • Foreign Nationals: INR 300
  • Children below 5 years: Free

Nestled in the natural beauty of Jodhpur, Machia Biological Park is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers. Situated about 8.5 km from the heart of Jodhpur city, this expansive park is part of the vast Machia forest block and is located close to the serene Kaylana Lake. The park offers visitors an opportunity to explore diverse species of flora and fauna while also immersing themselves in a peaceful natural environment.

A Rich Biodiversity Experience

Machia Biological Park stands out as a sanctuary of biodiversity, showcasing a stunning variety of animals and plant life in a desert ecosystem. The park is home to a variety of species, including desert foxes, jungle cats, monitor lizards, gazelles, tortoises, rabbits, and more. In addition to these, royal Bengal tigers and Asiatic lions also call the park home. Currently, plans are underway to introduce more species such as jackals, hyenas, and sloth bears, which will enhance the diversity of wildlife.

The park consists of 20 enclosures designed to mimic the natural habitats of its residents. With well-maintained walkways, visitors can stroll through the park, observing wildlife in a peaceful and unhindered setting. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, motor vehicles are available for use, ensuring accessibility for all.

Activities and Attractions

Machia Biological Park is not just about animal sightings; it offers a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts and photographers:

  • Elephant Riding: For a small fee, visitors can enjoy a ride on an elephant, offering a unique perspective of the park’s landscape.
  • Bird Watching: With its diverse flora, the park is a haven for birdwatchers. There is a dedicated bird-watching point, perfect for spotting local and migratory birds.
  • Nature Interpretation Centre: This center provides an in-depth understanding of the park’s ecology and biodiversity. It’s an educational space for visitors to learn about the park’s conservation efforts.
  • Machia Fort: The Machia Fort located within the park provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape, especially during sunset. This historical fort offers a great photo opportunity and a peaceful retreat within the park.
  • Kaylana Lake Viewpoint: Located close to the park, Kaylana Lake is a tranquil spot, and the viewpoint within the park offers breathtaking views of the lake, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

The Habitat and Flora

The park is situated in a rocky, desert-like environment and is made up of Rhyolite rocks, which form the base of the region’s terrain. The area has low soil depth, and the natural vegetation is that of a dry scrub forest, typical of Rajasthan’s desert environment. The park is home to a range of desert-adapted trees such as Khejri, Babul, Karir, and Khor. These hardy trees can survive the region’s scant rainfall and harsh conditions, creating a unique and resilient ecosystem.

History of Machia Biological Park

Conceptualized in 1983, Machia Biological Park was designed to serve as a satellite zoo to the Jodhpur Zoo, originally established by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1935. Since 1956, the park has been managed by the Rajasthan Forest Department, and 41 hectares of the 604-hectare Machia Forest Block has been dedicated to the park’s conservation efforts.

Additional Costs

Visitors should be aware of additional charges for photography within the park:

  • Still Camera: INR 80
  • Video Camera: INR 200

These charges help maintain the park’s infrastructure and ensure a sustainable visitor experience.

How to Reach Machia Biological Park

Reaching Machia Biological Park is convenient, with several transport options available:

  • By Car/Taxi: The most comfortable way to reach the park is by taxi or private car. It is located approximately 8.5 km from the city center of Jodhpur. If you’re driving, you can take the Chopasni Road, which runs alongside Kaylana Lake, offering a scenic route to the park.

  • By Bus: The closest bus stop to the park is Aakhaliya Chouraha Bus Stop, located around 4.5 km from the park. From here, you can easily hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach your destination.

  • By Auto-Rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are widely available in Jodhpur and can take you directly to the park for an affordable price.

  • By Bicycle: For those who love cycling, the scenic route along Kaylana Lake offers a pleasant ride to the park, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the desert landscape.