Press Release | Supported by Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, a New Public Observation Tower Project Planned at Bannerughatta Biological Park, Bengaluru

Through a grant of INR 5 Crore, the project aims to enhance visitor experience and increase conservation awareness, and visitor engagement 

Bengaluru, March 24, 2026 — Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNPF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bannerughatta Biological Park (BBP), a unit of the Zoo Authority of Karnataka, Government of Karnataka, to support the development of a 25-meter-high Public Observation Tower at the Zoo premises.

With a committed grant of INR 5 Crore, this partnership aims to enhance nature-based learning, strengthen conservation awareness, and improve visitor experience at one of India’s most prominent wildlife and eco-tourism destinations.

Bannerughatta Biological Park attracts over 2.2 million visitors annually and plays a critical role in Ex-situ conservation, rescue, and public education. The proposed Observation Tower will serve as an iconic new addition, offering panoramic views of the forested valley of Bannerughatta National Park and the Bengaluru skyline, while enabling safe and regulated wildlife observation.

Designed to accommodate 50–70 visitors at a time, the structure will integrate sustainability features such as solar energy systems and rainwater harvesting, reinforcing BBP’s commitment to environmentally responsible infrastructure.

“Public institutions like Bannerughatta Biological Park are important spaces where people can connect with nature—not just as spectators, but as students and eventually as trustees of our amazing biodiversity. As our everyday connection with the natural world weakens, we need to rebuild it through shared experiences, access, and storytelling. I hope the observation tower will awaken curiosity and awe, because it is often this sense of wonder that leads to caring for the environment”, said Rohini Nilekani, Chairperson – Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies. 

The initiative will also include educational features, such as conservation-focused content and thoughtfully designed visitor experiences. Along with supporting conservation and learning, the project is expected to promote sustainable tourism and create opportunities for local livelihoods.

Commenting on the plan, Sri A V Surya Sen, IFS – Deputy Conservator of Forests and Executive Director, Bannerughatta Biological Park, said: “This partnership marks a significant step in strengthening our commitment to conservation, education, and sustainable tourism. The proposed Observation Tower will not only enhance visitor experience through immersive nature-based learning but also stand as a symbol of our dedication to environmentally responsible infrastructure. With this support from Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies, we are further empowered to inspire millions of visitors towards wildlife conservation while safeguarding our natural heritage.”

Illustrative Rendering of the Proposed Observation Tower (subject to change during design development and approvals)

About Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies

Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies (RNPF) is a grant-making organisation that creates and strengthens communities for their own betterment. RNPF supports ground-breaking work at the intersection of Samaaj, Sarkaar, and Bazaar, focusing on civic engagement, access to justice, gender equity, mental health, and climate & environment. Founded by philanthropist Rohini Nilekani, who currently serves as Chairperson, Rohini and her husband, Nandan Nilekani, are signatories to the Giving Pledge. To know more: www.rohininilekaniphilanthropies.org.

About Bannerughatta Biological Park

Bannerughatta Biological Park, Bengaluru (BBP), a unit of Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK), Government of Karnataka (GoK), is a globally accredited organization situated in Bengaluru, which is one among the few places in the world where wilderness is preserved close to a big city.

BBP has four different units, such as Zoo, Safari, Butterfly Park, and Rescue Center, created within an area of 731.88 Ha. In total, there are 2194 individual animals across 100 species.

The main objective of the zoo, as per the National Zoo Policy 1998, is to complement and strengthen the national efforts in conservation of the rich biodiversity of the country, particularly wild fauna, through Ex-situ conservation, education, research, conservation breeding, rescue, and rehabilitation. In BBBP, the physical, psychological, and biological needs of the animals have been maintained at high standards.

BBP has been a self-sustaining organization with the main source of income from visitor entry tickets to the park, with an average of 22 lakhs visitors annually.