Rare fish species to see in Bangalore
Four fish worth finding
| Fish | Water | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Alligator gar | Freshwater | A long body and a wide, toothy snout like a crocodile's |
| Moray eel | Marine | Snake-like body, often hiding in rock gaps with its mouth opening and closing |
| Tarpon | Marine and brackish | Large silver fish with big, mirror-like scales |
| Sun catfish | Freshwater | A flat head and long whiskers, usually near the bottom |
The full species list is on the fishes page.
Why these are hard to see elsewhere
Most home and shop tanks in the city hold small ornamental fish. Large predators like gar and tarpon need big tanks and steady care, so you usually only see them in a public aquarium.
Best time to watch them
Come for the diver-led fish feeding at 6:30 PM every day. The fish get active, and big species come up close to the glass. Arrive an hour early to walk the underwater tunnel first.
More than rare fish
- What the venue calls India's longest underwater tunnel
- Jellyfish room with reflective walls
- Interactive zones and educational displays, good for school children
- Mermaid show on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, free with entry (confirm on the mermaid page)
Note: Mermaid show timings keep changing. Always call +91 96063 11881 or check with the staff at the ticket counter before you come for the mermaid show.
Tickets
| Ticket | Mon to Fri | Weekends and holidays |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (above 140 cm) | ₹499 | ₹599 |
| Kids (80 cm to 140 cm) | ₹449 | ₹549 |
Book on the tickets page. AQUA100 gives ₹100 off online.
For students and hobbyists
Schools and colleges can arrange visits through the group bookings page. Phone photos are fine for notes, but cameras and shoots need prior permission. Bags are not allowed and there is no bag storage, so carry only a phone and a small notebook in hand.
Read on: exotic fish in Bangalore and places to learn about marine life.
About Aquarium Paradise
Aquarium Paradise is an indoor aquarium at Palace Grounds, Jayamahal Main Road, opposite TV Tower, J.C. Nagar, Bengaluru 560006, inside the Fun World complex next to Snow City. It is open every day from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM, with ticket counters closing at 7:15 PM. Phone: +91 96063 11881.
FAQs
Where can I see an alligator gar in Bangalore?
At Aquarium Paradise, Palace Grounds, which lists alligator gar among its fish.
Does Aquarium Paradise have marine fish?
Yes. It keeps both freshwater and marine fish, including moray eel and tarpon.
When are the fish most active?
During the diver-led feeding at 6:30 PM every day.
Can students visit as a group?
Yes. Schools and colleges can enquire through the group bookings page.