It’s a fishy affair at Park Circus Maidan this Christmas as tanks full of fish of all shapes, sizes and colours welcome the young and young at heart into their marine world. Winter fun has been a tradition at Park Circus Maidan with entertainment ranging from fairs with rides and food stalls to circuses. But the latest attraction is a unique one — Kolkata’s very first ‘Underwater Tunnel Aquarium’.
In keeping with the festive season, a pair of Santa Clauses welcome visitors to the tunnel. Once inside the marine world, you can see fish tanks all around you and overhead. Stroll leisurely as you observe each fish. Spot the Black Tetra, also called the Widow and a gathering of small, luminous fishes showcasing a myriad of colours. Rows of individual tanks host a diverse array of fish, from baby sharks to goldfish. A beautiful fish with a large red head, popularly known as Flowerhorn, is the showstopper. The spectacle left children mesmerised when My Kolkata visited the place on a delightful Saturday afternoon.
Kolkata’s very first ‘Underwater Tunnel Aquarium’ at Park Circus Maidan
A family from Baranagar had come all the way to enjoy the marine world made popular by social media reels. “We saw several reels on the underwater aquarium and decided to pay a visit,” said a woman, who was there with her parents, sister and her kid, who loved the Widow.
Children enjoyed touching all the figurines at the tent, including this crocodile
Towards the end of the tunnel one gets to see a rather large fish with a crocodile-like mouth, known as Arapaima. This was another fish that intrigued the crowd. Exiting the tunnel leads you into a colourfully decorated and brilliantly lit tent. Inside, you can see lifelike figures of various marine creatures, including a gigantic octopus, a mermaid, an alligator and a snake. Children can explore this lively space, with realistic animal models, to their hearts’ content. A Christmas tree stands at the centre of this enclosure, offering the perfect spot for selfies and clicks.
These colourful fish, known as Glo Widow Tetra, were loved by children
One of the visitors, Rela Fenate, who works in the Kolkata’s Presbyterian Church in an administrative role, was there with his wife and daughter, who had come down from Mizoram to pay him a visit with her children. The kids had a gala time there and Rela couldn’t be happier. Rela said they learnt about the aquarium online and decided that it was a must-visit place with his grandchildren.
Watching the fish zip in and out of this sunken ship model was quite exciting
Brothers Atishaam and Ayaz Alam, who run the aquarium, prioritise its upkeep and cleanliness. “Every day, we use six tankers of freshwater and we keep changing and filtering the water to ensure the well-being of our aquatic residents and prevent contamination. Our team of four doctors conducts regular checkups, monitoring the eating patterns and overall health of the fish. Feeding is strictly handled by the doctors,” they shared.
The giant octopus was one of many figurines seen at the exit of the tunnel
The gate to the Park Circus Maidan that is nearest to the seven-point crossing is also closest to the aquarium entrance. The Underwater Tunnel Aquarium is open till February 2, 2pm to 10pm on weekdays and till 11pm on weekends. The crowd usually starts getting heavy post 6pm. With entry just at Rs 100 per person, the Underwater Tunnel Aquarium is an enjoyable and affordable experience.
