Visitors who wear an ao dai (Vietnamese traditional long gown) to the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens in District 1, downtown Ho Chi Minh City, this March will receive a 50 percent discount on entrance tickets, the zoo's management board announced on Friday.

As part of a special promotional program in March honoring the ao dai, all visitors – regardless of gender – who wear ao dai will receive a 50 percent discount on admission, a zoo representative told Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper.

In particular, visitors dressed in an ao dai on International Women’s Day (March 8) will receive free admission, the representative added.

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens has long been seen as the 'green lung' of downtown Ho Chi Minh City. It is not only a beloved recreational spot for locals but also a sanctuary for rare and endangered animals.

Currently, the zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from 135 species, including rare species such as the crested argus, douc langur, yellow-cheeked gibbon, Eld’s deer, Asian golden cat, clouded leopard, and Bengal tiger.

Moreover, it boasts over 2,500 trees and more than 900 plant species under conservation.

The zoo also houses a collection of rare birds, including the great hornbill, Indian peafowl, and various unique waterfowl species.

For generations, many Ho Chi Minh City residents have regarded the zoo as a cherished part of their childhood, where they grew up discovering nature.

Established in 1864, Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens boasts a 160-year history, making it one of the world's eight oldest zoos.

Originally founded to raise public awareness and serve as a research facility, it has since become a cultural symbol and a treasured part of Ho Chi Minh City's heritage.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!