Former Fresno Chaffee Zoo CEO Scott Barton speaks at a news conference in September 2020 for the groundbreaking of Kingdoms of Asia. File photo

An opening date has been set for Fresno Chaffee Zoo’s newest exhibit — a $38 million celebration of Southeast Asian culture and wildlife.

Ground was broken Sept. 24, 2020, on Kingdoms of Asia, and on June 3 it will open to the public for the first time. Before that, zoo members will get the opportunity for a sneak preview May 25-31.

Both members and non-members must reserve a timed ticket for entry to Kingdoms of Asia in addition to regular admissions. The tickets will be available on the Zoo’s website starting Thursday at no additional charge.

“This is an incredible addition to the experience here,” said Jon Forrest Dohlin, Fresno Chaffee Zoo director and CEO.

Themed after the 12th-century Angkor Wat temple in Cambodia, Kingdoms of Asia includes new exhibits for Malayan Tigers, Komodo dragons, sloth bears, Asian songbirds and more.

To ensure an authentic experience, the Zoo drew on cultural advisors from the local Southeast Asian community to help design the exhibit with its meticulous rock work.