Bhubaneswar Zoo
Establishment and Scope: Officially named Nandankanan Zoological Park (Nandankanan means 'Garden of Heaven'), it was established in 1960 and opened to the public in 1979. It is spread over 400 hectares, encompassing a zoo, a botanical garden, and a wildlife sanctuary (Kanjia Lake). Conservation Role : Nandankanan is globally acclaimed for its successful conservation and captive breeding programs, notably for the endangered White Tiger and the Indian Pangolin. It is the first zoo in the world to breed the White Tiger and the first in India to join the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). Ecology and Environment: The park is set amidst the dense Chandaka forest, providing a natural habitat for its animals. The large Kanjia Lake forms a key part of the sanctuary, attracting migratory birds. It's a key center for wildlife research and conservation in Odisha.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
4 to 6 hoursPlace Type:
Wildlife, Nature, RecreationalEntry Fees:
Zoo Entry Adult: INR 50 per person.
Zoo Entry Child: INR 10 per person (for children between 3-12 years).
Foreigners: INR 100 per person.
Bus Safari (White Tiger/Lion): A se...Zoo Entry Adult: INR 50 per person.
Zoo Entry Child: INR 10 per person (for children between 3-12 years).
Foreigners: INR 100 per person.
Bus Safari (White Tiger/Lion): A separate fee, typically INR 60 per adult.
Boating: Separate charges apply, depending on the type and duration of the boat ride (e. g. , INR 50 to 150).
Toy Train Ride: Separate ticket, usually around INR 20 per person.Timing:
Regular Timings: Generally open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (winter) and 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (summer).
Closed Day: The zoo is Closed Every Monday and on major national holidays like Diwali.
Ideal Visit Time: The ...Regular Timings: Generally open from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM (winter) and 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM (summer).
Closed Day: The zoo is Closed Every Monday and on major national holidays like Diwali.
Ideal Visit Time: The best time to visit is early morning (7:30 AM to 10:00 AM) when the animals are most active and the weather is cool, and right after it opens to book Safari tickets.Special Events:
Wildlife Week: Celebrated in the first week of October, featuring awareness programs, drawing competitions, and educational activities focused on conservation.
Nandankanan Foundation Day: Celebrated in the month of December, marking the zoo'...Wildlife Week: Celebrated in the first week of October, featuring awareness programs, drawing competitions, and educational activities focused on conservation.
Nandankanan Foundation Day: Celebrated in the month of December, marking the zoo's establishment with special exhibits, announcements, and cultural programs.
Migratory Bird Season: During the winter months (November to February), the Kanjia Lake area attracts numerous species of migratory birds, turning it into a birdwatcher's event.Best Photo Spots:
White Tiger Safari Bus: The best vantage point is from the specially protected bus during the White Tiger Safari, offering close, thrilling shots.
Ropeway Ride: Capture panoramic shots of Kanjia Lake, the surrounding forest, and the botanica...White Tiger Safari Bus: The best vantage point is from the specially protected bus during the White Tiger Safari, offering close, thrilling shots.
Ropeway Ride: Capture panoramic shots of Kanjia Lake, the surrounding forest, and the botanical garden from the aerial Ropeway.
Lake Waterfront: The designated viewing and picnic spots along the banks of Kanjia Lake provide beautiful landscape photography opportunities, especially at sunset.
Themed Garden Sections: The unique designs and species in the Cactus House and Orchid House are excellent for macro and detailed photography.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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White Tiger Safari: Take the bus safari into the separate forest enclosure to see the White Tigers, Bengal Tigers, and Lions in a near-natural habitat.
Boating on Kanjia Lake: Enjoy a serene boating experience on the picturesque lake, which is part of the sanctuary, offering birdwatching opportunities.
Visit the Reptile Park: Spend time at the unique reptile house to see different species of snakes and crocodiles up close.
Explore the Botanical Garden: Walk through the specialized gardens, particularly the Cactus House and Orchid House.
Ride the Toy Train: A fun activity, especially for children, providing a quick tour of the zoo's perimeter and a different perspective.
Observe the Indian Pangolin:White Tiger Safari: Take the bus safari into the separate forest enclosure to see the White Tigers, Bengal Tigers, and Lions in a near-natural habitat.
Boating on Kanjia Lake: Enjoy a serene boating experience on the picturesque lake, which is part of the sanctuary, offering birdwatching opportunities.
Visit the Reptile Park: Spend time at the unique reptile house to see different species of snakes and crocodiles up close.
Explore the Botanical Garden: Walk through the specialized gardens, particularly the Cactus House and Orchid House.
Ride the Toy Train: A fun activity, especially for children, providing a quick tour of the zoo's perimeter and a different perspective.
Observe the Indian Pangolin: Try to spot the rare and endangered Indian Pangolin in its designated conservation center.
Picnic and Relaxation: Utilize the numerous sit-outs and rain shelters for a relaxed picnic amidst the lush greenery.
Information
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Why Famous:
The Birthplace of White Tigers: It is internationally famous as the site where the rare White Tigers were first born to normal-colored parents in captivity in 1980. This makes it a major center for their conservation.
Kanjia Lake and Sanctuary:...The Birthplace of White Tigers: It is internationally famous as the site where the rare White Tigers were first born to normal-colored parents in captivity in 1980. This makes it a major center for their conservation.
Kanjia Lake and Sanctuary: The location adjacent to the vast Chandaka-Dampara Elephant Sanctuary and the presence of Kanjia Lake offers a blend of zoo-based conservation and natural wildlife viewing, including migratory birds.
Global Recognition: It is the only zoo in India that is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), highlighting its adherence to high global standards of animal care and conservation. -
Architecture:
Naturalistic Enclosures: The architectural design emphasizes naturalistic, forest-like enclosures rather than traditional cages, giving the animals a more indigenous environment. This reflects a modern trend in zoo design for animal welfare.
Bo...Naturalistic Enclosures: The architectural design emphasizes naturalistic, forest-like enclosures rather than traditional cages, giving the animals a more indigenous environment. This reflects a modern trend in zoo design for animal welfare.
Botanical Garden Layout: The extensive botanical garden section features various landscaped zones, including a cactus house, an orchid house (one of the largest in Odisha), and thematic plant sections, designed for both educational and recreational purposes.
Visitor Infrastructure: The park is well-laid out with multiple designated areas like the Safari zone, the zoo, the lake, and the garden, connected by well-maintained walking paths, a toy train track, and facilities like a baby care house and rain shelters. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), approximately 20 KMs away. Hire a taxi or pre-paid cab.
By Train: Nearest is Barang Railway Station (less than 1 KM), though Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) at 18 KMs is the mai...By Air: Nearest is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), approximately 20 KMs away. Hire a taxi or pre-paid cab.
By Train: Nearest is Barang Railway Station (less than 1 KM), though Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS) at 18 KMs is the main junction. Use auto or taxi from BBS.
By Road: Located on the northern outskirts of Bhubaneswar, on the highway toward Cuttack. It is easily accessible via Nandankanan Road by private vehicle, tourist bus, or hired taxi.
By Local Transport: Shared auto-rickshaws and local buses run frequently from Master Canteen and Vani Vihar square to Nandankanan. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
October to March: Best Time to visit, offering the most comfortable weather for walking and ensuring animal activity. December and January are peak season.
Monsoon (July-September): Offers lush green scenery but can be humid with sudden rai...October to March: Best Time to visit, offering the most comfortable weather for walking and ensuring animal activity. December and January are peak season.
Monsoon (July-September): Offers lush green scenery but can be humid with sudden rain interruptions.
Early Mornings (Ideal Day Part): Visiting between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM is highly recommended to see the animals during feeding and play, before the crowds and heat rise. -
Near Tourist Places:
Chandaka-Dampara Elephant Sanctuary (Adjoining), Deras Dam (22 KMs), Maa Shikhar Chandi Temple (21 KMs), Ekamra Kanan Botanical Garden (17 KMs), Odisha State Museum (21 KMs), Udayagiri & Khandagiri Caves (25 KMs), Cuttack City (15 KMs), Pathani Samanta Planetarium (18 KMs), Ram Mandir (18 KMs), Lingaraj Temple (22 KMs).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Carry a hat and sunscreen, especially after 10 AM. Follow all safety instructions during the Safari and maintain a safe distance from animal enclosures.
Packing Essentials: Bring binoculars ...Health & Safety: Wear comfortable walking shoes. Carry a hat and sunscreen, especially after 10 AM. Follow all safety instructions during the Safari and maintain a safe distance from animal enclosures.
Packing Essentials: Bring binoculars for better birdwatching over Kanjia Lake. Pack light snacks and water, though facilities are available.
Accommodation Advice: Accommodation is available in the city (Bhubaneswar) or in guest houses near Barang for those wanting to stay close to the nature reserve.
Other Tips: Book Safari tickets immediately upon arrival as they can sell out. Avoid feeding animals as it is strictly prohibited and harmful to them.
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