Background

Nandankanan Zoo Safari: A Wildlife Extravaganza

Explore diverse wildlife at Nandankanan Zoo Safari, a unique natural habitat zoo and a global leader in conservation, near Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

4.4

Nandankanan Zoo Safari, meaning 'The Garden of Heaven,' is a sprawling zoo and botanical garden near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Established in 1960, it's renowned for its white tiger breeding program and diverse wildlife in a natural forest setting.

A brief summary to Nandankanan Zoo Safari

  • Tuesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 7:30 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 7:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and see the animals during their most active hours.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Carry water and snacks, especially if you are traveling with children.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as much of the zoo is outdoors.
  • Be respectful of the animals and maintain a safe distance.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bhubaneswar, take a direct bus operated by Capital Region Urban Transport from Satya Nagar to Nandan Kanan High School. Buses depart every 15 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 31 minutes. A one-way ticket costs ₹40. From the High School bus stop, it is a short walk to the zoo entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Bhubaneswar. A taxi ride to Nandankanan Zoo Safari takes about 16 minutes and typically costs between ₹230 and ₹280. This is a convenient option for those seeking a direct and quicker route.

  • Car

    If driving from Bhubaneswar, the zoo is approximately 16.4 km away. The drive takes around 16 minutes. Parking is available at the zoo, with fees ranging from ₹20 for two-wheelers to ₹70 for buses for 6 hours. Be mindful of traffic conditions, especially during peak hours.

Unlock the Best of Nandankanan Zoo Safari

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Nandankanan Zoo Safari

Nandankanan Zoo Safari is a 437-hectare (1,080-acre) zoo and botanical garden established in 1960 and opened to the public in 1979. Located near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, it stands out as one of India's largest and most famous zoos, uniquely built within a natural, moist deciduous forest. This provides a semi-evergreen environment where animals roam freely, closely mimicking their natural habitats. Nandankanan is not just a zoo; it's a conservation success story. It holds the distinction of being the first zoo in the world to breed both Melanistic and White tigers. It's also the sole conservation breeding center for Indian Pangolins globally. The zoo is a recognized member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). It is also recognized by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) for its preservation efforts. The park features several large facilities, including a Lion Safari (20 hectares), a White Tiger Safari (12 hectares), a Bear Safari, and a Herbivore Safari. These safaris offer visitors a unique experience of observing animals in open jungle environments from the safety of a vehicle. Other attractions include a reptile park, a nocturnal animal house, a museum, and the Kanjia Lake, a wetland of national importance. Nandankanan has successfully bred numerous endangered species, including leopards, Asiatic lions, and Indian crocodiles. The zoo's efforts extend to conservation and education, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families.

Popular Experiences near Nandankanan Zoo Safari

Popular Hotels near Nandankanan Zoo Safari

Select Currency