Nandankanan Zoological Park: A Garden of Heaven for Wildlife
Explore diverse wildlife in their natural habitat at Nandankanan Zoological Park, a unique zoo and botanical garden near Bhubaneswar.
Nandankanan Zoological Park, meaning 'The Garden of Heaven' in the local language, is a sprawling 437-hectare zoo and botanical garden located near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Established in 1960 and opened to the public in 1979, it stands out as one of India's premier large zoos, nestled within the Chandaka forest. The zoo is home to over 1580 animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. Nandankanan is distinguished as the first zoo in India to join the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). It's also recognized for its successful captive breeding programs, including those for White Tigers and Gharials. The zoo was the first to breed gharials in captivity. Visitors can explore the zoo's diverse habitats, including the Kanjia Lake, a wetland of national importance. Besides the zoological park, Nandankanan includes a botanical garden established in 1963. The park offers safaris, boating, and a toy train ride, providing an immersive experience for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is closed on Mondays.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Visit during the cooler months (October to March) for a more pleasant experience.
- Allocate at least 4-5 hours to fully explore the zoo and botanical garden.
- Check the official website for the latest timings and ticket prices.
A brief summary to Nandankanan Zoological Park
- Nandankanan Zoological Park, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 754005, IN
- Visit website
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bhubaneswar Railway Station or Biju Patnaik International Airport, take a direct bus (Line 11) to Nandan Kanan High School. The bus ride takes approximately 31 minutes and costs ₹40. From the High School, it is a short walk to the park entrance.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in Bhubaneswar, a taxi or ride-share can be hired to reach Nandankanan Zoological Park. The ride is approximately 16 km and takes about 16 minutes. The cost is between ₹230-₹280.
