Located in Sector 4 in Rourkela. I have memories of the park from the late 1990s and early 2000s when it was in much better shape than it is today. Today, it seems like the town has given up on the park.
It is a zoo and a park. There used to be an aquarium but now it has been converted into an interpretation centre. The famous doll house is also know longer available. The toy train runs. There is boating in the very small lake. Open, green spaces are available for picnic but the grass needs mowing. Trash is everywhere despite availability of dustbins, so that speaks something about visitors and how they feel about public spaces.
A cafetaria is available for food. Vendors sell snacks outside the park as well. Toilets are available. I didn't see any drinking water stations. Parking is available on the other side of the road opposite to the park entrance. You have take the bridge to come to the park entrance.
Animals and birds inside the zoo are in a deplorable condition. Zoos need to go away. The lone leopard, the sloth bears (one turned mad, one depressed), crocodiles and gharials (wallowing in muddy, zero visibility water), monkeys (kept separate for some reason), a python, a peacock, a hawk, some parrots and some deer are the few denizens of this miserable zoo. The way the enclosures have been maintained raises doubts on how well-fed and well-cared for the animals and birds must be. Zoos are educational yes but now children have access to TV and YouTube and these animals and birds need not suffer dreary and lonely lives in cramped spaces that are a fraction of their natural territory. It's plain cruel and sad.
Large bats roam and hang free from the eucalyptus and many other large trees in the park. And we have dogs roaming free as well. Saw no cats. A kid's playground is also available apart from the open park where children can play as well.
Entry fee is 50/- rupees per adult. Here's the thing - the Indira Gandhi park is an iconic park of the town. 1990s kids have lots of great memories of the park. The location is also scenic with blue-green hills all around. If the town authorities put just a little bit of effort and planning, they could transform the park into something that would rival the best parks in Delhi or Kolkata. The land available is huge. There is so much potential. Green spaces are must for any town/city, especially industrial ones...
Read moreIndira Gandhi Park, a hidden gem located just 3 km away from the Rourkela bus stand. Spread across a sprawling 42 acres of land, this park offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park is a picturesque haven, adorned with lush grass meadows, vibrant gardens, a charming small zoo, an enchanting aquarium, a serene lake, and a captivating doll museum. As you stroll through the park, you will be greeted by a diverse range of floral species, meticulously curated lawns, and a mesmerizing musical fountain that adds to the park's allure. For wildlife enthusiasts, the zoo within the park is a must-visit. It is home to a variety of birds, graceful deer, majestic black bears, resplendent peacocks, and even fascinating crocodiles. The zoo also boasts a special attraction for children - a delightful toy train that takes them on an enchanting tour of the entire zoo, creating lasting memories for the little ones. One of the most striking features of the park is the life-size statue of the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, which stands as a poignant tribute to her legacy. This statue serves as a major highlight of the park, adding a touch of historical significance to the natural splendor that surrounds it. Whether you are seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature, an educational adventure for your children, or simply a place to unwind and rejuvenate, the Indira Gandhi Park offers something for everyone. It is a perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Rourkela's landscape. I encourage you to plan a visit to the Indira Gandhi Park at your earliest convenience and experience the magic it has to offer. I am confident that you will find it to be a delightful and...
Read moreThe best park in the city, with a beautiful musical fountain, a small zoo, boating facility and a lovely toy train for the tiny tots. The zoo has a few animals like bears, crocodile, birds, etc. Overall a nice place to visit in the steel city.Need a good maintenance. It is a place on the ring road. Hence, parking needs to be streamlined.Most of the equipments are non-functional. The Indira Gandhi Park is the largest park is Orissa and located about 2 km from the city center. The park is a major attraction for the tourists and spread over an area of 42 acres of land. The location is very good. The foot over bridge draws attention of everyone... but lack of maintanence is visible strongly everywhere. The toilet is hell. Lack of cleanliness. Good place for spending time with family and friends. Maintained grass lands are there. The park contains flower garden , doll museum, aquarium house, boating lake, musical fountain and small zoo . Bird cage contain 6-7 varieties of bird included 2 Peacock and Macaw. Monkeys, different varieties of deer , rabbits , black bear and crocodile. Children park is there in the centre of the park where merry-go-round, swingset, slide, jungle gym, chin-up bars, sandbox, spring rider, trapeze rings are ther for childrens below the age of 12 . Toilets are facilitated inside the park. In December January the flower garden is full of flowers and everyone can enjoy the beauty of the garden. There are 2 shops for snacks and chocolates. There is a mini train for the children which passes across the lake and bird cage of emu and ostrich. The fish aquarium contain about different varieties of colourful fishes. Now the doll Meusium is closed...
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