Nandankanan Zoological Park
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It's nice The very name of “Nandankanan”, in mythology, delineates the ecstatic but imaginary beauty of the celestial garden. It also indicates the real beautiful spots par excellence on earth, where one can see the panoramic views of nature and appreciate the glamour that exists in the external morphology of plants and animals. The zoo is enriched with 210 enclosures with at Nandankanan. It has the significance of having both the cages and open moat enclosures. There are 116 cages and 94 open moated enclosures to house all the captive animals of Nandankanan. It has the glory of having 156 species of animals which includes 41 spp. mammals, 83 spp. birds, 26 spp. reptiles and 6 spp. of amphibians. Nandankanan has huge number of animal collections. There are 3004 no animals, including 1175 mammals, 1546 birds, 262 reptiles and 21 amphibans. In these 156 species, 103 are indigenous and 53 are exotic.There are 15 spp of mammals, 120 spp of birds, 15 spp of reptiles, 85 spp of butterflies which are freely move inside the sanctuary. Nandankanan is the only zoo in India with the credit of having Patas monkey (Erythrocebus patas), Eastern Rosella (Platycercus eximus) and Open-billed Stork (Anastomus oscitans). Besides, it has the glory among the 2 zoos in India having Orang-Utan (others in Kanpur Zoological Park, Uttar Pradesh), Indian Pangolin (others in Jhargram Zoo, West Bengal), Spotted Munia (Others in Sayajibaug Zoo, Gujurat) and Burmese Python (others in Culcatta Snake Park, West Bengal). It is among the three zoos of India having Green-winged Macaws and Cinereous Vulture. Nandankanan has created its unique place for successful captive breeding of endangered Gharials in 1980. Birth of white tiger from normal coloured tigers has given a special place to Nandankanan over the world as one of the major host zoo for the white tigers. The other significant breeding success of Nandankanan includes Indian pangolin (1971), Mouse deer (1972), Malayan Giant squirrel (1974), Sloth bear (1978), Mugger (1982), Himalayan Black bear (1982), Lion-tailed Macaque (1983), Brow-antlered deer (1984), Salt water crocodile (1985), Indian porcupine (1986), White necked stork (1986), Caiman crocodile (1990), Water monitor lizard (1996), Swamp deer (1998), Chimpanzee (1999), Grey heron (2000) and Siamese crocodile (2010), ratel 2012 and many free living animals including Open billed storks. It is the host zoo for white tigers. White tigers were born to normal coloured parents in 1980, a unique event in the world. First zoo in the country where endangered Gharials were born in captivity in 1980. A unique White tiger safari was established in the Zoological Park on 1st October 1991. It is the 1st White tiger safari in India. Wonderful site for wildlife conservation and education where one can experience integration of ex-situ and in-situ conservation of wild fauna and flora.
Souhardya Ray
10
The zoo has a large section dedicated to Indian and non-Indian birds, including: Emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) Ostrich (Struthio camelus) Spot-billed pelican (Pelecanus philippensis) Great white pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) Indian bittern (Ixobrychus sinensis) Cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis) Little egret (Egretta garzetta) Great egret (Ardea alba) Median egret (Ardea intermedia) Grey heron (Ardea cinerea) Black-crowned night heron (Nycticorax nycticorax) Black-headed ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) Eurasian spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia) Asian openbill stork (Anastomus oscitans) Woolly-necked stork (Ciconia episcopus) Lesser adjutant stork (Leptoptilos javanicus) Painted stork (Mycteria leucocephala) Sarus crane (Grus antigone) Mandarin duck (Aix galericulata) Black swan (Cygnus atratus) Indian grey hornbill (Ocyceros birostris) Red junglefowl (Gallus gallus) Golden pheasant (Chrysolophus pictus) Lady Amherst's pheasant (Chrysolophus amherstiae) Common pheasant (Phasianus colchicus) Silver pheasant (Lophura nycthemera) Reeve's pheasant (Syrmaticus reevesii) Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus) Brahminy kite (Haliastur indus) Shikra (Accipiter badius) Pariah kite (Milvus migrans) Indian vulture (Gyps indicus) White-backed vulture (Gyps africanus) Cinereous vulture (Aegypius monachus) Java sparrow (Lonchura oryzivora) Long-tailed finch (Poephila acuticauda) Star finch (Neochmia ruficauda) Zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) Society finch (Lonchura striata domestica) Scaly-breasted munia (Lonchura punctulata) Red munia (Amandava amandava) Black-headed munia (Lonchura atricapilla) Laughing dove (Spilopelia senegalensis) Ring-necked dove (Streptopelia capicola) Barbary dove (Streptopelia risoria) Emerald dove (Chalcophaps indica) Diamond dove (Geopelia cuneata) Spotted dove (Spilopelia chinensis) Asian koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus) Hill mynah (Gracula religiosa) Long-tailed broadbill (Psarisomus dalhousia Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) Fischer's lovebird (Agapornis fischer) Rosy-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis) Masked lovebird (Agapornis personatus) Violet turaco (Musophaga violacea) Livingstone's turaco (Tauraco livingstonii) Rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus) Common sand boa (Eryx johnii) Indian tent turtle (Pangshura tentoria) Indian softshell turtle (Nilssonia gangetica) Indian flapshell turtle (Lissemys punctata) Indian narrow-headed softshell turtle (Chitra indica) Starred tortoise (Geochelone elegans) Green iguana (Iguana iguana) Indian chameleon (Chamaeleo zeylanicus) Mugger crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus)
NARAYAN MEENA
00
Nandankanan Zoo is one of the most well-known zoological parks in India, and it's located in the capital city of Odisha, Bhubaneswar. Here's a comprehensive review: **1. Biodiversity:** Nandankanan Zoo is famous for its wide variety of wildlife. It's not just a zoo but also a sanctuary for many endangered and exotic species. The zoo boasts an impressive collection of animals, including white tigers, Asiatic lions, Himalayan black bears, saltwater crocodiles, and various species of primates. **2. Natural Habitat:** What sets Nandankanan Zoo apart is its emphasis on creating natural habitats for its inhabitants. The enclosures are spacious and designed to mimic the animals' natural environments. This makes it a pleasant and educational experience for visitors. **3. Conservation Efforts:** Nandankanan Zoo is actively involved in conservation efforts, particularly for the endangered species. It has been successful in breeding several species in captivity, including the white tiger and gharial crocodile. The zoo's efforts in wildlife preservation are commendable. **4. Safari Experience:** The zoo offers a unique experience with its White Tiger and Lion Safaris. Visitors can take a guided tour through large open enclosures to see these majestic creatures up close. It's a thrilling experience and a highlight of the zoo. **5. Aviary:** The zoo has a well-maintained aviary with a diverse collection of birds, including rare and colorful species. It's a bird lover's paradise, offering a chance to see various species in their near-natural surroundings. **6. Botanical Garden:** In addition to its animal exhibits, Nandankanan Zoo also features a beautiful botanical garden with a vast array of plants and trees. It's a tranquil place to relax and enjoy the greenery. **7. Educational Value:** The zoo is an excellent place for learning about wildlife and conservation. It has informative signboards and knowledgeable staff who are eager to share insights about the animals and their habitats. **8. Accessibility:** Nandankanan Zoo is easily accessible from Bhubaneswar, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The infrastructure and facilities for visitors are well-maintained. **9. Visitor Amenities:** The zoo provides various amenities, including refreshment stalls, restrooms, and souvenir shops. It ensures a comfortable visit for families and individuals. **10. Sustainability:** The zoo is committed to sustainability and has taken steps to reduce its carbon footprint. It's also involved in various research and breeding programs to ensure the survival of endangered species. **11. Improvement: Still there is a lot of development needed like to the roping facility along with the botanical garden . The environment also need to be improved much more , so that please make an eye on the development. In conclusion, Nandankanan Zoo is a wonderful destination for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in conservation efforts. It combines entertainment with education and provides an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature. The zoo's commitment to wildlife conservation and its efforts to create natural habitats for animals make it a must-visit attraction in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Vicky tricky
20
Navigating the zoo. Outside the zoo you will encounter “guides” offering their services. The guides will quote a rate for the entrance ticket, buggy cart and safari - as well as their “guide services”. If you plan on taking a guide, pay for this yourself at the first large entrance hall - the guide counters are the first set of counters on the left. The guides will help you buy your tickets and take you to the various queues to board the buggy carts and safari bus. Do note that on a busy day at the zoo (like holidays or weekends) you would need to spend a significant amount of time standing in the buggy cart and safari queues. The guides don’t really help you fast track through any of the queues. At the first large entrance hall you can buy your entrance tickets from the ticket counters. Also buy tickets for the safari if you plan to do it. I understand the safari tickets are available here. Once you have your tickets walk to the entrance gate where the ticket is scanned and you enter. Once you enter walk straight and after the circle in the middle (with the zoo name) you will see the queue to take the buggy cart. Note: if you don’t opt for the buggy cart you can walk the route. The ticket counter is at the end of the line so make sure you buy your ticket first before entering the queue. (Note: The buggy cart is a hop on hop off service. You alight at each stop visit the enclosures and the hop on the next cart that comes to the next stop.) The buggy takes you down a straight main road to the first stop that covers reptiles. You alight at the first stop and visit the reptiles enclosure. Adjacent to this enclosure is the toy train ride; good for kids. After the reptiles visit head back to the main road, turn right and stand in the queue to hop on to the buggy again. From here the buggy takes you to the safari entrance gate. At the safari entrance gate walk straight and take the first right walkway. It leads to the queue line to board the safari bus. The ticket collector will take the safari ticket and write your seat number in the bus at the back of the ticket. It’s best to get a seat number at the front of the bus, beside the drive or in the first row of seats. The safari bus takes you through several security gates leading to open enclosures to see a pair of lions, s few small bears and several deer. It’s a bumpy ride on a dirt track. The bus stops near the animals for a minute or two. The bus drops you back to where you boarded it for the safari. From there take the buggy to the next stop of enclosures that covers tigers, giraffes, emus, and other animals. You can use the buggy’s to go from one stop to the next or walk the distance. Finally the buggy cart drops you back to the entrance.
Anil Ladislaus D'Souza
00
Nandankanan Zoological Park in Bhubaneswar, Odisha is a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Let me share more details about this remarkable place: Diverse Animal Species: Nandankanan houses over 1600 animals representing 166 species. From the regal tigers and lions to gentle elephants and exotic creatures, visitors can observe these magnificent animals up close. The zoo provides a unique opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation and appreciate the beauty of nature. Botanical Garden: Alongside the zoo, Nandankanan features a botanical garden that showcases Odisha’s rich flora and fauna. Stroll through lush greenery, admire colorful blooms, and immerse yourself in the diverse plant life of the region. Exciting Safaris: Lion and White Tiger Safari: Climb aboard a safari vehicle and witness these majestic big cats in their natural habitat. Bear Safari: Get a glimpse of playful bears as they go about their daily activities. Herbivore Safari: Explore the world of herbivores, including deer, antelopes, and other grazing animals. Boating on Kanjia Lake: Enjoy a serene boat ride on the 134-acre Kanjia Lake within the park. Choose from paddle boats (2-seater or 4-seater) or a family boat (6-seater) and soak in the tranquil surroundings. Toy Train Rides: Kids (and adults!) can hop aboard the toy train for a delightful ride around the park. It’s a fun way to explore different sections and spot animals along the way. Photography Opportunities: Capture memories with your camera! There are specific charges for using handy-cams, high-end video cameras, and movie cameras. Don’t miss the chance to document your visit and share it with others. Convenient Parking: If you’re arriving by car, Nandankanan offers multi-level parking facilities for bicycles, motorcycles, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers. There’s even a cloakroom for luggage storage. Timings: April to September: 07:30 hrs. to 17:30 hrs. (Closed on Mondays) October to March: 08:00 hrs. to 17:00 hrs. (Closed on Mondays) Entry Fees: Adults (Above 12 years): ₹50 Children (3 to 12 years): ₹10 Foreign Nationals: ₹100 Contact Information: Address: Nandankanan Rd, Near Police Station, Barang, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 754005
Anubhab Mohanty
10
Nandankanan Zoological Park is a prominent zoo and botanical garden located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Established in 1960, it spans over 400 hectares and is known for its unique setting amidst a natural forest, making it a blend of a zoo and a wildlife sanctuary. Here are some key highlights: 1. Unique Features: Nandankanan is the first zoo in India to become a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). It is also the first zoo to breed endangered species such as the white tiger and the melanistic (black) tiger in captivity. 2. Fauna: The zoo houses over 160 species of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Some notable animals include tigers, lions, elephants, leopards, gharials, and a wide variety of exotic birds. 3. White Tiger Breeding: Nandankanan gained international recognition for successfully breeding white tigers. The first white tiger cubs were born here in 1980, a major conservation milestone. 4. Safari Tours: The park offers various safari experiences, including a lion safari, tiger safari, herbivore safari, and bear safari, allowing visitors to observe animals in their natural habitat-like settings. 5. Botanical Garden: In addition to the zoo, Nandankanan has a large botanical garden that showcases various plant species and is a tranquil place for visitors. 6. Conservation Efforts: Nandankanan plays a significant role in the conservation of endangered species, participating in breeding programs for species like the Indian pangolin, crocodiles, and more. 7. Kanjia Lake: The zoo is located beside Kanjia Lake, a picturesque natural lake that enhances the biodiversity of the region and supports aquatic life and migratory birds. 8. Visitor Facilities: The zoo provides a wide range of visitor amenities, including battery-operated vehicles, an aquarium, a reptile park, and food stalls. 9. Research and Education: Nandankanan is involved in research on animal behavior, captive breeding, and conservation, and it also promotes wildlife education and awareness programs. It is one of India's best zoos, offering both recreational and educational value, with a strong focus on wildlife conservation.
ABHIJEET PARIDA
00
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Basic Info
Address
Nandankanan Zoological Park, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 754005, India
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Website
nandankanan.org
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Reviews
Overview
4.4
(28.5K reviews)
Ratings & Description
outdoor
family friendly
Description
Nandankanan Zoological Park is a 437-hectare zoo and botanical garden in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Established in 1960, it was opened to the public in 1979 and became the first zoo in India to join World Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 2009.
attractions: Nandankanan Zoo Aquarium, Kanjia Lake, restaurants: Juhar- The Kalinga Kitchen | Traditional odia food, Hotel Khusi

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