A zoo of many firsts

Escape from the ordinary and immerse yourself in the extraordinary at Nandankanan, Bhubaneshwar, an iconic zoological park in a forest that is unlike traditional zoos. Animals roam freely here, in their natural environment, giving you a true sense of the wilderness.

Nandankanan, which means Garden of Heaven, lives up to its name for its rare denizens and ecological marvels. It is primarily famous for its iconic white tigers, which were born to parents of regular tigers in 1980, but it is also known for being home to the melanistic tiger, Indian pangolins, Indian ratel, open-billed storks and more.

While on the lookout, don't miss the stunning Kanjia Lake, a national treasure that is nestled within the park's embrace.

As a pioneer in wildlife conservation, this zoo celebrates many firsts—for instance, successfully breeding endangered gharials in captivity, being the only conservation breeding centre of Indian pangolins in the world, being the only zoo in India to have an open-top leopard enclosure, and more.

The zoo also offers specially tailored events for school children! From exhilarating competitions like sit and draw to delightful activities like naming tiger cubs, Nandankanan invites you to join its vibrant wildlife community.

Feathers in its cap

Nandankanan has many accolades and distinctions. One important one is being the first zoo in India to gain membership in the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums (WAZA). This prestigious accolade not only highlights this zoo’s dedication to international animal care and conservation standards but also underscores its unwavering commitment to safeguarding wildlife.

But that's not all; Nandankanan boasts another feather in its cap as the sole zoo in India to inspire an express train named after it—the Nandankanan Express, as recognised by the Indian Railways. This remarkable recognition speaks volumes about the zoo's profound impact on the cultural and natural heritage of the region.

Timings

Opening time - 07:30 AM

Closing time - 05:30 PM

A sanctuary for vulnerable species

It serves as a vital hub for captive breeding of endangered gharials, contributing immensely to their preservation and growth. Delve deeper into the park's heart, and you will also discover conservation breeding centres dedicated to nurturing and protecting vulnerable species like the Indian pangolin and long-billed vultures.

As you wander through its enchanting pathways, prepare to be mesmerised by its remarkable facilities. Marvel at the expansive pools, the largest in the region, providing gharials and hippopotamuses with the space they need to flourish. And don't miss the chance to witness the park's second-largest heronry, where over 9,000 open-billed storks found sanctuary in 2018. It's a testament to Nandankanan's unwavering dedication to avian conservation and a sight that will leave you spellbound.

So much more to explore nearby

As a perfect way to cherish your memories of Nandankanan, remember to visit the souvenir shop within the park. Here, you'll discover a delightful array of items, from t-shirts and keychains to mugs, all adorned with the park's logo and motifs. Beyond the zoo, dive into the region's spiritual heritage at the awe-inspiring Mukteswara Temple, a marvel of Kalinga architecture that beckons you to bask in its divine ambience. For a glimpse into the vibrant tribal culture of the region, don't miss the Museum of Tribal Arts & Artifacts. Here, you can immerse yourself in a treasure trove of local artefacts, from exquisite Pattachitra paintings to intricate stone sculptures. You can also indulge in the local culture by visiting the traditional saree shops, offering a selection of Sambalpuri, Bomkai, and Ikat sarees that capture the region's essence. It's an opportunity to learn about the local way of life.

Nandankanan is a fascinating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, exceptional wildlife, and cultural heritage. Come and explore this captivating destination that beckons with its wonders.