Nandankanan Zoo – Explore Nature’s Wonderland

Description

Nandankanan Zoo, nestled amidst the lush green environment of Chandaka Forest near Bhubaneswar, is one of Odisha’s most cherished wildlife destinations. This scenic sanctuary offers an incredible blend of natural beauty and exotic wildlife, attracting thousands of visitors every year. If you’re planning a trip from Puri, Shree Kshetra Travels, the most trusted Travel Agency in Puri, provides seamless travel arrangements, car rentals, and cab services to make your journey comfortable and memorable.

What makes Nandankanan Zoo special?

Nandankanan Zoo, located near Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, rare animal species, and picturesque setting beside Kanjia Lake. It houses over 1,500 animals, including white tigers, gharials, and exotic birds, making it one of India’s most unique zoological parks.

Highlights:

• Only Indian zoo with Patas monkey and Eastern Rosella
• Home to white tigers and endangered gharials
• Set around scenic Kanjia Lake and Chandaka Forest
• Features a botanical garden, zoo, and sanctuary

About Nandankanan Zoo

Situated within the natural surroundings of the Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandankanan Zoo lies close to the beautiful Kanjia Lake. It extends across parts of the Krishnanagar and Jujhagarh protected forests, near the Baranga Railway Station on the Howrah–Chennai route. The serene environment of this zoological park reflects the true meaning of “Nandankanan,” a term that translates to *“The Garden of Heaven.”*

The zoo spreads across an expansive area filled with lush greenery, scenic landscapes, and diverse habitats that make it a perfect getaway for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

Nandankanan is home to a fascinating variety of animal species. The zoo features 101 enclosures with 202 sub-enclosures, accommodating mammals, birds, and reptiles in both open moated and caged areas.

Animal Collection Highlights

• 126 species including 40 mammals, 56 birds, and 24 reptiles
• Over 1,580 animals: 634 mammals, 812 birds, and 134 reptiles
• 88 indigenous and 32 exotic species add global diversity
• Rare inhabitants like Orangutans, Indian Pangolins, and Burmese Pythons

Nandankanan is also one of the few zoos in India that houses endangered species listed under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Schedule I).

Rare and Endangered Species

Nandankanan Zoo takes pride in being the only zoo in India to host the Patas Monkey, Eastern Rosella, and Open-billed Stork. Moreover, it’s one of only two zoos to have the Orang-Utan, Indian Pangolin, and Spotted Munia, making it a biodiversity hotspot.

Additionally, the zoo shelters exotic birds like Green-winged Macaws, Cinereous Vultures, and Nicobar Pigeons, which are rarely seen elsewhere in India.

Breeding Success Stories

White Tigers and More

Nandankanan Zoo has achieved remarkable success in breeding programs. The birth of white tigers from normal-colored parents brought the zoo worldwide fame. Other breeding milestones include:

• Gharials (since 1980)
• Indian Pangolin (1971)
• Sloth Bear (1978)
• Lion-tailed Macaque (1983)
• Saltwater Crocodile (1985)
• Chimpanzee (1999)
• Siamese Crocodile (2010)

This dedication to conservation and breeding has made Nandankanan a leading wildlife preservation center in India.

Experience Nandankanan with Shree Kshetra Travels

Traveling from Puri to Nandankanan Zoo is now effortless with Shree Kshetra Travels, your reliable Travel Agency in Puri. We offer:

• Comfortable car rentals with experienced drivers
• Affordable taxi and cab services from Puri to Bhubaneswar
• Personalized sightseeing plans to nearby attractions
• Hassle-free pick-up and drop from your hotel or residence

Our professional team ensures a safe and enjoyable journey, letting you focus on the beauty and wildlife that await at Nandankanan.

FAQ

How far is Nandankanan Zoo from Puri?

Nandankanan Zoo is around 85 km from Puri, and it takes approximately 2.5 hours by car. You can easily book a cab from Shree Kshetra Travels, the most dependable Travel Agency in Puri, for a smooth trip.

What are the main attractions of Nandankanan Zoo?

Key attractions include white tigers, gharials, a botanical garden, Kanjia Lake boating, and an extensive collection of exotic birds and reptiles.

Which is the best time to visit Nandankanan Zoo?

The ideal time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and animals are most active in the open enclosures.

Plan Your Trip Today

Whether you’re a wildlife lover, photographer, or nature explorer, Nandankanan Zoo offers an unforgettable experience filled with scenic beauty and rare species. The journey from Puri is both convenient and exciting when arranged through Shree Kshetra Travels, the trusted Travel Agency in Puri offering the best car rental and taxi services across Odisha.

So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the natural wonders of Nandankanan!

Book your car today and explore Bhubaneswar with ease!

Call us on 9938437982 or 9348341126 to plan your visit to Nandankanan Zoo with Shree Kshetra Travels, your trusted Travel Agency in Puri, Odisha.