Nandankanan Zoological Park Bhubaneswar — 437-hectare Garden of Heaven with white tigers, wildlife safaris, boating and nature trails in the Chandaka forest.
Nandankanan Zoological Park Travel Guide | Swosti India
Nandankanan Zoological Park Bhubaneswar is a premier 437-hectare zoo and botanical garden in Odisha, known for its natural forest setting and conservation efforts. The green surroundings give the park a peaceful atmosphere, while the name Nandankanan means "Garden of Heaven".
History of Nandankanan Zoological Park
In 1960, Forest officials planned to display rare plants and animals from Odisha at the World Agricultural Fair in Delhi. The Forest Department collected several species for the Odisha pavilion, including spotted deer, barking deer, blackbuck, a mouse deer, leopard cat, flying squirrel, birds, a peacock and a mongoose.
A divisional forest officer from Deogarh later brought a pangolin and two porcupines, while the divisional forest officer of Puri brought a pair of wild boars and a python. The animals were displayed at the Delhi fair before returning to Bhubaneswar.
Later, the State Finance Department raised concerns about the cost of establishing and maintaining a zoo in Odisha. When the animals returned to Bhubaneswar in May 1960, temporary structures were arranged at Khandagiri to house and feed them. Local members of the Jain community also helped care for the animals during this period.
Location of Nandankanan Zoological Park
Nandankanan Zoological Park Bhubaneswar is located in Barang village, Odisha, within the natural setting of the Chandaka forest. It lies between Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, around 20 km from the state capital.
Animals of Nandankanan Zoological Park
Nandankanan is home to about 1,600 animals representing roughly 166 species, including 67 mammal species, 81 bird species and 18 reptile species. Nandankanan Zoological Park Bhubaneswar is internationally recognized for its White Tigers, open enclosures and its pioneering captive breeding of Gharials.
Famous and Notable Animals
White Tigers and Royal Bengal Tigers
Nandankanan is internationally known for its White Tigers and Royal Bengal Tigers in open, naturalistic enclosures.
Primates
The chimpanzees, the Stump-tailed macaques, Bonnet macaques and the Black-tufted marmosets.
Carnivores
Asiatic lions, African lions, leopards, Indian wolves, Dholes, and Sloth bears.
Herbivores
Giraffes, Plains zebras, Indian elephants, Hippopotamuses, Sangai (Brow-antlered deer), Swamp deer, and Nilgai.
Exotic Species
Red-handed tamarin, Small Indian civet, and various macaques.
Recent Additions of Animals (2026)
Ring-tailed Lemurs, Dholes (Asiatic wild dogs), Sulphur-crested Cockatoos, Nilgai and Bonnet Macaques.
Reptiles in Nandankanan Zoological Park
This specialized reptile park houses 31 species, including:
- King Cobras
- Indian Rock Pythons
- Yellow Anacondas
- Mugger Crocodiles
- Gharials
Bird Species of Nandankanan Zoological Park
Nandankanan has a diverse collection of bird species, including:
- Mandarin ducks
- Black swans
- Various Pheasants
- Emu and Ostrich
- Various Lorikeets and Parakeets
Aquarium and Aviary of Nandankanan Zoological Park
The zoo also has:
Bird lovers can spot parrots, peacocks, hornbills and water birds across the aviaries and surrounding green spaces.
- A freshwater aquarium with colorful fish.
- Big aviaries with exotic, as well as native birds.
- Butterfly-rich green areas that add to the park's natural appeal.
Conservation and Research of Nandankanan Zoological Park
Nandankanan Zoological Park Bhubaneswar plays an important role in wildlife rescue, breeding endangered species, animal research and environmental education.
Best Time to Visit Nandankanan Zoological Park
The best time to visit Nandankanan Zoological Park Bhubaneswar is generally from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for exploring the park. The zoo is open from Tuesday to Sunday and remains closed on Mondays.
How to Reach Nandankanan Zoological Park
Nearest Railway Station
Barang Railway Station (East Coast Railway) is less than 1 km from the zoo boundary.
Nearest Airport
Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is roughly 20 km away and is the nearest airport to Nandankanan Zoological Park Bhubaneswar.
Activities for Visitors of Nandankanan Zoological Park
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities at Nandankanan Zoological Park Bhubaneswar, including:
- Wildlife photography
- Boating
- Safari tours
- Nature walks
- Educational tours for students
Nearby Attractions of Nandankanan Zoological Park
Kanjia Lake
Kanjia Lake is a scenic natural water body surrounding the zoo area. Boating facilities and views of the lake make it a relaxing spot for tourists and nature lovers.
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary lies south of the zoo and is known for ecotourism, jungle treks and opportunities to see elephants in their natural habitat.
State Botanical Garden
Located across the lake from the zoo, the State Botanical Garden features a large cactus house, a rose garden and Kiakani Lake.
