Nandankanan Zoological Park Guide: Timings, Tickets & Safari
Plan your trip to Nandankanan Zoological Park with 2026 timings, entry ticket prices, safari charges, Kanjia Lake boating, and practical transit tips.
Nandankanan Zoological Park, situated 15 km north of Bhubaneswar railway station near Barang, ranks among India’s foremost open-air zoological reserves. Spanning 437 hectares of natural woodland and wetlands, the sanctuary provides expansive habitats for over 150 wildlife species.
While travelers frequently balance urban fun at splash centers and water parks in Odisha, Nandankanan offers an unmatched wilderness day out. It stands as the largest government biodiversity preserve in the state capital.
Key Takeaways
- Total Sanctuary Extent: 437 hectares integrating the biological park, Botanical Garden, and 66-hectare Kanjia Lake wetland.
- Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹20 for children between 3 and 12 years, and ₹100 for foreign tourists.
- Operational Timings: 07:30 AM to 05:30 PM (April to September) and 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM (October to March). Closed every Monday.
- Safari Costs: ₹100 for air-conditioned safari bus and ₹65 for non-AC safari bus covering royal Bengal tigers and Asiatic lions.
- Global Conservation Accolades: First zoo worldwide to breed Indian pangolins in captivity and home to historic captive-born white tiger litters.
Nandankanan Zoological Park: Quick Facts, Biodiversity & Overview
Nandankanan translates literally from Sanskrit as the Garden of Heaven. Established on December 29, 1960, the reserve was created to protect native wildlife while delivering environmental education.
The complex is unique because it integrates an open zoological garden, a 75-hectare botanical reserve, and Kanjia Lake. It is also an accredited member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
| Sanctuary Parameter | Official Operational Detail |
|---|---|
| Geographic Location | Barang, Bhubaneswar, Khordha District, Odisha (PIN 754005) |
| Total Campus Area | 437 hectares (1,080 acres) |
| Species Inhabiting | 156 species representing over 3,000 birds, reptiles, and mammals |
| Weekly Holiday | Every Monday (mandatory closure for upkeep and animal healthcare) |
| Standard Entry Tariff | ₹50 per adult; ₹20 per child (3 to 12 years); free under 3 years |
| Helpline Contact | +91-674-2466075 |
| Administrative Website | nandankanan.org |
| Nearest Railway Hub | Bhubaneswar Railway Station (15 km south) |
| Nearest Airport | Biju Patnaik International Airport (18 km southwest) |
| Core Highlights | White tiger safari, lion safari, Kanjia Lake boating, toy train |
Exploring the Biodiversity Corridor
The park’s sprawling woodland preserves natural moist deciduous flora. Towering Sal, teak, and bamboo groves surround moated animal enclosures designed to simulate wild environments.
Visitors can observe free-ranging native fauna alongside captive conservation species. Wild peacocks, langurs, monitor lizards, and migratory wetland birds flourish throughout the sanctuary grounds.
Travelers looking for top things to do in Bhubaneswar with kids often rank this park as their first choice. It combines exciting safari loops with peaceful lakeside garden pathways. The sanctuary is also an ideal venue for educational school excursion trips in Odisha, teaching students about biodiversity and environmental protection.
Those exploring the broader capital region can pair this excursion with other celebrated best tourist places in Bhubaneswar. The northern location allows convenient connectivity between both Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
Entry Ticket Prices, Safari Charges and Online Booking
Reviewing the official Nandankanan ticket price before your visit ensures a smooth entry at the turnstiles. The reserve maintains regulated tariffs to provide affordable eco-education for students and traveling families.
When budgeting for your day trip, calculating the complete Nandankanan safari price helps you choose between air-conditioned coaches and open-window vehicles. Separate nominal fees apply for open-vehicle safaris, toy trains, and pedal boating on Kanjia Lake. Visitors can purchase tickets at manual counters or through the official digital portal.
| Facility or Activity | Tariff (INR) | Operational Age Group and Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult General Entry | ₹50 | Age 12 years and above |
| Child General Entry | ₹20 | Age 3 to 12 years (Infants under 3 enter free) |
| Foreign Tourist Entry | ₹100 | International passport holders |
| Tiger & Lion Safari (AC) | ₹100 | Enclosed air-conditioned bus tour through wilderness enclosures |
| Tiger & Lion Safari (Non-AC) | ₹65 | Standard mesh-protected bus safari loop |
| Bear Safari Expedition | ₹15 | Sloth bear naturalistic territory loop |
| Herbivore Safari Corridor | ₹15 | Spotted deer, sambar, and blackbuck open range |
| Battery Operated Vehicle (BOV) | ₹80 | Guided eco-shuttle across major walking loops |
| Toy Train Ride Circuit | ₹50 | Scenic perimeter train (₹30 for children under 12) |
| Pedal Boating (Kanjia Lake) | ₹50 | 2-seater boat for 30 minutes (₹100 for 4-seater; ₹150 for 6-seater) |
How to Book Nandankanan Tickets Online
Visitors can purchase admission passes and combo safari tokens through the official Nandankanan Tickets Portal. Booking online eliminates waiting in long gate queues during weekends and winter holidays.
The portal accepts UPI payments, credit cards, and net banking. Upon successful payment, an electronic entry pass with a scannable QR code is generated instantly.
The park authority has also introduced automated WhatsApp ticket booking. Guests can message the official help number to secure admission and safari passes directly from their smartphones.
Online tickets remain valid exclusively for the selected visit date. Visitors should ensure their mobile devices carry sufficient battery charge to display QR codes at entry turnstiles.
Operating Timings, Seasonal Schedules and Best Visiting Hours
The biological park operates on seasonal timetables adjusted for coastal weather and animal welfare. Summer schedules open earlier to accommodate visitors before midday heat peaks.
The park observes a strict weekly holiday every Monday. Gates open promptly each morning from Tuesday through Sunday throughout the entire year.
| Season | Entry Gate Opens | Ticket Counter Closes | Park Exit Time | Mandatory Closed Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (April to September) | 07:30 AM | 04:30 PM | 05:30 PM | Every Monday |
| Winter (October to March) | 08:00 AM | 04:00 PM | 05:00 PM | Every Monday |
Best Time of Day to Arrive
Arriving right at morning opening time delivers the most rewarding wildlife encounters. Big cats and primates remain active during morning feeding hours between 08:00 AM and 10:30 AM.
Early morning arrivals also guarantee access to early safari bus departures. Queue times at the safari boarding pavilion increase significantly after 11:30 AM during tourist season.
During winter afternoons from November to February, the gentle sun makes walking pleasant. However, arriving early leaves sufficient time to explore both the zoo and the botanical gardens across the lake.
Official hours and holiday schedules can be verified on the Nandankanan Visiting Hours Portal prior to travel.
Wildlife Safari Expeditions: White Tiger, Lion, Bear and Herbivore Corridors
The enclosed safari zones comprise the signature attraction of Nandankanan. Visitors ride inside reinforced steel-meshed vehicles that drive directly into massive naturalistic forest enclosures.
This setup flips the traditional zoo dynamic completely. Animals roam freely across expansive wooded territory while human visitors observe safely from protected safari coaches.
The Combined White Tiger and Asiatic Lion Safari
Covering 20 hectares of undulating Sal forest, the predator safari offers thrilling close-up views of apex carnivores. Specially secured double-gated airlocks prevent animals from approaching service perimeters.
Visitors frequently spot royal Bengal tigers, rare white tigers, and majestic Asiatic lions. The big cats rest beneath natural tree canopies or drink along freshwater channels.
Travelers can choose between air-conditioned coaches and standard non-AC safari buses. AC buses cost ₹100 per passenger, while non-AC coaches cost ₹65 for the 30-minute expedition.
Sloth Bear and Herbivore Safari Corridors
The dedicated Sloth Bear Safari encompasses 5 hectares of rocky woodland. Visitors observe sloth bears foraging across authentic earthen termite mounds and climbing timber resting frames.
Adjacent lies the 21-hectare Herbivore Safari corridor. Large herds of spotted deer, sambar, barking deer, and blackbuck graze peacefully across open savanna grasslands.
Safari tickets are available as an economical combo at the central safari ticket complex. Experienced drivers pause at scenic viewpoints to let passengers capture sharp wildlife photographs.
Conservation Breeding Milestones: White Tigers, Pangolins and Gharials
Beyond public recreation, Nandankanan functions as an internationally acclaimed ex-situ conservation research institute. Its scientific breeding initiatives have revived endangered Indian species facing critical habitat loss.
The park maintains active partnerships with wildlife biologists and state forest authorities. These collaborative programs focus on genetic health and potential reintroduction into protected reserves.
World Capital of Captive White Tigers
Nandankanan achieved global scientific prominence in 1980 through an extraordinary genetic milestone. Two normal-colored royal Bengal tigers, Deepak and Ganga, produced three white tiger cubs carrying recessive genes.
Since that historic birth, Nandankanan has nurtured the largest captive gene pool of white tigers in Asia. The park has shared healthy breeding pairs with accredited zoological centers worldwide.
Today, visitors can observe these magnificent pale-coated tigers in dedicated, lushly planted moated enclosures. Informational plaques detail their coat color genetics and historical lineages.
The Indian Pangolin and Gharial Conservation Centers
The sanctuary houses a specialized conservation breeding facility for the critically endangered Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata). Supported by national research bodies, Nandankanan is the first zoo globally to breed pangolins in captivity successfully.
The freshwater gharial crocodile (Gavialis gangeticus) recovery project began here in the 1970s. Biologists successfully hatch gharial eggs before releasing strong juveniles into the Mahanadi River riverbed.
Visitors can also examine rare reptile specimens inside the dedicated Reptile Park. Glass-fronted terrariums house the king cobra, Indian rock pythons, and a massive yellow anaconda.
State conservation updates and biological reserves are detailed on the Odisha Tourism Portal.
Kanjia Lake Wetland, Boating and State Botanical Garden
Kanjia Lake serves as the ecological centerpiece of the Nandankanan sanctuary complex. Spanning 66 hectares, this freshwater waterbody holds formal recognition as a Wetland of National Importance.
The lake provides essential feeding grounds for diverse fish species and amphibians. It also acts as a vital stopover on the Central Asian Flyway for winter bird migration.
Bird Watching and Lake Boating
Between November and February, thousands of migratory waterfowl settle across Kanjia Lake. Birdwatchers regularly spot northern pintails, purple swamphens, openbill storks, and glossy ibises feeding among floating lotus beds.
Visitors can explore the open waters by renting pedal boats from the lake ghats. Boating operations run daily under strict life jacket safety regulations.
Tariffs are exceptionally reasonable at ₹50 for a 2-seater boat and ₹100 for a 4-seater boat for 30 minutes. Large family groups can book 6-seater pedal vessels for ₹150 per voyage.
Near Kanjia Lake, the open air aviary hosts a diverse birds inventory including waterbirds, storks, and regional pheasants. Lakeside viewpoints also provide prime opportunities for wildlife photography in Bhubaneswar, allowing visitors to photograph painted storks and purple swamphens.
The 75-Hectare State Botanical Garden
Situated directly across Kanjia Lake lies the peaceful State Botanical Garden. This green sanctuary offers a quiet contrast to the busy zoo walkways.
The garden features an orchidarium with native regional varieties, a landscaped glasshouse, and a rosarium. The butterfly park hosts over 80 species fluttering among nectar-bearing plants.
When evaluating Nandankanan Zoo vs Deras Dam ecotourism, Nandankanan offers rich captive animal viewing, while Deras provides quiet forested reservoirs. Travelers can easily venture to the tranquil waters of Deras Dam inside Chandaka Forest as a scenic twin destination.
Visitor Amenities, Internal Transit and Campus Navigation
Walking across 437 hectares requires considerable energy, especially for traveling families and elders. Nandankanan provides modern transit options and well-maintained public amenities to ensure a pleasant day.
Paved, shaded pathways connect all major enclosure sectors with comprehensive map signage. Benches and resting gazebos are spaced conveniently throughout the park circuits.
Battery-Operated Vehicles and Scenic Toy Train
Electric Battery-Operated Vehicles (BOV) provide silent, zero-emission transit across major animal exhibits. Tickets cost ₹80 per passenger and allow hop-on hop-off access at designated stations.
The nostalgic toy train operates on an elevated narrow-gauge track along the lake perimeter. Tickets cost ₹50 for adults and ₹30 for children under 12 years.
Both transit options fill up quickly during peak holiday afternoons. Visitors should book BOV and train slots early upon entering the complex.
Food Courts, Environmental Rules and Accessibility
Single-use plastics are strictly regulated inside the sanctuary to safeguard animal health. Visitors carrying packaged water bottles must pay a refundable security deposit of ₹10 per bottle at the entrance gate.
Staff attach a barcode sticker to each approved bottle. Visitors reclaim their deposit at the exit counter upon showing the empty container with intact sticker.
Outside cooked food packets are prohibited inside animal viewing zones. Visitors can dine at multi-cuisine cafeterias or use the scenic picnic lawns near the botanical garden gate.
Wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms serve travelers with reduced mobility. Wheelchairs are available for loan near the main entry security pavilion for a nominal deposit.
History enthusiasts finishing their zoo tour can also visit the ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves. The rock-cut caves are located only 12 km southwest of the park.
How to Reach Nandankanan: Road, Rail and Public Transit
Nandankanan is strategically positioned along the main arterial corridor connecting Bhubaneswar with Cuttack. This prime location guarantees effortless connectivity by bus, auto-rickshaw, or private cab.
The highway route follows the well-paved Barang thoroughfare. Road signage is clearly marked in English, Hindi, and Odia at all major intersections.
Reaching Nandankanan by Mo Bus Public Transit
The capital region’s Mo Bus network provides economical, air-conditioned bus connectivity directly to the zoo gate. Route 10 runs frequent departures between Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Master Canteen, and Nandankanan.
Route 16 connects Master Canteen to Nandankanan through the Chandrasekharpur IT corridor. One-way fares cost under ₹30, making it an affordable transit option for students and solo backpackers.
Buses operate from 06:30 AM to 08:30 PM with departures every 15 to 20 minutes. Modern electronic display screens and GPS tracking ensure dependable travel planning.
Driving Routes and Airport Distances
From Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), the drive spans 18 km and takes approximately 40 minutes via Jayadev Vihar and Patia. Prepaid taxis and rideshare cabs are readily available at airport arrival terminals.
From Cuttack, the park lies 18 km to the south via Trisulia Bridge over the Kathajodi River. The scenic riverside drive takes around 35 minutes under normal traffic conditions.
The entrance plaza features an automated multi-level parking complex capable of holding 500 cars and 1,000 two-wheelers. Secure parking fees are ₹50 for cars and ₹20 for motorized two-wheelers.
After your wildlife tour, you can enjoy exhilarating family rides at Nicco Park Bhubaneswar or slide down aquatic slides at Ocean World Water Park. Cultural explorers can visit the famous temples in Odisha or plan refreshing scenic weekend getaways from Bhubaneswar.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nandankanan Zoo
Is Nandankanan Zoo open on Mondays?
Nandankanan Zoo remains closed every Monday throughout the year for enclosure sanitation, veterinary health routines, and deep infrastructure maintenance. The gates operate normally from Tuesday through Sunday according to seasonal summer and winter schedules.
How can visitors book Nandankanan entry tickets online?
Travelers can book entry tickets and safari passes through the official website at nandankanan.org or via their automated WhatsApp service. Online booking generates a digital pass with a QR code that allows fast paperless admission through turnstile gates.
How much does the Nandankanan safari bus ride fee cost?
The combined tiger and lion safari costs ₹100 per person in air-conditioned coaches and ₹65 in non-AC safari buses. Separate bear and herbivore safari routes cost an additional ₹15 each per passenger at the central ticket kiosk.
How far is Nandankanan from Bhubaneswar railway station?
The zoological park is located 15 km north of Bhubaneswar railway station along the well-paved Barang arterial highway. The journey takes between 35 and 45 minutes using air-conditioned Mo Bus Route 10 or local prepaid taxis.
Are outside food and plastic bottles allowed in Nandankanan?
Outside cooked meal packets are strictly prohibited inside animal enclosure walkways to protect captive wildlife from illness. Plastic water bottles require a ₹10 refundable security deposit at the entrance gate, which is reimbursed upon exit when presenting the empty container.
What are the operating timings of Nandankanan Zoological Park?
During the summer season from April to September, the park opens from 07:30 AM to 05:30 PM with ticket counters closing at 04:30 PM. In winter from October to March, the park opens from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM with ticket windows closing at 04:00 PM.
What is the cost of battery operated vehicles at Nandankanan?
Guided Battery-Operated Vehicles charge a flat fare of ₹80 per passenger for hop-on hop-off transit across major walking loops. These silent eco-buggies provide convenient transit for senior citizens, young children, and travelers with reduced physical mobility.
