Tucked away in the heart of Odisha lies a place where nature and wildlife coexist in perfect harmony—Nandankanan Zoological Park. But how did this sprawling sanctuary get its name? “Nandankanan” literally means “Garden of the Gods,” and there’s a mythic quality to this place that justifies its divine title.
The story goes that in 1967, just as the zoo was being established, an aging tigress named Kannan found her way into the enclosure of Pradeep, the park’s only tiger at the time. This wasn’t a mere coincidence but a romantic rendezvous that spanned over a decade until Kannan’s death in 1978.
But the wild romances didn’t stop there. Years later, a wild tiger named Nandan, enamored by the caged tigress within the park, scaled an 18-foot fence to be with his beloved. The result? Two adorable cubs in 2016. Love, it seems, knows no boundaries—not even those made of iron mesh.
Nandankanan: A Sanctuary Like No Other
Established on December 29, 1960, and spanning over 362 hectares, Nandankanan isn’t your typical zoo. Unlike most zoos, which are constructed within urban environments, Nandankanan is nestled within a natural forest setting, offering a unique blend of wilderness and conservation. The zoo was officially declared a sanctuary on August 3, 1979, expanding its protected area to 437 hectares, which includes the zoological park, a state botanical garden, and the enchanting Kanjia Lake—a recognized national wetland.
Meet the Residents: An Animal Kingdom Fit for Gods
Nandankanan is home to more than 3,073 animals across 154 species, including 1,198 mammals, 1,588 birds, 266 reptiles, and 21 amphibians. The zoo isn’t just about numbers; it’s about pioneering wildlife conservation. It became the world’s first zoo to breed white tigers in captivity when two normal-colored tigers gave birth to three white cubs in 1980.
This miraculous event turned Nandankanan into a global sensation, and since then, white tigers have become a regular feature here. The park is also renowned for its successful breeding programs of Ghariyals, a critically endangered species of crocodile, making it the world’s first captive breeding center for these unique reptiles.
But that’s not all—Nandankanan has also made a name for itself with its impressive collections of leopards, pangolins, lions, and vultures, among other species. It’s a veritable Noah’s Ark, but one where the animals are treated like royalty.
Safari Adventures: Up Close and Personal with the Wild
For those who think that a trip to the zoo is all about gazing at animals from a safe distance, Nandankanan’s safari rides will change your mind. This park was the first in India to introduce a white tiger safari, where visitors can get up close and personal with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The safari experience doesn’t stop there. There’s also a lion safari, bear safari, and herbivore safari, each offering a thrilling 20-minute drive through the meandering roads of the forest.
In the herbivore safari, you’ll encounter spotted deer, sambar, four-horned antelope, wild boars, and more, all roaming freely as you pass by. The bear safari, on the other hand, gives you a chance to observe sloth bears in their natural environment, a rare treat for wildlife enthusiasts.
Also Read: Simlipal Tiger Reserve: A Must-Visit for Wildlife Fans
Health Care for the Wild Ones: Where Animals are Kings and Queens
Nandankanan isn’t just a zoo; it’s a full-service animal care facility. The park boasts a state-of-the-art hospital that operates round the clock to address both emergencies and routine health care needs. The zoo’s caretakers are more than just staff; they’re family to the animals, hand-rearing orphaned offspring, preparing nutritious meals, and even giving the animals luxurious baths. There’s also a well-organized fodder system to cater to the dietary needs of the herbivores, and a specialized slaughterhouse to ensure the carnivores receive their meals as nature intended.
But what truly sets Nandankanan apart is its commitment to world-class care. The zoo continuously upgrades its enclosures, provides enrichment activities to keep the animals mentally stimulated, and ensures that each resident enjoys the highest standard of living.
Flora of Nandankanan: A Botanical Paradise
Nandankanan isn’t just about animals; it’s also a haven for plant lovers. The State Botanical Garden, established in 1963, spans 75 hectares and is home to over 700 species of plants, orchids, creepers, and cacti. This lush garden is a living library, where rare species of flowers, medicinal plants, and trees are on display for visitors to admire and study.
Walking through the garden, you’ll find a variety of plants that you won’t see anywhere else, making it a must-visit for anyone with a green thumb. The garden isn’t just for show; it plays a crucial role in the conservation and study of plant species, making Nandankanan a hub of botanical research.
Kanjia Lake: A Living Laboratory and Bird Watcher’s Paradise
Kanjia Lake, covering 66.1 hectares, is another jewel in Nandankanan’s crown. This serene body of water is more than just a pretty sight—it’s an important wetland that supports the park’s ecosystem. The lake is home to over 60 species of birds, including migratory birds that flock here in large numbers every year. Since 2000, billed storks have made this lake their seasonal home, building nests near the crocodile pond and adding to the park’s biodiversity.
The lake also serves as a living laboratory for educational programs, particularly for school children, who can learn about wetland ecosystems firsthand. For visitors, boating on the lake is an exhilarating experience, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of Nandankanan.
Major Attractions: Fun for All Ages
Nandankanan offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. Boating on Kanjia Lake is a favorite pastime, with options for paddling or rowing through the calm waters. The zoo also features a reptile park that houses rare and endangered species, as well as an aquarium showcasing a diverse array of marine life.
For the kids, a toy train ride along the Kanjia Lake is an absolute delight, offering a scenic tour of the park. And if that’s not enough, the aerial ropeway provides a bird’s-eye view of the entire zoo, the lake, and the botanical garden—a truly breathtaking experience.
The zoo also offers a unique walkthrough aviary where visitors can observe beautiful birds up close, watching them go about their daily activities in a natural setting. And for those interested in nocturnal animals, the zoo has a special house where you can see what these creatures are up to after dark.
Also Visit: Satkosia Sand Resort – Perfect for Eco-Tourism
More than Just a Zoo: Nandankanan’s Unique Features
Nandankanan is more than just a place to see animals—it’s a center for conservation and education. The zoo is the only one in India with an open-top leopard enclosure, allowing these majestic creatures to roam more freely than they would in a typical zoo setting. It’s also the only zoo in the country with a captive farm and slaughterhouse that meets the dietary needs of its carnivorous residents.
Additionally, Nandankanan is a pioneer in conservation breeding, particularly for endangered species like the Indian pangolin and the rattlesnake, the latter of which was first bred in captivity here. The park’s efforts have not gone unnoticed; it’s the only Zoological Park in India to be an institutional member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
How to Reach Nandankanan: Easy Access to a Natural Wonderland
Nandankanan is conveniently located just 15 kilometers from Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha. The Bhubaneswar railway station is 18 kilometers away, and Biju Patnaik International Airport is 20 kilometers from the park, making it easily accessible by train, air, or road.
For those planning an extended visit, tourist cottages are available inside Nandankanan for daytime accommodation, but prior reservation is required. Alternatively, there are plenty of lodging options in Bhubaneswar, ranging from budget hotels to luxury stays, ensuring you have a comfortable place to rest after a day of adventure.
More to Know About Nandankanan: Fun Facts and Highlights
- Nandankanan is the first zoo to breed both white and melanistic tigers.
- It’s the only conservation breeding center for Indian pangolins in the world.
- The park is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a testament to its global recognition.
- Nandankanan is the only zoo in India after which a train, the Nandankanan Express, has been named.
- It’s the third zoo in the country with a live animal feed center, nurturing and producing live feeds like guinea pigs, albino mice, chicks, and mealworms to meet the protein requirements of its birds and animals.
- The park is also the first zoological park in India to install electronic security systems.
- Nandankanan’s museum, which preserves trophies of rare dead animal species, is a draw for researchers and visitors alike.