Nandankanan Zoological Park
Nandankanan Zoological Park is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary situated in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It is spread across 400 hectares and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. Nandankanan is home to various flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Asiatic Lion, Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Blackbuck, and Indian Python.
The park also serves as a breeding ground for many endangered species, with its captive breeding programme having successfully bred and reintroduced the endangered Olive Ridley turtle into Chilika Lake. The park also has an impressive array of avian species, with more than 200 bird species recorded here.
The primary attractions of Nandankanan are its safari rides, which take visitors through the lush forest and allow them to spot some of the wildlife. The park also has an aquarium, a reptile house, and a butterfly park.
Places To Visit Near Nandankanan Zoological Park:
There are other places to visit near Nandankanan. These include the nearby Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, dating back to the 2nd century BC. The caves are an important piece of Odisha’s history known for their intricate carvings. Other places worth visiting include the Botanical Garden, home to various plants and trees, and the Dhauli Giri Peace Pagoda, a Buddhist stupa with amazing views of the surrounding countryside.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, the nearby Chandaka Elephant Sanctuary offers a chance to interact with these majestic creatures and learn about their conservation. The nearby Chilika Lake is also a great spot for bird watching and spotting some of the area's rare and endangered bird species.
Nandankanan Zoological Park is a great destination for a unique wildlife experience. With its wide variety of flora and fauna and its proximity to other interesting attractions, it is well worth a visit.
