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On the outskirts of Chandigarh lies Chhatbir Zoo, also known as the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park. Located in Punjab’s Zirakpur, it is a prominent wildlife sanctuary and zoo that is home to 1200+ animals. Visiting the zoo enables you to immerse yourself in the world of native and exotic animals and even indulge in the sprawling landscapes and carefully curated habitats that make it comfortable for the animals to spend their life in. Great for family trips and wildlife enthusiasts, this zoo provides a glimpse into the rich biodiversity up close. However, for a well-rounded experience, ensure that you are proceeding with a proper plan.
Quick Details About Chhatbir Zoo
Chhatbir Zoo Address: Chattbir Zoo Rd, Chhat, Punjab 140603
Chhatbir Zoo Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (closed on Monday)
Chhatbir Zoo Ticket price: ₹60 for adult, ₹25 for children
Best Time To Visit: October to March
How To Reach
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When you are planning a visit down to this amazing zoo, a well-planned itinerary makes all the difference.
By Air: For a comfortable trip, consider flying to Chandigarh International Airport from where you can take a taxi or a local bus to reach the zoo.
By Road: The zoo is well-connected by road, located just off the Chandigarh-Patiala highway (NH7). You can drive your vehicle or hire a taxi from Chandigarh or nearby towns to get to the attraction.
By Rail: If you are considering taking a train, Chandigarh Railway Station is your nearest station. From there, you’d need to take a taxi or a public bus. Autos are available to help you get to the attraction.
Things To Do At Chhatbir Zoo
Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or love exploring the numerous bird species around, there is a lot that you can indulge in for a fun-filled experience.
1. Enjoy A Lion Safari
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One of the zoo’s most thrilling experiences is the lion safari, which allows visitors to see majestic Asiatic lions in a semi-natural habitat. You’ll ride in a caged vehicle that takes you deep into the lion enclosure, giving you a close encounter with the king of the jungle. To ensure the safety of the visitors, the entire experience is done under the strict supervision of the zoo staff, so ensure that you aren’t missing out on any experience while visiting. Also, you will receive a guide on the dos and don’ts when it comes to the lion safari, so make sure you are following them.
2. Birdwatching In the Aviary
Photo: Walton LaVonda / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This zoo is a paradise for bird lovers, with its extensive aviary home to a variety of bird species such as peacocks, parrots, and migratory birds. There is a dedicated section just for birds, so if you are fascinated by them, ensure that you are prioritising visiting and exploring the individual birds inside the zoo. There are information boards available in front of each display, so that’s another benefit. You can also take a stroll around the aviary, capture photographs and explore the diverse species of birds.
3. Visit The Reptile House
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If you aren’t creeped out by reptiles and are instead genuinely fascinated by their existence, you can consider visiting the reptile house. It hosts a collection of snakes, crocodiles, and other reptiles, including the deadly King Cobra and Indian Python. The reptiles are housed in well-maintained enclosures that mimic their natural habitats, and detailed information boards help visitors learn more about these fascinating creatures. You do have to be mindful and respectful of the creatures and ensure that you aren’t disrupting them in their natural habitats.
4. Spot Exotic Animals
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Although quite rare, there are a few different exotic animals, including the Bengal tiger, white tiger, hippopotamus, and jaguars, which you can spot inside the zoo. The carefully maintained enclosures allow you to observe these animals up close, while the zoo’s expansive design ensures that the animals have sufficient space to roam. Also, most of the exotic animals in the zoo are rehabilitated animals, so ensure that your actions aren’t disruptive.
Places To Visit Around Chhatbir Zoo
For those looking to extend their trip, several interesting attractions near the zoo are worth exploring.
1. Sukhna Lake
Photo: Eatcha / Wikimedia Commons
Located a short drive from the zoo is Sukhna Lake, which is a man-made reservoir renowned for boating experiences. Located on the foothills of the Shivalik range, the views of the surrounding mountains and lush green landscape add to the beauty of the experience. There is a well-maintained promenade around the lake, which adds to the fun and adventure. You can walk around the lake if boating isn’t your cup of tea. Also, during the winter months, the lake transforms into a birdwatching heaven, especially with the migratory birds around.
Distance From The Zoo: 23 km
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
2. Mata Mansa Devi Temple
Photo: Aerorahulraj / Wikimedia Commons
For a well-rounded religious experience, Mata Mansa Devi Temple is another popular destination to visit and explore. The site is dedicated to Goddess Mansa Devi and it is said that the devotees that pray at the temple can overcome the hurdles in their life. The temple is quite serene and surrounded by picturesque gardens, which add to the charm of the visit further. It is one of the Shakti Peethas in India where the head of Devi Sati had fallen. The temple is spread across an area of 100 acres.
Distance From The Zoo: 21.8 km
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
3. Rock Garden
Photo: Antanana / Wikimedia Commons
Another must-visit is Nek Chand’s Rock Garden, a unique open-air exhibition of sculptures made from industrial and household waste. The highlight of this place lies in the innovation and creativity, especially with a special focus on sustainability. Walking through the gardens welcomes you with different waterfalls, flower gardens, an amphitheatre and even a Rag Doll Museum, which was established in memory of Nek Chand after his death.
Distance From The Zoo: 23.7 km
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Where To Stay
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As the zoo is centrally located in Zirakpur, Punjab, finding good accommodations nearby won’t be a hassle at all. The key is to find places that best align with your budget and your travel plans. A few of the highly-rated accommodations include Master Farm Resort, Treebo Trend JJ Crown, Choice Gardens Resort, Hotel Parkland and Hotel Ekant.
Where To Eat
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Being a tourist hotspot, there are numerous restaurants, dhabas and cafes around the zoo. Depending on what kind of cuisine you are in the mood for, you can go ahead and indulge in a variety of restaurants around including Zafrani Restaurant, Whispering Willows and Pahalwan Dhaba.
Tips For Travellers
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If you are planning to explore this zoo in Punjab, consider following the tips mentioned below.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the zoo is spread over a large area.
- Carry a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat during the summer months.
- Make sure to follow all safety instructions during the lion safari.
- Avoid feeding or disturbing the animals.
A trip down to Chhatbir Zoo is a must-experience when you are in Punjab. Getting to witness the majestic Asiatic lions up close and witnessing them in their natural habitats is quite a fascinating encounter. You can also learn about the native wildlife and the biodiversity that is predominantly found in the zoo. For a well-rounded exploration of the zoo, ensure that you are planning your trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
