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This is one of India’s few well-known zoological parks near Naya Raipur in Chhattisgarh. It has a wide range of adventure, education, and conservation opportunities. Visitors can view wild animals in near-to-natural conditions and this zoo is home to a variety of animal species. Besides this, the zoo places emphasis on environmental sustainability; it’s also a hub for animal education and promotes nature walks, guided tours, and conservation affairs. Whether you are an animal enthusiast or not, Nandan Van Zoo will make your day with your family genuinely memorable and enriching.
Location
Photo: VishuN / Wikimedia Commons
Nandan Van Zoo is situated in the serene surroundings of Naya Raipur, about 35 kms from Chhattisgarh’s capital, Raipur City. The zoo is suitably located within the Naya Raipur Atal Nagar Development Authority area. Being a new city meant it was accorded modern infrastructure during its establishment.
How To Reach Nandan Van Zoo
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By Road: Nandan Van Zoo is about 35 kms from Raipur. The roads are accessible, so they can be easily reached by car, taxi, or bus. Ample parking is available at the zoo complex.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Raipur Junction, 40 kms from the zoo. One can hire a taxi from here or take a bus to the zoo. The journey will take approximately an hour.
By Air: The nearest Airport is Swami Vivekananda Airport, Raipur, 30 kms from the zoo. Taxis and rented cars are available at the airport, and one can reach Nandan Van Zoo directly.
Places To Visit Near Nandan Van Zoo
There are many places and attractions to visit near this zoo like temples and fun water parks:
1. Jatmai Temple
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The Jatmai temple is about 25 kms away from Nandan Van Zoo. It contains an essential place of pilgrimage amidst the dense forests. The goddess it has been dedicated to is Goddess Jatmai. Generally, this place is visited for its peaceful environment for meditation and relaxation. The area also encompasses natural waterfalls, enhancing their aesthetic value and making them a potential site for visitors and nature lovers. It represents perfection in architecture unmatched by the others, set amidst serenity and life carvings.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. MM Fun City
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MM Fun City is Chhattisgarh’s largest water and amusement park, about 20 kilometres from Nandan Van Zoo. It contains thousands of pools, water slides, and water rides meant for visitors of all ages. The wave pools, lazy rivers, and children’s play areas add to the family entertainment in the park. In other words, it is an ideal place to spend a thrilling yet leisurely day at MM Fun City, as it combines the most exciting aqua sports with comfortable lounging sites.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
3. Purkhouti Muktangan
Photo: VishuN / Wikimedia Commons
Roughly 30 kms from the zoo, Purkhouti Muktangan is an open-air museum elaborately celebrating Chhattisgarh’s cultural heritage. The museum stretches over a vast landscape and houses life-size exhibitions, sculptures, and traditional artefacts depicting the rich tribal culture and history of the state. There are sections devoted to various aspects of Chhattisgarh’s heritage, depicting folk art, dance forms, and the traditional lifestyle of Chhattisgarh. The museum is not only a storehouse of culture, but its beautifully laid-out garden presents a serene and informative visit for visitors keen to learn more about the region’s traditions.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
4. Urja Park
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About 22 kilometres from the zoo is a unique energy park, Urja Park, blending education with enjoyment. The Park is designated to hold participatory exhibits and displays about renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. In this way, the visitors can participate in hands-on learning. The Park represents the educational aspects of sustainable energy and the conservation of the environment through amusement. Beautiful gardens, eco-friendly models, and info-kiosks make Urja Park a must-visit haunt for school groups, families, and visitors interested in learning sustainable living.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Banjari Mata Mandir
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Banjari Mata Mandir is a pilgrim temple approximately 30 kms from Nandan Van Zoo. It is dedicated to Goddess Banjari. This temple is famous for its colourful festivals and religious congregations, where thousands of devotees celebrate and seek blessings. The temple’s surroundings are pictorial and provide a relaxing retreat for visitors who desire to combine spiritual devotion with natural beauty. The serene environment, coupled with the historical entity of the temple, makes it a must-visit when exploring Chhattisgarh.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Things To Do
There are many things to do at this zoo like wildlife safaris, nature walks, and educational tours that provide the perfect experience.
1. Wildlife Safari
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Go on an exciting wildlife safari in large enclosures at the zoo, where you can spot tigers, spotted deer, and mighty elephants. Safaris are, in fact, good opportunities to spot these animals as they help create an unforgettable experience.
2. Nature Walks
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Take a nature walk and enjoy the serenity of the zoo’s surroundings. These walks are excellent for bird watching and learning about the local flora. While walking through the beautiful landscape, you will notice numerous plant species and various avian species.
3. Educational Tours
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This zoo offers educational tours that will enlighten your mind on the critical importance of conservation. Guided tours are conducted in this zoo to bring its visitors into contact with the various steps taken to protect endangered species and the place of conservation in maintaining a balance of biodiversity. Visitors are enlightened on different conservation efforts and how they help secure the future of wildlife, making the tours informative and inspiring.
Where To Stay
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Hotel Babylon International, Raipur, offers luxurious stays about 35 kilometres away and, therefore, is one of the finest places from which one can travel to Nandan Van Zoo. For a more quiet stay, Mayfair Lake Resort, about 30 kilometres from the zoo, is a haven with serene lakeside views. On the other hand, budget travellers would like The Landmark, about 25 kms away, as it offers cosy, affordable accommodation with basic amenities.
Where To Eat
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After visiting Nandan Van Zoo, indulge your taste buds in a delicious meal at Ambrosia Restaurant in Raipur, which is about 30 kms away from the zoo. It serves a variety of Indian and continental cuisine with flair. If you want a casual dinner, Mocha Café, Raipur, is your place, about 35 kms away, serving an eclectic mix of global cuisines. If you fancy local flavours, Girnar Restaurant, situated about 25 kilometres from the zoo, is famous for serving authentic Chhattisgarhi cuisine for a real taste of the region.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: MARIOLA GROBELSKA / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The best time to visit Nandan Van Zoo is from October to March, as the weather remains pleasant. The Zoological park can be explored easily with outdoor activities. Monsoon seasons, from June to September should be avoided due to heavy rains, which may badly affect the accessibility and visibility of animals.
Other Factors To Consider
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Tips For Travellers
- Light fabrics would do fine and are apt for walking and outdoor exploration.
- Water, snacks, and sunscreen for hydration and protection from the sun.
- Keep your distance and observe the zoo’s visitor and animal safety guidelines.
- One should bring a good camera to capture Nandan Van Zoo photos but avoid using a flash camera since it may irritate the animals.
Nandan Van Zoo presents a unique blend of wildlife with education and amusement. Hence, this zoo is a must-visit place for any Chhattisgarh-bound tourist. Whether one is an animal lover, a family looking for fun outings, or a tourist who looks to seek and understand the local culture, it has something to offer. From good facilities to many animal species in beautiful natural surroundings, Nandan Van Zoo promises a time of learning and fun that will be remembered for generations.
Cover Photo: Wilkins Morales / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
