{"id":83896,"date":"2024-09-26T11:32:38","date_gmt":"2024-09-26T11:32:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/?p=83896"},"modified":"2025-01-02T11:01:49","modified_gmt":"2025-01-02T11:01:49","slug":"chhatbir-zoo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/chhatbir-zoo\/","title":{"rendered":"Chhatbir Zoo: An Ultimate Travel Guide To Punjab\u2019s Wildlife Paradise"},"content":{"rendered":"

On the outskirts of Chandigarh lies Chhatbir Zoo, also known as the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park. Located in Punjab\u2019s 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.<\/em><\/p>\n

Quick Details About Chhatbir Zoo<\/h2>\n

Chhatbir Zoo Address:<\/strong> Chattbir Zoo Rd, Chhat, Punjab 140603
\nChhatbir Zoo Timings:<\/strong> 9 AM – 5 PM (closed on Monday)
\nChhatbir Zoo Ticket price:<\/strong> \u20b960 for adult, \u20b925 for children
\nBest Time To Visit:<\/strong> October to March<\/p>\n

How To Reach<\/h2>\n
\"It<\/div>\n

Photo: Oleksandr P \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

When you are planning a visit down to this amazing zoo, a well-planned itinerary makes all the difference. <\/p>\n

By Air:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

By Road:<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

By Rail:<\/strong> If you are considering taking a train, Chandigarh Railway Station is your nearest station. From there, you\u2019d need to take a taxi or a public bus. Autos are available to help you get to the attraction.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Top Places For The Best Food In Ludhiana<\/a><\/p>\n

Things To Do At Chhatbir Zoo<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

1. Enjoy A Lion Safari<\/h3>\n
\"Gear<\/div>\n

Photo: Frans van Heerden \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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\u2019ll 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\u2019t missing out on any experience while visiting. Also, you will receive a guide on the dos and don\u2019ts when it comes to the lion safari, so make sure you are following them.<\/p>\n

2. Birdwatching In the Aviary<\/h3>\n
\"While<\/div>\n

Photo: Walton LaVonda \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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\u2019s another benefit. You can also take a stroll around the aviary, capture photographs and explore the diverse species of birds.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Best Food In Jalandhar<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Visit The Reptile House<\/h3>\n
\"Consider<\/div>\n

Photo: Anil Sharma \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

If you aren\u2019t 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\u2019t disrupting them in their natural habitats.<\/p>\n

4. Spot Exotic Animals<\/h3>\n
\"Spotting<\/div>\n

Photo: abhimanyu photowork \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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\u2019t disruptive. <\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Maharaja Ranjit Singh Fort<\/a><\/p>\n

Places To Visit Around Chhatbir Zoo<\/h2>\n

For those looking to extend their trip, several interesting attractions near the zoo are worth exploring.<\/p>\n

1. Sukhna Lake<\/h3>\n
\"Sukhna<\/div>\n

Photo: Eatcha \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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\u2019t your cup of tea. Also, during the winter months, the lake transforms into a birdwatching heaven, especially with the migratory birds around.<\/p>\n

Distance From The Zoo:<\/strong> 23 km
\nTimings:<\/strong> 5 AM – 9 PM<\/p>\n

2. Mata Mansa Devi Temple<\/h3>\n
\"Mata<\/div>\n

Photo: Aerorahulraj \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Distance From The Zoo:<\/strong> 21.8 km
\nTimings:<\/strong> 5 AM – 9 PM<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> New Year Party In Ludhiana<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Rock Garden<\/h3>\n
\"Nek<\/div>\n

Photo: Antanana \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Another must-visit is Nek Chand\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

Distance From The Zoo:<\/strong> 23.7 km
\nTimings:<\/strong> 9 AM – 6 PM<\/p>\n

Where To Stay<\/h2>\n
\"There<\/div>\n

Photo: Curtis Adams \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

As the zoo is centrally located in Zirakpur, Punjab, finding good accommodations nearby won\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Nirvana Adventure Park Hoshiarpur<\/a><\/p>\n

Where To Eat<\/h2>\n
\"You<\/div>\n

Photo: Gunshe Ramchandani \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

Tips For Travellers<\/h2>\n
\"Keeping<\/div>\n

Photo: Barabara Rubele \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

If you are planning to explore this zoo in Punjab, consider following the tips mentioned below. <\/p>\n