Overview
Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, also known as Chhatbir Zoo, is a popular wildlife sanctuary located 20 km from Chandigarh. It was inaugurated in 1977 and now covers 505 acres of land with over 1240 animals and birds from 103 different species.
Location Map
Entry Fee
Indian Citizens:
Adults: INR 50
Children (3-12 years old): INR 25
Foreign tourists:
Adults: INR 200
Children (3-12 years old): INR 100
Visit Timings
Winter Timings (October to February): 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Summer Timings (March to September): 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Things To Do
Mahendra Mohan Chaudhary, who was the governor of Punjab at the time, opened the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park in 1977. It is now called the Chhatbir Zoo. The zoo was established with a small number of animals from Guwahati Zoo in Assam but has now grown to become one of the largest zoological parks in North India, covering an area of 505 acres. The zoo is situated on the right bank of the Ghaggar river, with the Shivalik hills as a backdrop, surrounded by natural landscapes.
Over the years, the Chhatbir Zoo has become home to over 1240 animals and birds belonging to 103 different species. The main things to see at the zoo are the Asiatic Lion Reserve and the Royal Bengal Tiger Reserve. Tourists can take a close look at these magnificent creatures by riding an enclosed motor vehicle to the tiger’s shelter. The Deer Safari is also a popular attraction where Sambar, Spotted Deer, Black Buck, and Hog Deer roam freely in their habitat. The Lion Safari is an exciting experience for visitors, where they can witness the king of the jungle roaming freely in its natural forest habitat.
The zoo also features an artificial lake that attracts a large number of migratory birds during the winter months. The lake adds to the unique experience of visiting the Chhattisgarh Zoo. The zoo also has a peacock sanctuary, where these beautiful birds roam freely inside the lion safari, adding an extra layer of excitement for visitors.
Anyone who goes to Chandigarh must go to the Chhatbir Zoo, which used to be called the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park. The zoo offers a unique opportunity to see a variety of animals and birds in their natural habitats and is a true wildlife haven.
The timings to visit the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park (Chhatbir Zoo) are as follows:
Winter Timings (October to February): 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Summer Timings (March to September): 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
It is important to note that the zoo is closed on Mondays for maintenance. On holidays and special occasions, the times may change. It is best to check the official website or contact the zoo for the most up-to-date information.
The entry fee for Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park (Chhatbir Zoo) is as follows:
Indian Citizens:
Adults: INR 50
Children (3-12 years old): INR 25
Foreign tourists:
Adults: INR 200
Children (3-12 years old): INR 100
Please note that the entry fee is subject to change and it is advisable to check the official website or contact the zoo for the latest fee structure. Additionally, there may be additional charges for guided tours, animal shows, and other attractions within the park.
The following are the different ways to reach the zoo:
By Car: The zoo is located on the Chandigarh-Zirakpur-Patiala route and is easily accessible by car. Visitors can hire a taxi or drive their own vehicle to the zoo.
By Bus: The zoo is well connected by bus and there are frequent buses from Chandigarh, Mohali, and Zirakpur that stop at the zoo.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Chandigarh Railway Station, which is approximately 14.1 km away from the zoo. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the zoo.
By Air: The nearest airport is Chandigarh International Airport, which is approximately 11.8 km away from the zoo. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the zoo.
It is advisable to check the latest information and timings for the different modes of transportation before planning your trip to the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park.
Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park is a popular place for tourists to visit in Mohali, India. It is also called Chhatbir Zoo. Some of the main attractions at the zoo include:
These are some of the best things to see at Chhatbir Zoo. People who go there can expect to learn a lot and have a memorable time.
Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, which is also called Chhatbir Zoo, is an important part of India’s culture because it is a popular tourist destination and a place where people learn about wildlife and work to protect it.
Educational Significance: The zoo serves as an important educational resource for visitors, particularly children, who can learn about wildlife and conservation through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
Conservation Efforts: Chhatbir Zoo is committed to promoting environmental conservation and wildlife preservation and is involved in breeding programs for endangered species to help conserve these animals.
Cultural Heritage: The zoo gives visitors a unique chance to see a wide range of Indian wildlife, including species that are native to the area and have cultural meaning.
Community Outreach: The zoo is dedicated to community outreach and education and offers a variety of programs and activities to engage the local community and raise awareness about conservation and the importance of wildlife preservation.
These are just a few of the cultural significances of the Chhattisgarh Zoo, which is not only a popular tourist attraction but also an important center for wildlife education and conservation in India. The park plays an important role in promoting awareness about the rich cultural heritage and natural resources of the region and provides visitors with an immersive and educational experience.
Citizens can help keep Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park clean and safe by following these steps:
Tourists can help keep Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park clean and safe by following these steps:
Here is a table that shows the distance from the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park to various tourist attractions in Chandigarh.
Attraction | Distance (km) |
15.9 km | |
18.1 km | |
20.8 km | |
Garden of Fragrance | 21.1 km |
21.4 km | |
22.0 km | |
23.5 km | |
24.7 km | |
25.3 km |
The Chhatbir Zoo entry fee for kids between 3 and 12 years of age is INR 25, and for those over 12 years of age, the cost is INR 60. For children who are under 3 years of age, differently abled individuals, and media personnel, entry to the zoo is free.
Chhatbir Zoo (formally Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park), is a zoological park situated close to Zirakpur, India. The zoo was constructed in the 1970s and is home to a large variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles.
Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park manages a collection of 1,500 animals and hundreds of species. Founded in 1977, Mahendra Chaudhary Park is the largest zoo in the northern Punjab region of India and is located near the capital city of Chandigarh.
Chhatbir Zoo in Chandigarh happens to be a spot that is extremely close to the hearts of locals residing in the destination. Home to the Royal King of the Jungle, the best time to pay a visit to this destination is anytime during the winter season.
Chandigarh is the capital of the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana, and it is also a union territory in its own right. Located in the northwest of the country, Chandigarh is known for its modernist architecture and urban planning, which was designed by the French architect Le Corbusier in the 1950s.
