The park hosts the world's first captive-born white tiger population, originating from normal-colored parents in 1980.
The resident Kanjia Lake is a designated Wetland of National Importance under the National Wetland Conservation Programme.
It maintains an extensive botanical garden covering over 75 hectares within its boundaries.
The zoo serves as a major rescue and rehabilitation center for injured wildlife found within Odisha's forest regions.
Nandankanan is one of the few zoos in India to possess an aquarium with a dedicated freshwater exhibit.
Nandankanan Zoological Park is recognized for being the first zoo in the world to breed the endangered white tiger in captivity. Situated along the periphery of the Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, the facility spans over 400 hectares of forest land. It houses the Kanjia Lake, a major wetland ecosystem that supports a diverse range of migratory bird species. The zoo is a nodal center for the conservation of the Gharial crocodile, featuring a specialized captive breeding program. The safari section allows visitors to traverse naturalistic enclosures designed for large carnivores, including tigers and lions. The site functions as a botanical garden and a biological park, integrating ex-situ and in-situ conservation efforts. It currently operates under the administrative control of the Forest Department of the Government of Odisha.
The viewing bridge over Kanjia Lake during sunset.
Utilize the designated battery-operated vehicles to traverse the large premises efficiently.
Carry binoculars to spot migratory birds near the Kanjia Lake viewing decks.
Prioritize the morning hours to observe peak animal activity before the midday heat sets in.
Avoid visiting during the height of the summer monsoon season when some paths may become muddy and animal visibility decreases.
Closed to the public on Mondays for maintenance and sanitation.
Maintain silence near animal enclosures; do not feed, provoke, or attempt to photograph animals using flash.
