Chhatbir Zoo Chandigarh

Chhatbir Zoo Chandigarh, located in Zirakpur near Chandigarh, is one of the most popular zoos in North India. Spread over over 504 acres, home to over 960 animals from around 94 different species.

Established in 1977, Chhatbir Zoo has emerged as an important conservation, education, and research center over the past few decades.

With well-laid paths winding through sprawling green grounds dotted with trees, lakes, and lawns, Chhatbir Zoo provides an ideal environment for animals and birds.

The zoo is divided into different sections based on geographical territories and other taxonomic criteria to simulate a natural habitat for the animals as far as possible.

The major sections in the zoo include the Lion Safari, Deer Park, Aviary Section, Reptile House, Aquarium, and Nocturnal House.

Lion Safari

One of the biggest attractions of Chhatbir Zoo is the Lion Safari established in 1982. Visitors can drive through this section in a special coach to closely view lions in natural settings.

Spread over about 100 acres, the Lion Safari simulates the African forests and grasslands. It is enclosed by 20-foot-high chain link fencing on all sides. More than 20 lions are housed in family groups to encourage breeding within pride.

The section also has other animals like Bengal Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Himalayan Black Bears, Jackals, and Hyenas. Visitors can watch these carnivores housed in separate moats and enclosures as the coach slowly progresses through the safari trail.

Deer Park

True to its name, Deer Park is home to various species of deer – Sambar deer, Blackbuck, Swamp deer, Hog deer, and Chital or Spotted deer. The landscape and vegetation are maintained just like the natural habitats of these species across various parts of India.

In addition to a sizeable population of different deer, the park also houses endangered species like Indian Wolf, Nilgai antelope, blackbuck, porcupines and monkeys. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the landscaped walkways to observe these animals up close.

Aviary Section

This is a bird lover’s paradise with over 600 birds from more than 70 species housed in the aviary section. The walk-in aviaries simulate the natural ecosystem preferred by the species housed here.

The immersive experience allows visitors to simply walk through the breathtakingly beautiful mini-forests laden with fruit trees and aquatic habitats.

The bird species include pheasants, turkeys, emus, parrots, hornbills, storks, cranes, pelicans, and other exotic local and migratory birds.

Reptile House

This section displays an interesting collection of reptiles like snakes, crocodiles, alligators, gharials, lizards, and turtles. Some major attractions at the reptile house include the estuarine crocodile, spectacled caiman, king cobra, and pythons.

Hatchlings and eggs of various reptilian species are also displayed to give insights into their breeding patterns. Well-designed enclosures housing these creatures have been thoughtfully created considering the unique habitat requirements suited to each of them.

The reptile house aims to make people aware of these intriguing members of the animal world and dispel common misconceptions.

Aquarium

The Aquarium section features various ornamental freshwater and marine fish species. Its main tank houses spectacular large Indian fish like Rohu, Katla, and Mrigal carp, huge turtles, and Alligator Gar.

Visitors can gaze at these swimming wonders and observe fascinating amphibians like star tortoises and turtles in other display areas.

While the freshwater section aquariums depict Indian aquatic ecosystems, the marine aquariums offer glimpses into the wondrous coral reefs and tropical waters worldwide.

Nocturnal House

Many interesting nocturnal animals like bats, rats, owls, civet cats, genet cats, and slow loris are housed in the Nocturnal Animal House. Specially designed enclosures showcase these species in environments that mimic their natural nocturnal habitats.

So when visitors walk through this section, even during the day, they observe these remarkable, rarely-seen creatures in action as they go about their normal activity patterns.

Interactive informational displays educate visitors, dispelling common myths about these animals. They give insights into unique physiological and behavioural adaptations that aid their nocturnal lifestyles.

Other Animal Enclosures

In addition to the major sections, the zoo has numerous spacious enclosures to house big animals like elephants, hippos, zebras, giraffes, and rhinos. Chhatbir Zoo provides special care for housing primates like gorillas, monkeys, lemurs, and gibbons.

It makes concerted efforts to ensure environmental enrichment by providing structural features and adequate stimuli needed by primates. Other attractions include enclosures for white tigers, leopards, striped hyenas, and many exotic birds.

Research and Conservation

While Chhatbir Zoo makes efforts to create an enjoyable and educative experience for visitors, the conservation of endangered species is one of its foremost priorities. Several endangered species bred in the zoo have been reintroduced in protected wildlife habitats.

Some past successes include reintroducing swamp deer, hog deer, blackbuck, Indian wolf, and golden langur into suitable habitats after captive breeding.

The Zoo authorities maintain detailed records of the health, breeding, diseases, etc, related to the animals housed here to aid conservation research for protecting threatened indigenous species.

Student researchers and wildlife experts frequently visit Chhatbir Zoo to conduct studies on various aspects of behavior and diseases plaguing wild animals.

Veterinary Facilities at Chhatbir Zoo

The zoo provides extensive veterinary care facilities for the health management of captive animals. There is a well-equipped veterinary hospital with enclosures for isolation and quarantine of newly acquired and sick animals.

Diagnostic pathological labs help test for infectious agents and parasites to monitor and prevent disease outbreaks. The veterinary staff is trained to handle emergencies, and a stock of life-saving drugs is maintained to manage illnesses.

Besides curative care during health issues, the hospital provides routine preventative medicine through scheduled deworming, vaccines, etc., for systemic health care of zoo inmates.

Education and Public Awareness

Chhatbir Zoo strives to promote public awareness regarding pressing wildlife conservation issues. Animal encounters and shows presenting interesting facts educate the masses about behavioral patterns and ecosystem interactions.

Chhatbir Zoo authorities organize special wildlife awareness events like summer camps for school students, photo exhibitions, and painting competitions. Seminars, lectures, movie screenings, and guided zoo walks are conducted regularly with naturalist groups and conservation NGOs.

The information displayed on signboards lends insights into the natural history and factors threatening rare species housed here. The education center also has reference resources, activities, and programs tailored for school excursions to inculcate conservation values.

Visitor Facilities at Chhatbir Zoo

Chhatbir Zoo boasts very good visitor amenities, making it convenient and enjoyable even for the disabled and elderly. Battery-operated vehicles are available to tour the entire zoo.

Other facilities include a cafeteria, souvenir shop, cloakroom, baby pram rentals, wheelchair availability, and clean, well-maintained washrooms at multiple locations. Drinking water kiosks and resting benches are ample in shady spots.

Located close to Chandigarh, Chhatbir Zoo can be comfortably covered in a half-day visit along with the famous Yadvindra Gardens adjacent to it. With so much to see and experience, this zoo certainly makes for an ideal family recreational outing for visitors of all ages.

From huge elephants and striped tigers to tiny colorful birds, Chhatbir Zoo showcases the incredible natural diversity of India. As you wander through seamlessly landscaped lush greenery dotted with lakes, you may feel transported into a wonderland lost in time.

The magical glimpses of exotic creatures worldwide and across Indian forests, wetlands, and mountains leave you humbled. As one becomes a quiet spectator to their unimaginable beauty and learns about threats looming over their fragile habitats, one cannot help but ponder over difficult conservation questions.

Like its iconic attractions, the decades-old Chhatbir Zoo is also fast evolving. As animal healthcare, visitor amenities, and recreational facilities are undergoing upgrades, this beloved green retreat beckons you to reconnect with wildlife. Plan a visit soon for an affair with undiluted natural splendor!

FAQ

Top 5 Places to Visit Near Chhatbir Zoo Chandigarh

Sukhna Lake – A beautiful artificial lake great for boating and relaxing. Just 16 km from the zoo.
Rock Garden – An artistic garden built from industrial and urban waste. Features sculptures, mosaic tiles, and more. 17 km away.
Rose Garden: Features over 1,600 rose species in a 20-acre garden. Popular for walks and picnics. 15 km from the zoo.
Pinjore Gardens – Historic 17th-century Mughal-style gardens with terraces, water features, and palace ruins. 22 km away.
Elante Mall – Modern shopping center with over 220 shops, a food court, and entertainment options like a theatre. About 23 km from the zoo.

How to Reach Chhatbir Zoo Chandigarh?

The zoo is located around 15-17 km outside Chandigarh. It can be reached by local buses, auto-rickshaws, taxis, or private vehicles via the Chandigarh-Zirakpur highway. Shared cabs are also easily available from various points in Chandigarh.

What are the timings for Chhatbir Zoo Chandigarh?

The zoo is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. It remains closed on Mondays.

What are the ticket prices for Chhatbir Zoo Chandigarh?

The ticket prices are – Adults: INR 30, Children (5-12 years): INR 15. Additional charges apply for still/video camera use.

What animals are found in Chhatbir Zoo?

Some key animals include the Asiatic lion, Bengal tiger, leopard, Indian wolf, hippos, sambar deer, emu, ostriches, crocodiles, Himalayan black bear, monkeys, and various birds.

What is the best time to visit Chandigarh?

October to February is generally considered the best time due to the pleasant weather. Late Monsoon months of August-September are also nice. Summers can get very hot.

What makes Chandigarh famous?

Chandigarh is famous for its extremely well-planned architecture and urban design, which were highly innovative for their time. The city landscape includes many parks, gardens, and green spaces. It also serves as a gateway to nearby hill stations.

How far is Chhatbir Zoo from Chandigarh Airport?

The Chhatbir Zoo is located approximately 35 km away from the Chandigarh International Airport. It takes around 1 hour to reach the zoo from the airport by car or taxi.

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