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 Nandan Kanan is a one-stop shop for entertainment and wildlife tours in Orissa. Tours to Nandan Kanan or the 'garden of pleasure' lives up to the expectation that its name inspires in the interested tourists.
Set amidst the Chandaka Forests in Khurdha on 4.4 sq km of area, Nandan Kanan is an amalgamation of a wildlife sanctuary, animal zoo, botanical garden, Kanjia Lake, amusement park and nature trails. Easily accessible from Bhubaneswar (20 km), it is also quiet near to the Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary.
There are some interesting trivia related to Nandan Kanan, Orissa. It happens to be the only zoo where a tigress checked in voluntarily in 1967 when tiger population was near extinction. Nandan Kanan also happens to be the first captive-breeding center for Gharials and a sanctuary for white tigers that too were rescued from the brink of extinction. You too can see these endangered species on your tour to Nandan Kanan in Orissa.
Besides the 34 white tigers that are thriving in captivity, there are other endangered species (68 in total) that are protected within the wildlife sanctuary and zoo in Nandan Kanan. These species include three species of Indian Crocodiles, Asiatic Lion, Lion tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Indian Pangolin and mouse deer. There are several species of birds (81), fishes and reptiles within the wildlife sanctuary in Orissa that will keep you occupied on your tour to Nandan Kanan.
The schools of freshwater fishes can be studies at any of the 34 aquariums on your tour to Nandan Kanan. A life sized Tyrannosaurus Rex stands as a sentinel on the gates of the Reptile Park that is home to crocodiles, lizards, turtles and snakes. The Reptile Park at Nandan Kanan is apt to introduce your kids to the world of reptiles, thereby infusing interest and eliminating fear from your kids mind.
You can also go on safaris to the Nandan Kanan wildlife sanctuary and see the majestic Asiatic lions and rare white tigers roaming freely in their natural habitats. You too can enjoy the wildlife at Nandan Kanan on a safari bus specially designed to keep you safe and sound as you move through the tiger and lion territory.
The Botanical Garden over the Kanjia Lake can be visited by taking the ropeway from the zoo. You can also go on boat rides on the lake or get your kids to board the toy train on your tour to Nandan Kanan.
The presence of so many entertainment options for the entire family makes Nandan Kanan (open throughout the year) a great place for daylong excursions on your tour to Orissa.
There are many hotels and lodges near the Nandan Kanan wildlife sanctuary where you can stay comfortably during your tour to Orissa.
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