Key Facts About Chhatbir Zoo
Chhatbir Zoo, officially known as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, is a sprawling 200-hectare wildlife sanctuary located just 20 km from Chandigarh on the Patiala-Chandigarh Road in Punjab. Nestled on the northern bank of the Ghaggar River, the zoo attracts approximately 8.85 lakh (0.88 million) visitors annually, thanks to its well-managed safaris, India's longest walk-in aviary, and a clean, green campus set in a natural forest.
History and Design
The idea for the zoo took shape in the early 1970s, and it was officially inaugurated on 13 April 1977 by the then Governor of Punjab, Mahendra Chaudhary. The zoo was designed by architects Jeet Malhotra and D.K. Bahl from the Department of Architecture, Punjab, with guidance from a technical committee including N.S. Lamba, N.D. Bachkheti, and Pushap Kumar. The detailed plan was finalised on 29 September 1975. The design emphasises organic integration with the forest, featuring free-flowing passageways and sweeping animal enclosures that harmonise with the natural surroundings. Existing trees were preserved as much as possible, and all buildings are single-storied and low-profile to maintain a natural appearance.
Major Attractions
India's Longest Walk-in Aviary
The 300-metre-long walk-in aviary is the longest in India. It houses nearly 400 birds from around three dozen species, divided into five thematic zones: Terrestrial, Rock and Duck, Woodland, Japanese Trail, and Rainforest. This immersive experience allows visitors to walk among exotic and native birds in a natural setting.
Lion Safari
Spread over eight hectares, the Lion Safari lets lions roam freely in a forest-like enclosure. Visitors are driven through in specially designed caged vehicles, offering a safe yet thrilling opportunity to observe these big cats up close.
Deer Safari
Adjacent to the lion area, the Deer Safari covers 12 hectares and hosts a large population of deer grazing and moving naturally. It provides a peaceful contrast to the lion safari.
Migratory Bird Lake
A low-lying ditch on the north-west side has been transformed into a shallow lake covering about eight hectares. This lake attracts numerous migratory birds during winter, making it a favourite spot for birdwatchers.
Facilities and Conservation
The zoo includes a veterinary hospital, administrative office, staff quarters, Interpretation Centre, snack bars, rain shelters, and other public amenities. Its broader mission includes wildlife education, conservation of animals and habitats, environmental awareness, and recreation. The zoo serves as a living classroom for visitors of all ages.
What Visitors Should Know
- Location: 20 km from Chandigarh on Patiala-Chandigarh Road, Punjab.
- Best time to visit: Winter months for migratory birds; pleasant weather year-round.
- Highlights: Walk-in aviary, lion and deer safaris, lake with migratory birds.
- Facilities: Snack bars, rain shelters, interpretation centre.
FAQ
Where is Chhatbir Zoo located?
Chhatbir Zoo is situated on the banks of the Ghaggar River, about 20 km from Chandigarh on the Patiala-Chandigarh Road in Punjab.
What is the main attraction of Chhatbir Zoo?
The star attraction is India's longest walk-in aviary, stretching 300 metres and housing around three dozen bird species across five thematic zones.
When was Chhatbir Zoo established?
The zoo was inaugurated on 13 April 1977 by the then Governor of Punjab, Mahendra Chaudhary, after whom it is formally named.
What safaris are available at Chhatbir Zoo?
The zoo offers a Lion Safari spread over eight hectares and a separate Deer Safari covering 12 hectares, both providing close-up views in natural settings.