Chhatbir Zoo (Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park) - a couple of monkeys sitting on top of a fence
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Chhatbir Zoo (Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park)

4.3
·27k reviews·Chhat, India

Explore diverse wildlife, including lions and tigers, at Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, a budget-friendly zoo near Chandigarh.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)

Animals are most active.

CrowdLow
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Chhatbir Zoo (Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park) - a couple of monkeys sitting on top of a fence

Chhatbir Zoo (Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park)

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)

Animals are most active.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore diverse wildlife, including lions and tigers, at Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, a budget-friendly zoo near Chandigarh.

4.3
(27k reviews)

"A delightful mix of education, entertainment, and nature's beauty within a budget-friendly package."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Safari Tickets Early

Safari rides can get popular; book your tickets in advance to secure a spot.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is vast, so comfortable footwear is essential for a full day of exploration.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lion Safari Adventure

Lion Safari Adventure

Safari Zone

Experience a thrilling ride for an up-close encounter with majestic lions in their natural habitat.

Reddit
Diverse Animal Collection

Diverse Animal Collection

Various Enclosures

Marvel at a wide array of animals, from the rare white tiger to ostriches, bears, and reptiles.

InstagramReddit
Dinosaur Park

Dinosaur Park

Dinosaur Park Section

Step back in time with impressive dinosaur models, a hit with kids and adults alike.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Animal Sightings

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see animals active. Many creatures tend to rest during the midday heat, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit

Comfortable Footwear is a Must

Chhatbir Zoo spans a large area, so comfortable shoes are essential for exploring. Consider bringing a stroller or renting an electric cart if you have young children or prefer not to walk long distances. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)
Why
Animals are most active.
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon (3 PM - 5 PM)
Why
Cooler temperatures, active animals.
Crowd
Medium
When
October to March
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Protecting Wildlife, Preserving the Future 🐾 | Punjab Parks Department is redefining conservation by transforming safaris and zoos into immersive experience parks. Together, let’s celebrate the beauty of wildlife and the efforts to protect it across Punjab! 🌿✨ #WildlifeConservation #PunjabPakistan #ExperienceParks #SustainableFuture #amnaashrafff #foodvlogger #ajtics
@amnaashrafff
52K likes • 1.2M views

🎯 Book Safari Tickets Early

Safari rides can get popular; book your tickets in advance to secure a spot. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is vast, so comfortable footwear is essential for a full day of exploration. Reddit

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. Lying on the Chandigarh-Zirakpur-Patiala route, this zoo is located about 20 km away from Chandigarh. The zoo was christened as the Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park after then govern...
tricity_youth
402 likes • 23.8K views
Also famed as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, Chhatbir Zoo Chandigarh is spread across a massive area of grasslands. Home to an extensive number of exotic flora and fauna, this Zoological Park is a perfect spot for a family day out and one of the most famous zoo near Chandigarh. 🌟Monday is closed. 🌟 Best time to visit - oct to March 🌟9 to 5 🌟 Seperate charges for Lion safari - Rs 75 per pers...
chandigarhmyheart
2K likes • 55.3K views

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry water bottles or purchase refreshments; drinking water coolers are available. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Consider Strollers/Carts

Rent a stroller or electric cart for kids to manage the long distances easily. Reddit

Chhatbir Zoo, also known as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, is a renowned zoological park near Chandigarh. Here are some details about the zoo: Location: It’s situated on the Chandigarh-Zirakpur-Patiala Road, about 20 km from Chandigarh. Area: The zoo spans approximately 200 acres of land1. Timings: Open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, except on Mondays. Attractions: Visitors can enjoy a lion saf...
aarundhchauhan
35 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Safari Tickets Early

Safari rides can get popular; book your tickets in advance to secure a spot. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The zoo is vast, so comfortable footwear is essential for a full day of exploration. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

Carry water bottles or purchase refreshments; drinking water coolers are available. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Consider Strollers/Carts

Rent a stroller or electric cart for kids to manage the long distances easily. Reddit

📸 Capture Wildlife Moments

Bring your camera to photograph the diverse species and enjoy the natural beauty. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(27k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chhatbir Zoo offers a diverse collection of animals, including a popular Lion Safari and a fun Dinosaur Park, making it a good value for families and budget travelers. While some visitors find the number of animals limited and maintenance could be improved, the zoo provides an enjoyable day out with opportunities for picnics and close encounters with wildlife. Reddit

"The zoo offers an exciting experience for wildlife lovers, housing a diverse range of animals that one would typically encounter in the wild. From the tall and graceful ostrich to the powerful bears, majestic tigers, and regal lions, the collection here is truly impressive. Visitors can also spot many other fascinating species, making it a great place for both learning and leisure.

One of the main highlights is the safari experience. For just ₹75 per person, guests can enjoy a thrilling lion and deer safari, which gives a closer and more immersive view of these magnificent animals in a semi-natural environment. Watching a lion in its territory or observing deer moving gracefully in open spaces adds a touch of adventure to the visit.

The general entry ticket to the zoo is reasonably priced at ₹100, making it affordable for families, school trips, or casual outings. The pathways are easy to navigate, and there are plenty of spots to pause and watch the animals at your own pace. Whether you are an animal enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a pleasant day out, this zoo offers a delightful mix of education, entertainment, and nature’s beauty—all within a budget-friendly package."

MD YASIR BASHIR

"Ticket price is ₹100 per person, but honestly not worth it. Very few animals to see, most of the enclosures are empty, and the place looks poorly maintained. Feels more like walking in an empty park than a proper zoo."

Vikky Kumar

"I often visit this place. It’s quite cozy and pleasant. They provide a ferry service for those who have difficulty walking, and the fare is ₹60 per person.
The zoo entry fee is ₹100 for adults and ₹50 for children.
Additionally, if you wish to go on the Lion and Deer Safari, the charge is ₹75 per person." Along with that they have dinosaur and reptile house section which is totally free.
Currently, they don't have enough animal's."

Meenu B

What People Like

Affordable entry fees
Lion Safari experience
Dinosaur Park for kids

What People Dislike

Limited animal variety
Maintenance concerns
Animals resting during day

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chhatbir Zoo, also known as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, is located about 20 km from Chandigarh on the Chandigarh-Zirakpur-Patiala Road. You can reach it by car, taxi, or local bus services. Instagram+1

Yes, the zoo has a large parking space, but it can get busy during peak times, so you might need to self-park. Reddit

For those who find walking difficult, the zoo offers a ferry service for ₹60 per person and electric carts for travel and sightseeing, typically costing around ₹100 per person. Reddit

Yes, it's situated on a major route and accessible by local buses connecting Chandigarh, Zirakpur, and Patiala. Instagram

Hiring a taxi or using a ride-sharing service from Chandigarh is a convenient option for a day trip, offering flexibility. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The general entry ticket is ₹100 for adults and around ₹50 for children. Children below 2 years enjoy free entry. Reddit

The Lion and Deer Safari is an additional charge of ₹75 per person. Reddit

Yes, the Dinosaur Park and Reptile House sections are free to enter. Reddit

The zoo is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Instagram+1

Yes, the zoo is closed on Mondays. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can see a variety of animals including lions, tigers (including white tigers), deer, ostriches, bears, elephants, owls, crocodiles, and many more birds and reptiles. InstagramReddit

The Lion Safari offers a unique opportunity to see lions up close in a semi-natural environment for a small fee, which many visitors find thrilling. Reddit

Yes, there is a large garden area with good carpet grass, suitable for picnics. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons are best as animals are more active during cooler parts of the day. InstagramReddit

While some visitors mention areas needing maintenance, the animals appear healthy and well-cared for, with well-maintained pathways and drinking water coolers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, refreshments are available for purchase at various points inside the zoo. Reddit

Absolutely, the zoo has a large garden area perfect for picnics, so bringing your own food is a great option. Reddit

Typically, you'll find snacks, beverages, and light meals suitable for a day out. Reddit

While there are refreshment stalls, dedicated restaurants might be limited. It's best to check on-site for current offerings. Reddit

Bringing your own food for a picnic is a popular and budget-friendly choice, but refreshments are available if needed. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed, and it's a great place to capture wildlife. Instagram

The safari zones, aviaries, and enclosures with active animals offer excellent photography opportunities. Reddit

While generally permitted, always be mindful of signage and avoid using flash photography that might disturb the animals. TikTok

A camera with a good zoom lens is recommended to capture animals from a distance. Instagram

Yes, the Dinosaur Park is a popular spot for photos, especially for families. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chhatbir Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. The Dinosaur Park is a guaranteed hit with children, offering a fun and educational experience with life-sized models. Instagram The Lion Safari provides an exciting adventure, and the variety of animals, from playful monkeys to majestic peacocks, will keep young ones engaged. Instagram Consider renting a stroller or an electric cart to make navigating the large zoo easier for little legs. Reddit Pack plenty of snacks and water, or plan for a picnic in the designated garden areas. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Chhatbir Zoo is very budget-friendly. The general entry fee is quite reasonable at ₹100 for adults, with children paying half price. Reddit The Dinosaur Park and Reptile House are free additions to your ticket. Reddit For an extra ₹75, you can experience the Lion Safari, which offers great value. Reddit Bringing your own food for a picnic is a cost-effective way to manage dining expenses during your visit. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Chhatbir Zoo offers numerous opportunities to capture stunning wildlife shots. The Lion Safari provides excellent opportunities for close-up shots of lions in their habitat. Reddit The diverse range of birds, reptiles, and mammals in their enclosures also make for great subjects. Reddit Consider bringing a camera with a good zoom lens to get the best shots from a distance. Instagram Remember to be mindful of lighting conditions and avoid flash photography that might disturb the animals. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Wildlife at Chhatbir Zoo

Chhatbir Zoo, officially known as Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, is home to a diverse range of animals, offering visitors a glimpse into the wild. The collection includes majestic big cats like lions and tigers, including the rare white tiger, which is a significant draw for visitors. Instagram You can also find various herbivores such as deer, and a variety of birds, reptiles, and other mammals. The zoo aims to provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to observe these creatures in enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats as much as possible. TikTok

The Lion Safari is a standout attraction, where visitors can embark on a thrilling ride in a bus to see lions roaming freely in a large, dedicated area. This experience is often highlighted as a must-do for its proximity and the sense of adventure it provides. Reddit Beyond the safari, the zoo features a Dinosaur Park, which is particularly popular with children, offering a fun and educational journey back in time with life-sized dinosaur models. Instagram+1

While the zoo boasts a variety of species, some visitors have noted that certain enclosures may appear less populated or that animals might be resting during certain hours. Reddit However, the overall experience is enhanced by the zoo's commitment to conservation and providing a naturalistic environment for its inhabitants. TikTok The well-maintained pathways and available amenities like drinking water coolers contribute to a comfortable visit for all guests.

Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Timings, and Tips

To make the most of your visit to Chhatbir Zoo, understanding the logistics is key. The zoo is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, but it's important to note that it remains closed on Mondays. Instagram+1 The general entry fee is ₹100 for adults and ₹50 for children, making it an affordable outing. Reddit For an enhanced experience, the Lion and Deer Safari is available for an additional ₹75 per person, offering a closer look at these magnificent animals. Reddit

Given the zoo's expansive grounds, comfortable footwear is highly recommended, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Reddit For families with young children or those who prefer a less strenuous exploration, renting strollers or electric carts is a practical option. Reddit The zoo also provides a ferry service for a nominal fee. Reddit To ensure you see the animals at their most active, plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon, as they tend to rest during the midday heat. InstagramReddit

Visitors can also enjoy the free-to-enter Dinosaur Park and Reptile House. Reddit While refreshments are available for purchase within the zoo, many visitors opt to bring their own food for picnics, utilizing the spacious garden areas. Reddit Photography is encouraged, so bring your camera to capture the diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Instagram

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