With the onset of peak tourist season from November, Nandankanan Zoological Park is bracing for a massive influx of visitors ahead of Christmas and the New Year 2026.
Authorities are rolling out extensive measures to manage crowds and ensure tourist safety, especially after last winter recorded a single-day footfall of 43,000.
To avoid unpleasant situations between tourists and local villagers who earlier used the park premises as a thoroughfare, entry of villagers inside the zoo has been completely banned. They will now have to use the rear outer road. “Whatever directions come from the government later will be followed,” said park officials.
Key arrangements for the season include:
- Increased number of ticket counters to reduce queue time
- Expanded parking space
- Full CCTV coverage across the zoo and botanical garden
- Deployment of additional police personnel and park security guards
- Special deployment of women security guards
- More drinking water points and additional toilets
- On-site medical team, fire brigade and volunteers from Christmas to New Year
Assistant Deputy Conservator of Forests (Tourist Management) Mansmita Maharana stated, “We are expecting higher footfall than last year’s 43,000 visitors in a single day. Thousands of school and college students visit during this period. All steps have been taken so that tourists, especially women and children, feel safe and enjoy a hassle-free experience. Visitors will also get to see several new animal species this season.”
