Following an extraordinary influx of visitors during the Raja Festival, the Nandankanan Zoological Park and State Botanical Garden remain closed today, as confirmed by Deputy Director Sanath Kumar Narayan.
The zoo, which usually shuts its gates to visitors on Mondays, remained open on June 16 since it was the final day of the grand Raja celebrations. This exception led to an overwhelming response, with a staggering 78,322 visitors over the three-day period. On the last day alone, 18,134 tourists explored the zoo, while 1,274 visitors enjoyed the botanical garden.
Given this unprecedented turnout, officials decided to adjust the closure day to June 17, allowing time for maintenance and staff recovery. The administration urges visitors to check schedules before planning their trips.
Nandankanan Zoo, one of Odisha’s prime attractions, continues to draw massive crowds, especially during festive periods. With this year’s Raja Festival proving to be a tourism booster, the zoo’s temporary closure serves as a necessary pause after the festivities.
