Zirakpur zoo is Mahendra Chaudhary Zoological Park, commonly known as Chhatbir Zoo, located at Chhat Village, Zirakpur-Patiala Highway, Punjab 140603, approximately 7 kilometers from Zirakpur bus stand and 20 kilometers from central Chandigarh. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed: Mondays and national holidays (26 January, 15 August, 2 October). Entry fee: Adults above 12 years — 50 to 100 rupees. Children 3 to 12 years — 20 to 50 rupees. Children below 3 years: free. This guide covers the zoo’s animals, safaris, facilities, and practical visitor information.
Chhatbir Zoo was inaugurated on 13 April 1977 by the then Governor of Punjab, Mahendra Mohan Chaudhary, after whom it is formally named. It is one of the largest zoological parks in North India, spanning 505 acres on the right bank of the Ghaggar River with the Shivalik Hills in the background.
Animals and Attractions at Chhatbir Zoo
Chhatbir Zoo houses 103 species and approximately 1,241 animals, including 369 mammals, 400 birds, and 20 reptiles across 18 different complexes. Star animals include the Royal Bengal Tiger (accessible via Tiger Safari), Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Hyenas, Bears, Monkeys, Deer, and Gharials.
The zoo’s walk-in aviary spans 300 metres and is described as India’s longest walk-in aviary, showcasing 32 species of indigenous and exotic birds including around 60 species total across terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. The Nocturnal House recreates darkness conditions to exhibit nocturnal animals in their natural behavioral patterns. The Reptile House showcases reptile species including various snake and lizard species.
Additionally, the Dinosaur Park is a newer attraction developed in partnership with Afterview Group with an investment of approximately 5 crore rupees, featuring life-sized dinosaur models for educational and entertainment purposes.
Lion Safari and Tiger Safari
The Lion Safari is one of Chhatbir Zoo’s most popular attractions, allowing visitors to travel through the lion enclosure in a caged vehicle (mini bus) for an up-close view of the animals. Cost: approximately 50 rupees per head. Tiger Safari is similarly available in a caged vehicle at approximately 50 rupees per head for a 30-minute ride.
Note: Tender for the Lion Safari Canteen and mini bus plying was cancelled for one period due to administrative reasons, so confirming safari availability before visiting by checking the official website at chhatbirzoo.gov.in is advisable.
Entry Fee Breakdown
Children below 3 years: Free. Children 3 to 12 years: 20 to 50 rupees. Adults above 12 years: 50 to 100 rupees. Elementary school students (group): approximately 10 to 20 rupees per student. High school students (group): approximately 20 to 30 rupees per student. Still photography: 500 rupees per day. Videography: 500 rupees per day. Battery-operated vehicle (BOV) for zoo tour: approximately 50 rupees per person per hour, with 6-seater (500 rupees) and 12-seater (1,000 rupees) options.
Personal vehicles are not allowed inside the zoo. Bicycles are permitted at approximately 10 rupees entry fee. Parking is available outside at approximately 10 rupees for two-wheelers and 20 rupees for four-wheelers.
Tickets: Online and Offline
Online ticket booking is available at chhatbirzoo.gov.in, where visitors can select date, ticket type, and additional facilities. Offline booking is also available at the zoo gate. Booking online in advance is recommended for weekends to avoid long queues.
How to Reach Chhatbir Zoo from Zirakpur
Chhatbir Zoo is approximately 7 kilometers from Zirakpur bus stand on the Chandigarh-Zirakpur-Patiala Highway (NH-7 corridor). From Zirakpur, take a bus or auto toward Patiala and get off at Chhatbir Zoo bus stand, which is directly in front of the zoo entrance.
Chandigarh International Airport is approximately 12 kilometers from the zoo. Our Zirakpur Distance Calculator provides travel time estimates from your location.
Visitor Tips
The best visiting time is early morning (opening at 9:00 AM) during summer to beat the heat. Monsoon and winter are also pleasant times. The recommended exploration time is 3 to 4 hours, extending to a half-day if you include the Dinosaur Park and both safaris. Carry water, wear comfortable walking shoes, and bring light snacks (food and canteen facilities are inside). Pets are not permitted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chhatbir Zoo timings from Zirakpur?
Chhatbir Zoo is open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays and national holidays (26 Jan, 15 Aug, 2 Oct).
What is the entry fee for Chhatbir Zoo?
Adults (above 12 years): 50 to 100 rupees. Children (3 to 12 years): 20 to 50 rupees. Children below 3 years: Free. School students in groups: 10 to 30 rupees depending on level.
How far is Chhatbir Zoo from Zirakpur?
Chhatbir Zoo is approximately 7 kilometers from Zirakpur bus stand via the Chandigarh-Patiala Highway.
Can I book Chhatbir Zoo tickets online?
Yes, online tickets are available at chhatbirzoo.gov.in. Online booking is recommended for weekends to avoid queues.
Is there a lion safari at Chhatbir Zoo?
Yes, there is a Lion Safari and a Tiger Safari, each costing approximately 50 rupees per person in a caged vehicle.
What animals are in Chhatbir Zoo near Zirakpur?
The zoo has 103 species and 1,241 animals including Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Bears, Deer, Gharials, and over 60 bird species in its walk-in aviary.
Final Thoughts
Chhatbir Zoo, Zirakpur’s nearest zoo 7 kilometers from the bus stand, is one of North India’s largest at 505 acres, with 103 species, a 300-metre walk-in aviary, Lion Safari, Tiger Safari, and Dinosaur Park. Entry is from 50 to 100 rupees, with online booking at chhatbirzoo.gov.in.
Use our Zirakpur Distance Calculator for travel time estimates. Explore our Zirakpur Guide section for more local attraction information.
