Bhubaneswar(OT Webdesk): Following an overwhelming surge of visitors during the Raja Festival, the Nandankanan Zoological Park and the adjoining State Botanical Garden have been closed today, June 17, to facilitate essential maintenance and provide relief to staff.
The park, which typically observes a weekly closure on Mondays, remained open on June 16 to accommodate festivalgoers on the final day of Raja.
As a result, a record-breaking 78,322 visitors thronged the twin attractions over three festive days, with 18,134 guests at the zoo and 1,274 at the botanical garden on the concluding day alone.
Deputy Director Sanath Kumar Narayan confirmed the decision to shift the closure to Tuesday this week, citing the need for upkeep and recovery after the intense footfall.
Authorities have urged citizens to plan their visits accordingly and check schedules in advance, especially during holidays and festivals, when the tourist footfall spikes significantly.
As one of Odisha’s premier destinations for eco-tourism, Nandankanan continues to draw massive crowds, and the administration hopes this temporary closure will ensure a better experience for future visitors.
