🌿Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park, Bankhandi Himachal Pradesh
🌍 Introduction
Nestled in the scenic Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park in Bankhandi is all set to become India’s first IGBC-certified eco-zoo ✅. Spread across lush landscapes, this zoological park will be a sustainable model of wildlife conservation 🐾, eco-tourism, and learning.
📜 History & Development
The park is not just about animals; it’s a vision for the future of eco-tourism in India.
- 🗓 2024 Announcement: CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu declared it as India’s first IGBC-certified zoo.
- 💰 Phase I (₹230 crore): 25 hectares, 34 enclosures, 73 species.
- 🌳 Full Project (₹619 crore): Spanning 233 hectares with monorail safaris 🚝, eco-adventures, Kangra village replica 🏡, and a 1 MW solar plant ☀️.
- ⏳ Timeline: First phase expected between 2025–2026.
🦁 Wildlife & Attractions
- 🐅 Animal Enclosures: Asiatic lion, hog deer, crocodiles 🐊, gharials, monitor lizard, and exotic birds.
- 🌌 Nocturnal House: See rare night creatures.
- 🐦 Wetland Aviary: Experience native birds in their natural habitat.
- 🎢 Eco-Tourism Zones: Boating 🚣, rock climbing 🧗, adventure trails.
- 🏡 Cultural Vibe: Replica of a traditional Kangra village at the entrance.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
- October – March: Cool, pleasant weather 🌸.
- Summers: Morning and evening visits recommended.
- Monsoon: Lush greenery 🌿 but with rainy interruptions.
🛣 How to Reach Bankhandi
- 🚗 By Road: Well-connected to Kangra, Dharamshala & Pathankot.
- 🚉 By Train: Pathankot & Amb Andaura are the nearest stations.
- ✈️ By Air: Gaggal Airport (Kangra) is the closest.
🏞 Nearby Attractions in Kangra
Make your trip more exciting by visiting these gems near Bankhandi:
- 🛕 Mata Bajreshwari Devi Temple: A Shakti Peeth filled with divine energy.
- 🏰 Kangra Fort: Ancient fort with stunning views of the valley.
- 🦢 Maharana Pratap Sagar (Pong Lake): Birdwatching paradise & boating spot.
- 🙏 Chamunda Devi Temple: Spiritual retreat by the Baner River.
- 🎨 Andretta Artists’ Village: Hub for pottery and art lovers.
- 🏔 Dharamshala & McLeodganj: Known for Tibetan monasteries and the Dalai Lama’s residence.
💡 Visitor Tips
✔ Carry water & snacks 🥤.
✔ Wear comfortable shoes 👟.
✔ Visit early morning for a calm experience 🌄.
✔ Respect rules – this is a conservation space 🌱.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park, Bankhandi is not just a zoo — it’s a landmark of eco-tourism 🌿, wildlife conservation 🐾, and cultural pride for Himachal Pradesh. With its sustainable design, thrilling wildlife enclosures, and nearby attractions, it promises a memorable journey for families, nature lovers, and explorers alike.
So, when you plan your Himachal trip, make sure to include this green marvel of Kangra 🏞 in your travel list.
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