About Maitri Bagh Zoo and Garden
Maitri Bagh Zoo and Garden is a large zoo-cum-public park in Maroda, Bhilai, Durg District, Chhattisgarh, maintained by the Bhilai Steel Plant (SAIL). Established in 1972 as a symbol of Indo-Soviet friendship, it combines a zoological park, landscaped gardens, an artificial lake and recreational facilities. It is the largest zoo in Chhattisgarh and a popular family destination offering wildlife viewing, boating, toy train rides and musical fountain shows.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore a landscaped garden with flower beds and lawns, a zoological park housing tigers, lions, leopards, bears, deer, hippopotamus and birds, an artificial lake with boating, a toy train circuit around the park, a musical fountain, an aquarium and children's play areas. The setting is flat and open with paved pathways, shaded seating, and enclosures separated by barricades and moats for viewing animals.
Key highlights
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Largest zoo in Chhattisgarh with diverse mammals and birds
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Artificial lake with paddle boating facility
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Toy train ride circling the garden and zoo area
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Musical fountain and light show in the evening
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Landscaped flower gardens and spacious picnic lawns
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Aquarium and children's play area
History of Maitri Bagh Zoo and Garden
Established in 1972 by Bhilai Steel Plant (SAIL) as a symbol of Indo-Soviet friendship; 'Maitri' means friendship in Hindi. Developed with cooperation of Soviet collaborators associated with the construction of Bhilai Steel Plant, it was created as a recreational and educational facility for employees and residents and has grown into the largest zoo in Chhattisgarh.
Culture & Context
Serves as a symbol of India-Soviet friendship and as a major recreational, educational and family leisure centre for the industrial township of Bhilai, hosting picnics, school visits and nature awareness for local communities.
Route
| By air |
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