The Maa Mundeshwari Wildlife Eco Park by Rurban Design Lab is a fusion of architecture, ecology, and cultural heritage
Tucked amidst the serene landscape of Bihar’s Kaimur district, the Maa Mundeshwari Wildlife Eco Park shines as a symbol of sustainable design and cultural preservation. Conceptualised and designed by architect Angad Singh Phokela of Rurban Design Lab (Iconographic Designs Pvt. Ltd.), this 14-acre eco-park is an extraordinary example of architecture that complements with nature while rejoicing heritage and community engagement. The park translates to approximately 609,840 sq. ft. of meticulously designed spaces. These include landscaped trails, themed installations, amphitheaters, water bodies, and shaded rest areas, all designed to maximize functionality while preserving the natural terrain.
The firm is renowned for its unique design philosophy that harmonizes cultural narratives, ecological principles, and modern architecture. For this project, Rurban Design Lab has utilized their expertise to create a space that celebrates Bihar’s rich cultural heritage while promoting eco-tourism. Their approach combines research, local craftsmanship, and innovative technologies to craft an immersive and educational experience. Sharing more insights about the project, Angad says, “The park is named after the historic Maa Mundeshwari Temple, located in the Kaimur district of Bihar. This temple, believed to be one of the oldest functional temples in India, holds significant historical, cultural, and spiritual value. By naming the park after this iconic site, the project honors the temple’s legacy while creating a space that resonates with the local community’s identity. The design incorporates traditional motifs and elements that pay homage to the temple’s architecture, creating a spiritual and cultural connection for visitors.”
The design process for the Maa Mundeshwari Wildlife Eco Park was highly research-driven and collaborative. The project began with a detailed site analysis to understand the topography, natural contours, and biodiversity of the area. The design approach emphasized “building with the land,” minimizing environmental disruption while enhancing the natural beauty of the Kaimur hills. Angad informs, “Locally sourced materials like bamboo, fly ash, and natural stone were chosen for sustainability. Indigenous plants were used to promote biodiversity, with automated irrigation systems for water efficiency. The park incorporates solarpowered lighting, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient solutions to adhere to green norms.”
A grand rocky arch, adorned with sculptures of native wildlife and intricate tree motifs, welcomes visitors into this eco-conscious sanctuary. The secondary gate, featuring vintage green lamp posts and wood grain patterns, further reinforces the park’s commitment to blending natural elements with architectural design. The team worked with artisans and designers to create Navarasa-themed sculptural trees, life-sized animal installations, and vibrant gateways that engage visitors visually and emotionally. “One of the park’s most striking installations, the Animal Parade, features life-sized sculptures of rhinoceroses, lions, giraffes, and even a dinosaur playfully perched on a long cycle. This dynamic artistic display captivates children and adults alike while subtly educating visitors about wildlife conservation,” adds, Angad. As visitors walk under the vibrant Rainbow Pergolas, they are enveloped in a spectrum of colours symbolising unity and diversity—an artistic and philosophical representation of nature’s inclusive spirit. Another architectural highlight of the park is the Bamboo and Metal Foot Over Bridge, a structure that merges traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering. “Utilising bamboo’s tensile strength and metal’s durability, the bridge eschews industrial fasteners in favour of traditional rope bindings, reinforcing the park’s ethos of sustainability,” informs Angad.
At the heart of the park lies the Buddha Sarovar, a tranquil water body that restores the area’s natural hydrology while providing a cooling microclimate. Artificial waterfalls and restored ponds enhance both the aesthetic and ecological value of the space. The Trees of Emotion installation is another immersive feature, with nine intricately carved sculptures representing the Navarasa—the nine fundamental emotions in Indian art. These artistic elements interact with living trees, offering visitors a contemplative dialogue between culture and nature. “Drawing inspiration from the Maa Mundeshwari Temple, India’s oldest living temple, the park’s sculptural elements and motifs pay homage to the region’s spiritual heritage. These artistic flourishes bridge the past and present, reinforcing the deep connection between culture and the environment,” adds, Angad.
At the center of the park lies an open-air amphitheater, designed to host cultural performances, educational programs, and community gatherings. Built with locally sourced stone and boulders, this 300-400-seat venue integrates seamlessly with the natural surroundings, using vegetation as a natural sound buffer for enhanced acoustics. From rainwater harvesting systems to solar-powered lighting, the park embodies an unwavering commitment to sustainability. Locally sourced bamboo, stone, and wood ensure minimal carbon footprint, while the park’s energy-efficient design integrates renewable energy sources and low-impact construction techniques. Solarpowered irrigation and lighting systems significantly reduce reliance on non-renewable energy, while waste management initiatives, including composting and segregated waste disposal, further reinforce the park’s eco-conscious approach. Additionally, native plant landscaping enhances biodiversity and helps maintain ecological equilibrium, ensuring that the park remains a thriving natural habitat.
Elaborating on the primary challenges the team faced during the design process, Angad says, “One of the primary challenges faced during the project was the integration of contemporary structural requirements with traditional craftsmanship. The park’s commitment to sustainability meant replacing industrial fasteners with handcrafted rope bindings—a meticulous process that required collaboration with local artisans and engineers. Additionally, the fluctuating terrain of the Kaimur hills necessitated adaptive planning to ensure minimal disruption to the existing landscape.” Through extensive research, iterative prototyping, and site-sensitive design strategies, these challenges were transformed into opportunities, resulting in a park that feels both deeply rooted in its context and forward-thinking in its execution.
Unlike conventional parks, the Maa Mundeshwari Wildlife Eco Park offers an emotionally engaging experience through elements like the Navarasainspired trees and vibrant installations. The design prioritizes environmental conservation while creating spaces that educate, entertain, and inspire visitors. The park is a living, breathing ecosystem that exemplifies how thoughtful architecture can elevate conservation efforts while fostering cultural and community engagement. The park demonstrates that with careful planning and innovative design, it’s possible to create spaces that not only preserve our natural heritage but also enrich it through thoughtful human interaction.
Fact Sheet:
Location: Bihar
Size: 14 Acre
Architect Name: Ar Angad Singh Phokela
Firm Name: Rurban Design Lab (Iconographic Designs Pvt Ltd)
Photo Credit: Rurban Design Lab
