Are you looking for a unique and memorable wildlife experience in India? Do you want to witness the majestic animals and birds in their natural habitats, while also learning about their conservation and care? If yes, then you should definitely visit Van Vihar National Park, a one-of-a-kind national park and zoological space in the heart of Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh.
Van Vihar National Park is not your typical zoo, where the animals are confined in cages and enclosures. Instead, it is an open zoological park, where the animals are free to roam in large areas that resemble their natural habitats. The park is spread over an area of 4.45 sq km, and is home to more than 200 species of animals, birds, reptiles, insects, and plants. The park is also a rescue centre and a conservation breeding centre for many endangered and threatened species, such as the white tiger, the sloth bear, the hyena, and the gharial.
Van Vihar National Park is a perfect destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families. You can enjoy a thrilling safari ride, watch the colourful and exotic birds, participate in a nature camp, adopt an animal, or watch a documentary on the park and its wildlife. You can also visit the nearby Upper Lake, the largest artificial lake in Asia, and enjoy the scenic views and the cool breeze.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Van Vihar National Park, including its flora and fauna, attractions and activities, how to reach, and more. Read on to discover why Van Vihar National Park is a wildlife wonderland in the heart of Bhopal.
Flora and Fauna
One of the main attractions of Van Vihar National Park is its rich and diverse flora and fauna. The park boasts of a variety of animals, birds, reptiles, insects, and plants, that will leave you spellbound and amazed.
Animals
The park has more than 60 species of animals, including carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores. Some of the most popular animals are:
Tiger: The park has 12 tigers, including two white tigers, which are a rare and endangered species. The tigers are kept in large wire enclosures, where they can move freely and comfortably. You can watch them from a safe distance, and admire their beauty and power.
Lion: The park has four lions, which are also kept in wire enclosures. The lions are the kings of the jungle, and you can witness their majestic presence and roar.
Panther: The park has six panthers, which are also known as leopards. The panthers are sleek and agile, and can climb trees and rocks with ease. They are also very elusive, and you may have to be patient and lucky to spot them.
Bear: The park has 12 bears, including six sloth bears, which are a vulnerable and threatened species. The sloth bears are rescued from the cruel practice of bear dancing, and are given a new life at the park. The bears are very playful and friendly, and you can see them enjoying their honey and fruits.
Hyena: The park has four hyenas, which are a conservation breeding centre for this species. The hyenas are often misunderstood and feared, but they are actually very intelligent and social animals. You can hear their distinctive laughter and howl, which are used for communication and coordination.
Cheetal: The park has more than 200 cheetals, which are a type of deer. The cheetals are herbivores, and are free to roam in the park. You can see them grazing on the grass, or running in groups. They are very graceful and elegant, and have beautiful spotted coats.
Blackbuck: The park has more than 50 blackbucks, which are another type of deer. The blackbucks are also herbivores, and are free to roam in the park. You can see them jumping and sprinting, or resting under the shade. They are very attractive and charming, and have long spiral horns.
These are just some of the animals that you can see at Van Vihar National Park. There are many more, such as the neelgai, the sambar, the chinkara, the wild boar, the porcupine, the jackal, the fox, the mongoose, the hare, and the monkey.
Birds
The park has more than 60 species of birds, including resident and migratory birds. Some of the most popular birds are:
Kingfisher: The park has several kingfishers, which are a type of water bird. The kingfishers are very colourful and vibrant, and have a long and pointed beak. You can see them diving into the water, or perching on the branches. They are very cheerful and lively, and have a loud and musical call.
Bulbul: The park has several bulbuls, which are a type of songbird. The bulbuls are very cute and fluffy, and have a crest on their head. You can see them hopping on the ground, or flying in the air. They are very vocal and melodious, and have a varied and complex song.
Wagtail: The park has several wagtails, which are a type of passerine bird. The wagtails are very small and slender, and have a long and wagging tail. You can see them walking on the water, or flitting in the grass. They are very active and energetic, and have a sweet and chirpy call.
Migratory Species: The park also attracts many migratory birds, especially during the winter season. Some of the migratory birds that you can see are the bar-headed goose, the ruddy shelduck, the pintail, the common teal, the gadwall, the shoveler, the coot, the greylag goose, and the flamingo.
These are just some of the birds that you can see at Van Vihar National Park. There are many more, such as the peacock, the parrot, the owl, the eagle, the kite, the vulture, the stork, the crane, the heron, the egret, the duck, the cormorant, and the pelican.
Reptiles
The park has more than 30 species of reptiles, including snakes, crocodiles, and tortoises. Some of the most popular reptiles are:
Cobra: The park has several cobras, which are a type of venomous snake. The cobras are very dangerous and deadly, and can raise their hood and spit venom. You can see them slithering on the ground, or coiling in the baskets. They are very fascinating and mysterious, and have a hissing and growling sound.
Russel Viper: The park has several Russel vipers, which are another type of venomous snake. The Russel vipers are very aggressive and fierce, and can strike with great speed and force. You can see them crawling on the rocks, or hiding in the holes. They are very striking and impressive, and have a rattling and sizzling sound.
Python: The park has several pythons, which are a type of non-venomous snake. The pythons are very large and powerful, and can constrict and suffocate their prey. You can see them lying on the trees, or wrapping around the branches. They are very captivating and majestic, and have a silent and stealthy mode.
Crocodile: The park has several crocodiles, which are a type of reptile. The crocodiles are very ancient and primitive, and can live both on land and water. You can see them basking on the banks, or swimming in the ponds. They are very fearsome and formidable, and have a snapping and roaring sound.
Tortoise: The park has several tortoises, which are another type of reptile. The tortoises are very slow and steady, and have a hard and protective shell. You can see them walking on the grass, or resting in the shade. They are very adorable and endearing, and have a grunting and squeaking sound.
These are just some of the reptiles that you can see at Van Vihar National Park. There are many more, such as the monitor lizard, the chameleon, the gecko, the skink, the turtle, and the gharial.
Insects and Plants
The park also has a rich and diverse collection of insects and plants, that add to the beauty and diversity of the park. Some of the insects and plants that you can see are:
Butterflies: The park has a butterfly park, where you can see hundreds of butterflies, of different colours, shapes, and sizes. The butterflies are very delicate and graceful, and can flutter and fly with ease. You can see them feeding on the flowers, or resting on the leaves. They are very enchanting and charming, and have a magical and fairy-like aura.
Insects: The park also has many other insects, such as the dragonfly, the damselfly, the beetle, the ant, the bee, the wasp, the hornet, the grasshopper, the cricket, the mantis, the moth, the spider, the scorpion, and the centipede. The insects are very small and diverse, and have different roles and functions in the ecosystem. You can see them crawling on the ground, or flying in the air. They are very intriguing and amazing, and have a variety of shapes, colours, and patterns.
Plants: The park also has a variety of plants, such as the banyan, the peepal, the neem, the mango, the jamun, the tamarind, the bamboo, the teak, the sal, the kachnar, the gulmohar, the amaltas, the palash, the bougainvillea, and the hibiscus. The plants are very important and essential, as they provide food, shelter, oxygen, and beauty to the park. You can see them growing on the soil, or hanging on the trees. They are very soothing and refreshing, and have a range of textures, fragrances, and flowers.
These are just some of the insects and plants that you can see at Van Vihar National Park. There are many more, and you can explore them at your own pace and interest.
Attractions and Activities
Another main attraction of Van Vihar National Park is its attractions and activities. The park offers a lot of fun and exciting things to do and see, that will make your visit worthwhile and memorable.
Safari Ride
One of the most popular and thrilling activities at the park is the safari ride. You can hop on a battery-operated vehicle, or a toy train, and enjoy a guided tour of the park. You can see the animals and birds up close, and learn about their habits and behaviours. You can also take pictures and videos, and capture the moments. The safari ride is a great way to experience the wildlife, and feel the adrenaline rush.
Bird Watching
Another popular and relaxing activity at the park is the bird watching. You can walk along the trails, or sit on the benches, and watch the colourful and exotic birds. You can listen to their songs and calls, and identify their names and features. You can also use binoculars, or a camera, and zoom in on the details. The bird watching is a great way to enjoy the nature, and feel the peace and calm.
Nature Camp
Another popular and educational activity at the park is the nature camp. You can join a group of students, teachers, or enthusiasts, and spend a night at the park. You can pitch a tent, light a bonfire, cook a meal, and share stories. You can also participate in various activities, such as games, quizzes, workshops, and presentations. You can also observe the nocturnal animals, and listen to their sounds. The nature camp is a great way to learn about the wildlife, and feel the adventure and fun.
Animal Adoption Scheme
Another popular and noble activity at the park is the animal adoption scheme. You can adopt an animal of your choice, and contribute to its care and welfare. You can pay a nominal fee, and receive a certificate, a photograph, and a report of your adopted animal. You can also visit your adopted animal, and interact with it. You can also name your adopted animal, and share your bond with it. The animal adoption scheme is a great way to support the wildlife, and feel the love and compassion.
Documentary
Another popular and informative activity at the park is the documentary. You can watch a short film, that showcases the park and its wildlife. You can learn about the history, the vision, the mission, and the achievements of the park. You can also see the behind-the-scenes, and the challenges and the solutions of the park. You can also appreciate the efforts and the dedication of the staff and the volunteers of the park. The documentary is a great way to understand the wildlife, and feel the inspiration and motivation.
These are just some of the attractions and activities that you can enjoy at Van Vihar National Park. There are many more, and you can discover them at your own time and preference.
How to Reach
One of the main questions that you may have about Van Vihar National Park is how to reach it. The park is located in the Shymala Hills area of Bhopal, and is easily accessible by various modes of transport. Here are some of the details of how to reach the park from different sources:
By Air
The nearest airport to the park is the Raja Bhoj Airport, which is about 15 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, etc. You can take a flight to the airport, and then hire a taxi, an auto-rickshaw, or a bus to reach the park. The journey will take about 30 minutes, and will cost around Rs. 300-400.
By Train
The nearest railway station to the park is the Bhopal Junction, which is about 6 km away. The railway station is well-connected to other parts of India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, etc. You can take a train to the station, and then hire a taxi, an auto-rickshaw, or a bus to reach the park. The journey will take about 15 minutes, and will cost around Rs. 100-200.
By Road
The park is also well-connected by road, and you can drive or take a bus to reach it. The park is situated on the Lake View Road, which is a part of the National Highway 12. The road is smooth and scenic, and passes through the Upper Lake, also known as the Bada Taalab. You can enjoy the views of the lake and the hills, as you drive or ride to the park. The park has a parking facility, where you can park your vehicle for a nominal fee.
By Local Transport
The park is also easily reachable by local transport, such as the city bus, the mini bus, the tempo, or the cycle rickshaw. You can find these vehicles at various points in the city, such as the bus stand, the railway station, the airport, the market, etc. You can board any of these vehicles, and ask the driver or the conductor to drop you at the park. The fare will vary depending on the distance and the type of vehicle, but it will be very cheap and affordable.
These are some of the ways of how to reach Van Vihar National Park. You can choose any of these modes of transport, according to your convenience and budget. The park is open from 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, except on Fridays, when it is closed. The best time to visit the park is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the migratory birds are present. The entry fee for the park is Rs. 15 for adults, Rs. 5 for children, and Rs. 50 for foreigners. The safari ride fee is Rs. 50 for adults, Rs. 25 for children, and Rs. 100 for foreigners. The nature camp fee is Rs. 500 for adults, and Rs. 250 for children. The animal adoption scheme fee varies depending on the animal and the duration.
Conclusion
Van Vihar National Park is a wildlife wonderland in the heart of Bhopal, that offers a unique and memorable experience to the visitors. You can see a variety of animals, birds, reptiles, insects, and plants, in their natural habitats, and learn about their conservation and care. You can also enjoy various attractions and activities, such as the safari ride, the bird watching, the nature camp, the animal adoption scheme, and the documentary. You can also visit the nearby Upper Lake, and enjoy the scenic views and the cool breeze.
If you are looking for a fun and exciting way to spend your day, or a weekend, or a vacation, then you should definitely visit Van Vihar National Park. You will not only have a great time, but also gain a lot of knowledge and awareness about the wildlife and the environment. You will also support the noble cause of the park, and help in preserving and protecting the wildlife for the future generations.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Van Vihar National Park, and experience the wildlife wonderland in the heart of Bhopal. You will surely have a blast, and create some unforgettable memories.
