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Van Vihar National Park: Bhopal's Lakeside Wildlife Haven

Discover Bhopal's unique wildlife sanctuary: A blend of national park and zoological experience on the banks of the beautiful Upper Lake.

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Van Vihar National Park in Bhopal is a unique blend of a national park and a zoological park, offering a sanctuary for diverse wildlife along the banks of Upper Lake. Established in 1983, it provides a near-natural habitat for animals, rescued or exchanged from other zoos, making it a popular destination for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Van Vihar National Park Bhopal

  • 69J8+VHM, Lake View Walk Path, Bhopal, Krishna Nagar, Shymala Hills, Madhya Pradesh, 462002, IN
  • Visit website
  • Monday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • The best time to visit is between October and March for pleasant weather and migratory bird sightings.
  • Consider renting a bicycle or electric golf cart to explore the park's extensive grounds.
  • Bring a photo ID for verification purposes.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Bhopal Junction Railway Station, take a taxi to Van Vihar National Park. The ride is approximately 8 km and typically takes 10 minutes. Expect to pay around ₹180-₹230 for the trip.

  • Public Transport

    From areas around Bhopal, use the Bhopal City Bus service to reach Kilok Park, which is the nearest bus stop to Cheeku Dwar, one of the entry points to Van Vihar. From there, you will need to take a private vehicle like an auto-rickshaw to the park entrance as public transport doesn't directly reach the gate. Bus fare will range from ₹10 to ₹30. Auto-rickshaw fares may vary.

  • Walking

    If you are near Upper Lake, you can walk to Van Vihar National Park. It's located on the Lake View Walk Path, and you can enjoy the scenic views along the way. The walk from the center of Bhopal is approximately 6 km and takes a little over an hour.

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Discover more about Van Vihar National Park Bhopal

Van Vihar National Park, nestled beside Bhopal's scenic Upper Lake, is a distinctive conservation area that functions as both a national park and a modern zoological park. Established in 1983, it spans 4.45 square kilometers and offers a unique approach to wildlife preservation. Unlike traditional zoos, Van Vihar provides animals with expansive, near-natural habitats, creating an immersive experience for visitors. The park is home to a diverse array of fauna, including tigers, lions, leopards, bears, and a variety of reptiles and birds. Many animals are orphaned or have been brought from different regions, while others are exchanged with other zoos; no animals are deliberately captured from the wild. Herbivores roam freely, while carnivores are kept in enclosed areas for safety. Van Vihar also serves as a rescue and conservation breeding center for endangered species. Visitors can explore the park through walking trails, or by renting bicycles or electric golf carts. Safari rides are available, offering a closer look at the park's internal areas. Van Vihar's location adjacent to Upper Lake enhances its beauty and provides opportunities for bird watching, with numerous migratory species flocking to the area. The park is open six days a week, remaining closed on Fridays.

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