Van Vihar National Park: Bhopal's Wildlife Oasis

Van Vihar National Park, nestled beside Bhopal's Upper Lake, is a unique protected area blending the characteristics of a national park and a modern zoological park. Established in 1979 and officially declared a national park in 1983, it spans 4.45 square kilometers. Van Vihar serves as a green lung for Bhopal, offering a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. Unlike traditional national parks, Van Vihar operates with the guidelines of the Central Zoo Authority, housing animals in environments that mimic their natural habitats. Most animals are either orphaned, rescued from various regions of Madhya Pradesh, or exchanged with other zoos; no animals are deliberately captured from the wild. The park is divided into two main sections: one for carnivores, which are kept in enclosures for safety, and another for herbivores, which roam freely within the park. Visitors can observe a variety of animals, including tigers, lions, panthers, bears, hyenas, and various species of deer such as sambar, spotted deer (cheetal), blackbuck, and blue bulls (nilgai). The park is also home to a diverse range of birds, with over 200 species identified, including migratory birds that visit during the winter months. Reptiles and amphibians, such as crocodiles, gharials, turtles, and snakes, can also be spotted within the park. Van Vihar's landscape includes the Upper Lake, which adds to the scenic beauty and provides a habitat for water birds. The park's management focuses on protecting wildlife and improving the habitat, making it a successful example of biodiversity improvement on previously depleted land. Visitors can explore the park through walking trails, safari rides, or by renting bicycles or electric golf carts.