Van Vihar is a national park and a zoological space that operates under the guidelines of the Central Zoo Authority. It is located just adjacent to the Upper Lake in Bhopal, near Shymala Hills. The park showcases the diversity and unity of Indian wildlife and nature, and offers a unique and interactive experience of learning and exploring the various aspects of animal life and ecology. Visit during One Day Bhopal Local Sightseeing Trip By Cab
Overview of Van Vihar
Van Vihar was established in 1979 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, with the aim of creating a park that would conserve and protect the wildlife and the environment. The park covers an area of about 4.45 km 2, and has a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The park has more than 400 animals of 60 different species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Best 10 Places To Visit in Indore
The animals are kept closest to their natural habitats, in large enclosures that resemble their original ecosystems. The park also has a lake, a wetland, a butterfly park, a snake interpretation center, a bird interpretation center, and a wild cafe. The park also hosts various events and programs, such as exhibitions, seminars, workshops, and cultural performances, to spread the awareness and appreciation of wildlife and nature.
Location of Van Vihar
Van Vihar is located on the Shymala Hills, near the Upper Lake, in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India. The park is about 8 km from the Bhopal Railway Station and 15 km from the Raja Bhoj Airport. The park is easily accessible by public transport, such as buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws.
Timing/Entry Fees Van Vihar
Van Vihar is open to the public from 11:00 am to 6:30 pm, from Tuesday to Sunday. The park is closed on Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee for the park is Rs. 10 for Indian visitors and Rs. 100 for foreign visitors. There is no entry fee for children below 12 years, students, and senior citizens. There is an additional fee of Rs. 50 for photography and Rs. 100 for videography. The park also offers guided tours and audio guides for a nominal charge.
How to Reach Van Vihar
Van Vihar can be reached by various modes of transport from different parts of Bhopal. Some of the options are:
- By Bus: There are several buses that ply to Van Vihar from various bus stops in Bhopal. The nearest bus stop to the park is the Shymala Hills Bus Stop, which is about 500 meters away. Some of the bus routes that pass through this stop are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10[^1^][1].
- By Taxi: Taxis are another convenient way to reach Van Vihar from anywhere in Bhopal. The fare depends on the distance and the traffic conditions, but it usually ranges from Rs. 100 to Rs. 300. One can also book a taxi online or through a mobile app, such as Ola, Uber, or Meru[^2^][2].
- By Auto-Rickshaw: Auto-rickshaws are the most common and affordable mode of transport in Bhopal. They can be hailed from any street corner or stand, and they charge according to the meter or by bargaining. The average fare to Van Vihar from the railway station or the airport is around Rs. 50 to Rs. 100[^3^][3].
Things to Do Van Vihar
Van Vihar is a place where one can experience the history and culture of Indian wildlife and nature. There are many things to do and see in and around the park, such as:
- Explore the park and admire its architecture, design, and decor. See the various animals and birds, and learn about their history and significance. Marvel at the diversity and unity of Indian wildlife and nature, and the achievements and challenges of wildlife conservation and management.
- Enjoy the lake and the wetland. Take a boat ride in the lake, which is home to many aquatic animals and plants. Watch the migratory birds that visit the wetland, which is a habitat for many endangered and threatened species. Relax in the lawns and gaze at the fountains and ponds. Watch the butterflies and insects that inhabit the butterfly park, which has more than 50 species of butterflies.
- Visit the snake interpretation center and the bird interpretation center. The snake interpretation center has a collection of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodiles, and provides information and education on their biology, behavior, and conservation. The bird interpretation center has a collection of birds, such as parrots, peacocks, owls, and eagles, and provides information and education on their ecology, diversity, and importance.
- Experience the events and activities. The park hosts various events and activities throughout the year, such as exhibitions, seminars, workshops, and cultural performances, to promote the awareness and appreciation of wildlife and nature. The park also organizes special programs for children, such as quiz, painting, essay, and speech competitions, and educational tours.
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Significance of Van Vihar
Van Vihar is not only a tourist attraction, but also a symbol of the heritage and identity of India. The park represents the vision and mission of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, which is to conserve and protect the wildlife and the environment. The park also reflects the cultural diversity and harmony of India, which has been influenced by various regions and religions over the centuries. The park is a source of pride and inspiration for the people of India, who cherish and preserve its beauty and value.
FAQ’s
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Van Vihar:
Q: When was Van Vihar established?
A: Van Vihar was established in 1979 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, with the aim of creating a park that would conserve and protect the wildlife and the environment.
Q: What is the difference between a national park and a zoo?
A: A national park is a protected area that is designated for the conservation of wildlife and natural resources, and is regulated by the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. A zoo is a facility that displays animals for public education and recreation, and is regulated by the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009.
Q: What is the style of Van Vihar?
A: Van Vihar is built in a modern and eco-friendly style, with a blend of Indian and Western architecture. The park has a white and green color scheme, which symbolizes peace and nature.
Q: What are the main attractions of Van Vihar?
A: The main attractions of Van Vihar are its animals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, its lake and wetland, its butterfly park, its snake interpretation center, and its bird interpretation center.
Q: What is the timing and entry fee of Van Vihar?
A: Van Vihar is open to the public from 11:00 am to 6:30 pm, from Tuesday to Sunday. The park is closed on Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee for the park is Rs. 10 for Indian visitors and Rs. 100 for foreign visitors. There is no entry fee for children below 12 years, students, and senior citizens. There is an additional fee of Rs. 50 for photography and Rs. 100 for videography.
Conclusion
Van Vihar is a must-see destination for anyone who visits Bhopal. It is a place where one can witness the history and culture of Indian wildlife and nature. It is a place where one can learn about the vision and mission of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India, and its contribution to wildlife and nature conservation and protection. It is a place where one can enjoy the natural and artistic beauty of the park and its surroundings. It is a place where one can experience the events and activities of the park and the city. Van Vihar is a place that offers something for everyone, and leaves a lasting impression on the visitors.
