Velavadar National Park is the home to enormous population of Black Buck, Antelope, Wolf and some of the endangered species of birds.

Velavadar National Park classified as 4B Gujarat-Rajwada biotic province, is a semi-arid bio-geographical zone, located 72 km away from Bhavnagar, Gujarat. The park with its unique ecosystem is the home to Blackbuck, the Wolf and the Lesser Florican, in addition to migratory birds and several avian species. Tour to Velavadar National Park is worth a trip for Jungle safari enthusiasts. 

History of Velavadar National Park

Velavadar National Park, often referred as Blackbuck National Park established in 1976 in the Bhal region of Saurashtra, Guajrat, carries rich history pre independence, when the region was a part of the princely state of Bhavnagar.

In 1966, the blackbuck population swiftly decreased to 200, and it was then the 38.04 sq. km was under the Wildlife Protection Act was converted into a sanctuary. The tropical grassland aided India to attain the status of a national park.

Tourism in Velavador National Park

The semi-arid, flat grassland with inundation of seawater during monsoon; creates suitable habitats for varied flora and fauna of the Park. The ecosystem segregated into four distinct types - grassland, shrub-land, saline land and high tidal lands houses several species of wild life and vegetation. Amongst the thrilling sights in the area is the mating rituals of the blackbuck, you can watch a male performing a spectacular vertical leap of up to 2 m.

Velavadar National Park accommodates over 187 species of birds including residents and migratory birds like Partridge, Duck, Harrier, Pelican, Crane, Sand Grouse, Stork, Lark, Eagle and Lesser Florican.

Other species of wild animals include Nilgai, Wild Cat,Wolf, Indian Fox, Wild Boar, Jackal,, Rodent, Porcupine and Hare.

The reptilian kingdom involves Common Cobra, Rat Snake, Saw Scaled Vipers, Krait and Sand Boa.

Enjoy a jungle safari in your own vehicle along the straight trail with watchtowers dotted around it. Be cautious when enjoying the ride, as animals can cross your path any time; therefore drive slowly and safely.  Avoid wearing flashy colours and strong smelling perfumes.  Alternatively, the wetland located 3 km from the entry gate is an ideal spot to enjoy the wildlife.

Velvadhar National Park offers an excellent opportunity to wild life photographers. A walk around the park will offer your rewarding chances of clicking large herds of black bucks, flocks of birds and spotting the particularly endangered Lesser Florican and other avian inhabitants. Even though you can visit park round the year, yet the recommended season is December to March as many species of migratory birds arrive to spend winter.

To reach this popular tourist destination there are two gates with a road in between, leading to the park. Pay the entry fee at the reception attached to the Kaliyarbhavan Forest Lodge. Located at a short distance, the park interpretation centre provides you the crucial knowledge about the birds and animals found in the area. 

The visiting hours of the Park are 6:30 - 8:30 AM & 4:30 - 6:30 PM. Park charges includes entry fee: $5, vehicle entry: $10, guide fee: $2, still camera: $5 and video camera: $ 200   

The food provided at the forest lodge is Indian thali - dal, rice and chappatis.