Vansda National Park is a hidden gem located in the Navsari district of Gujarat, India. This beautiful park covers an area of 24.42 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Established in 1979, the park is surrounded by lush green forests and offers visitors a peaceful retreat into nature.
The park is situated in the Sahyadri Range of Western Ghats and is known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and picturesque landscapes. It is located approximately 80 kilometers from the city of Surat and can be easily reached by road.
The park is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day of the week.
The entry fee for Vansda National Park is INR 40 for Indian adults and INR 100 for foreign nationals. Children below the age of 5 can enter for free.
The park is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species including teak, bamboo, lions, leopards, striped hyenas, barking deer, four-horned antelopes, and many more. Birdwatchers will also enjoy spotting species like paradise flycatchers, great hornbills, and Malabar pied hornbills.
Visitors to Vansda National Park can enjoy activities such as nature walks, bird watching, and wildlife photography. The park also offers jeep safaris for a closer look at the flora and fauna.
The charges for a jeep safari in Vansda National Park are INR 300 per person. The safari lasts for approximately one hour and provides visitors with a thrilling wildlife experience.
The entry fee for male visitors above the age of 12 is INR 40, while female visitors of all ages can enter for the same fee. Children between the ages of 6 to 12 are charged INR 20 for entry.
Senior citizens above the age of 60 can avail a 50% discount on the entry fee to Vansda National Park. The park also offers wheelchair accessibility and special facilities for elderly visitors.
The best time to visit Vansda National Park is during the months of October to March when the weather is pleasant and the flora and fauna are in full bloom. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season as the park can get slippery and difficult to navigate.
While in Navsari, visitors can explore nearby attractions such as the Unai Hot Springs, Dandi Beach, and Wilson Hill. These places offer a mix of natural beauty and historical significance.
Vansda National Park has ample parking space available for visitors who wish to bring their vehicles. The parking facility is safe and secure, allowing visitors to explore the park without any worries.
Visitors to Vansda National Park are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and maintain the ecological balance of the park. Some of the rules include not littering, not feeding the animals, and not disturbing the natural habitat in any way.
Vansda National Park is well-connected by road and can be easily reached from major cities like Surat and Mumbai. The nearest airport is in Surat, approximately 120 kilometers away, and the nearest railway station is in Navsari, around 45 kilometers from the park. Visitors can also opt for private taxis or buses to reach the park from nearby towns.
Overall, Vansda National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature up close and witness the diverse wildlife of the region. With its serene surroundings and abundance of flora and fauna, it is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.