Home | INFORMATION | Tiger Reserves | Other National Parks | Wildlife Sanctuaries | Bird Sanctuaries | Elephant Reserves | Endangered Species
Introduction
Van Vihar National Park in Madhya Pradesh is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Bhopal district, Van Vihar National Park is an open zoo and national park located directly on the shores of Bhopal’s Upper Lake in the state capital.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Madhya Pradesh |
| Districts | Bhopal |
| Year of Notification | 1979 |
| Total Area | 4.45 sq km |
| Landscape | Open safari enclosures, deciduous forest hillside, and lake shoreline. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Bhopal Upper Lake (Bada Talao – Ramsar Site) |
| Nearest Airport | Raja Bhoj International Airport Bhopal (BHO) – 12 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Bhopal Junction (BPL) – 8 km / Rani Kamlapati Station – 10 km |
| Best Time to Visit | Round the year (October to March best) |
Location
The national park lies in the Bhopal region of Madhya Pradesh. In central Bhopal near Lake View Drive.
History
Notified as a National Park in 1979; operated under Central Zoo Authority guidelines.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 4.45 sq km, the park’s terrain features Open safari enclosures, deciduous forest hillside, and lake shoreline.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Open safari enclosures, deciduous forest hillside, and lake shoreline.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, White Tiger (rescue enclosure), Lion, Chital, Sambar, Blackbuck, Blue Bull, Gharial, and Marsh Crocodile.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Over 200 bird species. Key species include Sarus Crane, Painted Stork, Eurasian Spoonbill, Pintail, Pochard, Kingfisher, Pelican, and Cormorant.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Van Vihar National Park is sustained by: Bhopal Upper Lake (Bada Talao – Ramsar Site).
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Bhopal Upper Lake Boat Club (1 km), Sanchi Stupa (50 km), Bhimbetka Rock Caves (45 km), Tribal Museum Bhopal (3 km).
Weather & Climate
Subtropical climate (10°C to 40°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Raja Bhoj International Airport Bhopal (BHO) – 12 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Bhopal Junction (BPL) – 8 km / Rani Kamlapati Station – 10 km
- Road Connectivity: In central Bhopal near Lake View Drive.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Van Vihar National Park is from Round the year (October to March best).
Accommodation
MP Tourism Hotels in Bhopal.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Premier rescue center for wild carnivores and orphaned animals in Central India.
Visitor Tips
Rent bicycles at the entry gate to ride along the 5 km park lake road.
Did You Know?
- Located directly on the banks of Bhopal’s 11th-century Upper Lake (Bada Talao).
- Functions uniquely as a combination of National Park, Rescue Center, and Open Zoo.
- Visitors can explore the entire 5 km park road on bicycles.
Last Updated: August 2026