Picture yourself in a forest where the sun’s rays penetrate only the upper layer of the vegetation, where the air is filled with the voices of birds that are hardly seen, and where leopards sneak up to their prey in the thickets. Welcome to the Vansda National Park, the enigmatic forest of the Dangs district of Gujarat. This park, once a Maharaja’s hunting reserve, is one of the few places in the Western Ghats where some of the most elusive species are found. But the real beauty of Vansda is its prehistoric tribal lore – the legends of groves guarded by spirits, making it a place where legends and trees meet in the most enchanting way.
The History Of Vansda National Park
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Vansda National Park was established in 1979 and was the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Vansda. The park has a large forest area that has not been logged for over fifty years and is home to distinct flora and fauna. This national park is situated in the Dangs district and is important in protecting the area’s biodiversity.
It has more than 443 species of flowering plants and other wildlife, such as Indian leopards, four-horned antelope, and birds like the Malabar trogon. Vansda’s history is even more vibrant and colourful because of its strong link with the tribal population of the region, which is in tune with nature.
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Flora And Fauna Of Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park is famous for its flora and fauna and has more than 443 flowering plants, such as teak, sadad, bamboo, and many types of orchids. The park has a large forest cover, and this has made it possible to support different types of animals, such as the Indian leopard, the four-horned antelope and the sloth bear.
Bird lovers will be delighted to know that this area has over 155 species of birds, including the Malabar trogon, great Indian black woodpecker, forest spotted owlet, etc. It also houses several species of reptiles, such as pythons and vipers, the Russell’s viper being among them. Due to the presence of various flora and fauna, Vansda is an essential area for conservation in Gujarat.
Vansda National Park Ticket Price And Timings
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Vansda National Park timings are from 7:00 AM to evening 5:00 PM daily. The entry fees are INR 400 for cars, SUVs and Jeeps, INR 2000 for minibuses and heavy vehicles, INR 100 per hour for a guide (INR 50 for every additional hour) and INR 200 for DSLR cameras.
Permits for videography cost between INR 5000 and INR 10,000, and feature film shooting costs between INR 25,000 and INR 50,000. The best time to visit is between October and March because the climate is favourable and the park is full of green vegetation.
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Places To Visit Nearby Vansda National Park
Besides visiting this park, you can explore many beautiful places located near Vansda National Park. It is a heaven for wildlife enthusiasts, featuring rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. Explore dense forests and diverse flora and fauna in this serene natural sanctuary.
1. Saputara Hill
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Saputara Hill is the only hill station in Gujarat and is situated at a distance of 87 km from Vansda National Park. Located in the Sahyadri range, this is one of the most beautiful towns with a pleasant climate and greenery. Tourists can take a boat ride on the Saputara Lake, go to the Ropeway for the scenic view of the region or trek up to the Sunset Point to catch the view of the valleys. Saputara also has a Tribal Museum and many shops selling tribal artefacts and handicrafts to give a feel of the tribal culture of the region. This beautiful hill station is ideal for tourists who would like to take a break and enjoy the natural beauty of the place.
Days Needed: 1-2 days
Entry Fee: Free entry
2. Saptashrungi Devi Temple
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Saptashrungi Devi Temple is a famous temple located in the Nandurbar district of Maharashtra at 84 Kms from Vansda National Park. Located on one of the seven hills of Saptashrungi, the temple has a spectacular view of the surrounding terrain. It is located at a height of 500 steps and the idol of Goddess Saptashrungi with weapons and ornaments is worshipped here. The temple has a religious appeal and the surrounding hills are beautiful, thus many people visit the place for religious and recreational purposes. A visit here is a cultural and spiritual experience that is quite deep.
Days Needed: 2 days
Entry Fee: Free entry
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3. Wilson Hills
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Wilson Hills, which is at a distance of about 87 km from Vansda National Park, is another beautiful hill station in Gujarat which is not very popular. Wilson Hills is a famous hill station that is located in the northern region of India and is famous for its relatively low temperatures and beautiful terrains. The hill station has various viewpoints, like Marble Chatri Point and Ozone Valley Point, where one can look at the valleys and the far-off Arabian Sea. The area is also endowed with vegetation and wildlife and is ideal for hiking and bird-watching. Wilson Hills is perfect for a peaceful vacation from the noisy and crowded cities.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: Free entry
4. Sardar Patel Museum, Bardoli
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Sardar Patel Museum in Bardoli is another important historical museum related to the freedom struggle of India. It is situated 87 km away from the Vansda National Park. It is dedicated to the Bardoli Satyagraha, which was an important movement launched by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in 1928. People can also take time to view some of the displays that explain the events of the Satyagraha and Patel’s part in the struggle for Indian independence. The museum also has many items, photographs and documents from the period and provides a rich understanding of the Indian freedom struggle. In the case of history lovers, it is a good place to get an insight into the history of India.
Days Needed: 1-2 days
Entry Fee: INR 20 for Adults and INR 10 for Children
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5. Ukai Dam
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Ukai Dam is situated at a distance of 90 km from Vansda National Park and is the second largest reservoir of Gujarat and a splendid piece of modern architecture. Built over the Tapti River, the dam is used for purposes of irrigation, generation of hydroelectric power and flood moderation. The surrounding area of the dam is also a tourist attraction site especially during the rainy season when water is expected to be high. It is possible to observe the reservoir from the territory of the park, go to the Gira Waterfalls, or get acquainted with the traditions of the Songhar village. Ukai Dam is a fine example of the natural beauty of the region complemented by the architectural brilliance of mankind.
Days Needed: 2 days
Entry Fee: Free entry
How To Reach Vansda National Park
By Road: Vansda National Park is approachable by road transport and is situated at a distance of 65 km from Chikhali and 80 km from Valsad. The park has the Vansda-Waghai state highway running through it.
By Rail: The nearest railhead is at Waghai which is only 4 km from the park. Another station is Bilimora station which is on the narrow-gauge rail link.
By Air: The nearest airport is Surat International Airport, which is about 120 km from the site. On arrival at the park, one can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to the park.
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Vansda National Park is also a combination of the natural splendour, bio-diversity and the tribal culture. If you are hiking through its green forests, observing exotic animals, or visiting other tourist sites such as Saputara Hill and Ukai Dam, this park will not let you down. When you are planning your next trip to Gujarat, do not forget to include Vansda National Park in your list as it is a perfect destination for nature lovers with a touch of history and local flavour. Make your trip to Gujarat today!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Vansda National Park
What are the main activities to be done in Vansda National Park?
Tourists can engage in jeepney tours, bird watching, hiking and camping in the park. These are the top activities to explore in the park.
Is there any place to stay within the Vansda National Park?
There are no facilities for lodging inside the park but there are several hotels and guest houses in the nearby towns of Ahwa and Saputara.
Is it possible to visit Vansda National Park in the monsoon season?
Although the park is accessible throughout the monsoon season, the ideal time to visit is during the months of October to March.
Do I have to engage the services of a guide when I am visiting Vansda National Park?
It is advisable to employ a guide even though it is not compulsory as it will make your experience even better and you will have higher chances of seeing the animals.
Is the park suitable for trekking or hiking?
There are no trekking or hiking trails in the park and is mainly known for wildlife observation and nature walks.
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