Still missing some adventure in your life? So how about a wild adventure, so ridiculously easy that you can do it in your flip-flops, And guess what, It is super affordable too!!
Say hello to Van Vihar National Park, the best place to visit in Bhopal. This place is the answer to your "I want to see nature but I also don't want to move too much" prayers, A perfect destination for all those lazy instagram travelling enthusiastic people. It’s not quite a zoo, and it's not exactly a scary, lost forever jungle. It’s a place where wildlife actually feels wild and greenery is a lot more than just a bunch of trees around! Think of it more like a sanctuary, where tigers live in swanky, spacious enclosures and herds of deer roam free, just waiting to photobomb your pictures. It’s the perfect spot to finally see some real wildlife that isn't on your social media.
So, before you start planning your outfit for the perfect 'candid' picture with a deer, let me give you the lowdown on this awesome spot!
Location & Overview
Van Vihar National Park is situated on the Shymala Hills, right next to the famous Upper Lake (Bhojtal). It was officially established in 1979, and since then, it’s been the lungs of the city and the star attraction for anyone looking for some nature therapy.
But here’s the catch ; unlike other national parks, Van Vihar doesn’t believe in capturing animals from the wild. Instead, it acts as a retirement home for orphaned, injured, or rescued animals. So basically it is more like, an animal welfare centre disguised as a national park.
Entry is through two gates: Chickoo Dwar near Lake View Road and Ramu Dwar near Bhadbhada. And no, you don’t get free chickoos or a guy named Ramu with your tickets.
Wildlife & Activities to enjoy :
The star attractions here are obviously those big cats. You will find tigers, lions, and leopards safely housed in large enclosures. Don’t worry; they’re not roaming free, this isn’t ‘Jurassic Park’, I mean unfortunately not, but anyways!! Moving ahead on the other side, the herbivores like chital, sambar, blackbuck, nilgai, and wild boar roam around freely, pretending to ignore you while you desperately try to get the perfect Instagram reel.
And well, if talking about Van Vihar and not including birds, is just as ridiculous as not talking about your ex in a kitty part!! With 200+ species, including flamingos, storks, and pochards during winter, Van Vihar is basically Tinder for birds. You’ll spot some of the most photogenic migratory species right at the edge of the lake.
And if that wasn’t enough, the park also houses a Sloth Bear Rescue Centre. About 25 bears live here, rescued from circuses and street performances. So yes, you can finally meet Baloo from The Jungle Book, minus the dancing and singing.
Activities you can enjoy:
Wildlife Safaris: Take a safari ride to get a closer look at the larger like tigers, lions, leopards, crocodiles, and different species of deer.
Bird Watching: Bring your binoculars to spot numerous bird species, including migratory birds.
Boating: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake within the park.
Nature Walks: Stroll along the walking trails and enjoy the lush greenery and scenic views.
Photography: Capture stunning photos of the wildlife, landscapes, and the beautiful sunsets. (Remember that professional photography is chargeable, confirm it at the entrance itself)
Cycling: Rent a bicycle and explore the park’s cycling paths for a more active experience.
Educational Tours: Learn about the park’s conservation efforts and the various species through guided tours.
Timings & Closures
Now, let’s talk about the tricky part – the timings. The park adjusts its opening and closing hours with the seasons. Because, well, animals don’t enjoy the Bhopal summer any more than you do.
Apr – Jul: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Aug – Oct: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Nov – Feb 15: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Feb 16 – Apr: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Ticket counters shut 30 minutes before closing, so don’t try to sneak in at the last moment. And remember: Closed on Fridays and festivals like Holi, Rangpanchami, and Diwali.
Imagine walking all the way up only to see the “Closed” board. That’s when you’ll bond with the stray cows outside instead of the tigers inside.
Van Vihar National Park Ticket Price
Now, for the part that pinches the pocket. The entry fee depends on how lazy or active you plan to be:
Walking: ₹25 (the cheapest, healthiest option).
Own cycle: ₹30.
Park’s cycle: ₹40.
Two-wheeler (2 pax): ₹80.
Auto rickshaw: ₹120.
Car/light vehicle (5 pax): ₹250–300.
Mini bus (20 pax): ₹1000.
Bus (>20 pax): ₹2000.
Shared safari ride: ₹50 per person.
Camera fee: Around ₹40.
Best Time to Visit
Winter (Nov–Feb): Best season for migratory birds, cool weather, and no risk of heat stroke.
Monsoon (Aug–Oct): The park turns into a lush green carpet, great for photography but slightly slippery.
Summer (Apr–Jun): Only recommended for early risers. Post 11 AM, you’ll feel like paneer left inside a tandoor.
How to Reach
Reaching Van Vihar is ridiculously simple:
By Air: Raja Bhoj Airport (~10–16 km).
By Train: Bhopal Junction (~5 km) or Rani Kamalapati (Habibganj) (~8 km).
By Road: Buses drop you near Upper Lake; autos and cabs are available everywhere.
Basically, if you’re in Bhopal, you can’t miss it. It’s harder to avoid than your nosy neighbor aunty who knows your exam results before you do.
Duration of Visit
Quick safari (electric cart): 1.5–2 hours.
Cycling/walking full loop: 3–4 hours.
Birdwatching + boating combo: Half a day.
So whether you’re the “in and out quickly” type or the “let me meditate with the deer” type, Van Vihar works for both.
Rules & Visitor Tips
Closed on Fridays.
No feeding animals.
Plastic bottles discouraged.
Wear comfy clothes and carry water.
Binoculars = bonus points for birding.
Camera charges apply; drones not allowed.
And no, you cannot pet the tiger. This isn’t a petting zoo, it’s more like the tiger will pet you, permanently.
Nearby Attractions
Once you’re done roaming with the wild ones, explore these nearby spots:
Upper Lake (Bhojtal): Paddle boating, motor boating, and even a cruise.
Sair Sapata: A fun amusement park with a suspension bridge.
State Museum of Madhya Pradesh: Perfect for history buffs.
Bharat Bhavan: Cultural hub for art, theatre, and music.
Accommodation Options
If you’re traveling from outside Bhopal, you can stay nearby:
Budget: Lago Villa (~₹2000–2500).
Mid-range: Hotel Centre Park (₹2000–2500), The Vincent Inn (₹3500–4000).
Premium: Enrise by Sayaji (~₹4000–4500).
Conclusion
Van Vihar National Park is more than just a zoo; it’s where wildlife conservation, eco-tourism, and urban convenience meet. It’s perfect for animal lovers, photographers, birdwatchers, or anyone who wants to skip the city chaos for a few hours of calm.
So next time you’re in Bhopal, skip the mall plan and head to Van Vihar instead. You’ll get a date with nature, some Insta-worthy shots, and the chance to see a tiger without driving all the way to Kanha or Bandhavgarh.
Just remember: closed on Fridays. Because even the lions need a weekly off.
