Located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, Velavadar Blackbuck National Park is truly a special place for nature and wildlife lovers. Extending over 34.08 square kilometres, it was established in 1976 and is the only tropical grassland sanctuary in India that has been declared a national park. The star attraction of the park comprises more than 4,500 graceful blackbuck antelopes, which represent Indian wildlife with their spiral horns and sleek black and white coats. Let’s dig more about this wonderful park which is close to Praveg Safari Velavadar resort.
Wildlife Highlights
Although blackbuck make for the major attraction of Velavadar, many mammals call this national park home, including Indian wolf, striped hyena, jungle cat, golden jackal, Indian fox, Bengal fox, nilgai, and wild boar. This national park is among the few places in the country that still support the endangered Indian wolf in a natural grassland landscape.
Furthermore, Velavadar is famed among expert birdwatchers, including many whose entire travel experience is solely focused on seeing birds. More than 140 species of birds have been recorded. In winter, many birds come for a visit, including flamingos, pelicans, sarus cranes, painted storks, common and demoiselle cranes, and several harrier species. In addition, Velavadar is one of the last places in India to witness the courtship display of the critically endangered lesser florican, a real feature of the monsoon season.
The topography of the park consists of a fascinating combination of open grasslands, salty mudflats, wetlands, and thorny shrubland. The grasslands to the north attract large groups of antelope and predators, and the wetlands to the south, adjacent to the Gulf of Khambhat, provide excellent habitats for waders, migratory flocks, and raptors.
Experience a Safari
Traveling through Velavadar on a jeep safari is an experience to remember as you cross wide-open grasslands where wildlife roams. Safaris are best in the early morning or late afternoon, as animals are active and the light is golden for stunning photography results.
With all safaris led by experienced naturalists, visitors learn much more, including animal behaviour, grassland ecology, and conservation efforts taking place in the area. Seeing a pack of wolves on the run, a harrier gliding above the wetlands, or a herd of blackbucks thunder across the plains are unforgettable experiences.
When to Go
From mid-June to mid-October, the park closes during the monsoon to protect breeding species. The best time to visit Velavadar is from late October to March, as migratory birds arrive in large numbers, and the temperature is cool and pleasant.
Velavadar National Park is conveniently located just 42 km from the city of Bhavnagar. The park is easily accessible from either Bhavnagar Airport or Dhola Junction railway station, making it a great weekend getaway for wildlife photographers or casual travellers eager to sample the experience.
Comfortable accommodation at Praveg Safari Velavadar
Praveg Safari Velavadar, located only 1.5 kilometres from the park entrance, is an upscale accommodation option that adds luxury to the wilderness experience. The 50,819 square meter resort has 12 private lake-view cottages, which have been designed to give guests privacy, comfort, and the charm of living in a safari-style cabin.
Every cottage opens toward a panoramic view of a tranquil lake where birds and wild animals frequently visit, which means guests can enjoy close encounters with wildlife without stepping off their cabins' verandas. Each cottage is neatly designed with rugged elegance and style, combined with the modern comforts of air conditioning, flat screen televisions, Wi-Fi, and spacious lounges on your own private deck.
Praveg Safari Velavadar also provides a refreshing swimming pool, wholesome organic vegetarian meal options, and custom safari assignments with trained guides. Whether guests are celebrating a special event or unwinding from a thrilling day in the grasslands, Praveg Safari Velavadar meets a dual objective of enjoyment and wilderness.
Conclusion
Velavadar Safari completely embodies the atmosphere of India’s grasslands—endless vistas of blackbucks leaping across the expanses, the tragic wail of wolves at sundown, and large flocks of migratory cranes dotted across the open sky. In combination with the hospitality and care extended by Praveg Safari Velavadar, Velavadar is a remarkable destination of adventure and tranquillity.
For nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and wildlife photographers, this is not merely visiting Velavadar; it is coming face to face with one of India's lushest natural ecosystems, and it should offer the appreciation of that precious wild beauty that has preceded us.
