Gujarat Tourism’s Hidden Gem – Velavadar National Park

Velavadar National Park

Velavadar National Park is a hidden gem. Covering a comparatively small area of about 34 sq Velavadar is one of the world’s best places to watch the blackbuck, an elegant Indian antelope. This national park is also among the few places where the Indian wolf is proliferating in India and one of the top breeding sites for lesser florican. For birdwatchers, Velavadar is an excellent area to watch Stolizka’s bush chat, saras crane and other grassland birds. In winter, Velavadar’s grasslands play host to one of the world’s largest harrier roosts. The sight of a thousand harrier hawks flying towards the Velavadar grasslands in the evening for their roost is one of the great spectacles of the natural world.

The Velavadar National Park is one of the best places for blackbuck viewing in India. The Savannah-like grasslands with its profusion of antelope is reminiscent of the African national parks.

Velavadar National Park Gujarat

VISITORS’ GUIDE:
Transport Hubs (Approximate distances):
Bhavnagar Airport/Railway Station 65km

Accommodation: The Blackbuck Lodge is an up market resort at Velavadar. The forest department also has accommodation facilities in the national park.

When to visit: The Velavadar National Park is open from mid-October to mid-June. The national park is closed during the rains but the surrounding areas can yield good birdlife including endangered species like the lesser florican that breed here in the monsoon months.

For more information on Gujarat tour packages contact Swan Tours, one of the leading travel agents in Delhi .

12 things to be careful of while on a wildlife safari in India

careful of while on a wildlife safari in India

wildlife safari in India

Eco-tourism or Ecologically Sustainable Tourism has been defined by the World Trade Organisation as Responsible Tourism, to areas with natural wealth, with the intent to conserve the environment and improve the well-being of local communities. It has been recognised as an important conservation tool as it encourages communities, government, as well as private agencies to protect natural resources that attract tourists, resulting in economic benefits.

wildlife safari

Viewing wildlife is a deeply rewarding experience. Yet, it is important to remember that we are merely guests visiting the animals in their personal space, and should do so as discreetly as possible.

Wildlife in India

A few reminders:

1. Do not wear brightly coloured clothes or strong perfumes.
2. Diesel vehicles are not allowed inside the parks/ sanctuaries.
3. Maintain speed limit of 20 kmph and keep strictly to the road.
4. Refrain from using car horn or headlights.
5. Do not get down from your vehicle where it is not allowed.
6. Do not feed the animals or litter the surroundings.
7. Never try to chase or corner animals for a better photo opportunity. Keep a safe distance from them.
8. Do not use flash photography as it startles the animals.
9. Do not make sudden or loud noises. Speak in hushed tones.
10. Turn off cell phones, alarms or any other ringing or musical devices.
11. Do not smoke inside the parks. Negligence can lead to forest fires.
12. Carry binoculars and engage the services of a professional guide to make the visit more compelling.

Wildlife

For more information wildlife tourism contact Swan Tours, one of the leading tour operators in India.