Velavadar Blackbuck National Park
Elusive and exclusive, Velavadar Blackbuck National Park in Bhavnagar has something exciting to offer everyone. As the name suggests, the park is home to the rare population of blackbuck, which is hard to find in India. Created in 1976, and nearly doubled in size in 1980, the park now covers 34 square km, which is barely one-sixth the size of the city of Ahmedabad.
An excellent place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Velavadar National Park was initially a private grassland for the Maharaja of Bhavnagar. Other than the whimsical blackbucks, the park houses a sizeable amount of bird and animal species that consider their small wetland a part of their home. Some of India's largest herds of this antelope are seen in this park. Jeep safari and trekking is the best way to explore the best of Velavadar National Park. One should avoid visiting the Velavadar National Park during the monsoon region as the area is more prone to flood.
An entirely different experience of the wildlife begins to transcend as the darkness falls. The persistent howls of jackals add to the feeling of true wilderness. The long, deep, and threatening howls of wolves, occasionally penetrate the darkness.
The grassland lies between two rivers namely Parvalia and Alang, which drain into the Gulf of Cambay. During the monsoon, the area is often flooded. The blackbuck herds are mostly found in the northern part of the sanctuary, while the southern part has patches of thorn forest providing excellent opportunities for bird watching (especially birds of prey). The Alang River forms the southern border of the park and is the favorite retreat for wolves. The park can be toured by a vehicle as well as on foot.
Safari and Other Activities at Blackbuck National Park
A wildlife safari to this National Park is sure to prove a lifetime memory for its visitors. The safari will allow you to watch the prolific wildlife of the region very closely. So do not forget your camera and binoculars to miss out on any action going on in the park.
Also, you can visit the Takhteshwar Temple which was built in 1893 by the local royal family of the district. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
