Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary, located in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, India, is a jewel in the crown of the state's rich biodiversity. Established in 1976, this sanctuary spans over 34 square kilometers and is renowned for its thriving population of blackbucks (Antilope cervicapra), an elegant and endangered antelope species. The landscape is characterized by vast plains, interspersed with patches of scrub and thorn forests, creating an ideal habitat for the blackbuck population.
The sanctuary is renowned for its successful conservation efforts focused on the blackbuck, a species that faced severe threats due to habitat loss and hunting. Visitors can witness large herds of blackbucks gracefully grazing in their natural habitat. Additionally, the sanctuary is a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting a diverse avian population, including harriers, eagles, and numerous migratory birds.
The sanctuary is open for visitors from sunrise to sunset. The entrance fee for Velavadar National Park is USD 50 per permit for foreign nationals and INR 500 for Indian citizens. Tickets can be purchased at the sanctuary entrance. For those who prefer online booking, tickets can be reserved through the official website or designated online platforms. Tickets can be booked here: https://www.gujarattourism.com/registered-tour-operators.html
Accommodation options are provided at the Forest Department's rest house. Additionally, a tourist lodge is located close to the National Park.
Accomodation can be booked on https://blackbucknationalpark.com/accommodation-in-velavadar/
The sanctuary offers a range of activities for visitors to immerse themselves in its natural wonders. Guided safaris, both in the early morning and late afternoon, provide an opportunity to observe the blackbucks and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The safari cost at Velavadar's Blackbuck National Park is USD 122 for foreign nationals and INR 5500 for Indian nationals per jeep per safari. These prices include the forest permit charge, guide fees, gypsy rental, as well as pick-up and drop-off services from the resort. The safari can be booked on https://blackbucknationalpark.com/safari-velavadar/ . Safari Hours are from-
Morning: 06:30 AM to 09:30 AM
Evening: 03:00 PM to 06:00 PM
Velavadar also emphasizes conservation education and awareness. Interpretation centers and information boards are set up to educate visitors about the significance of the ecosystem and the importance of wildlife conservation.
The nearest airport to Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary is Bhavnagar Airport, approximately 72 kilometers away.
The nearest railway station to Velavadar Blackbuck Sanctuary is Bhavnagar Terminus, approximately 55 kilometers away.
Velavadar is well-connected by road to nearby cities. Various state-run and private buses operate between Velavadar and major cities in Gujarat and nearby states.
Gujarat
Bhavnagar has various restaurants that serve local cuisine like dhokla, fafda, gathiya, etc.
Gujarati is widely spoken here but tourists can communicate with locals in English and Hindi.
The ideal time to explore the Blackbuck Sanctuary is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather during this period is pleasant, and wildlife, including blackbucks and migratory birds, are more active. The mornings and evenings offer the best safari experience, with cooler temperatures and higher chances of spotting wildlife.
