Bhopal Zoo (Van Vihar)

Van Vihar National Park is one of India’s most unique wildlife parks, combining the features of a national park, rescue centre, and modern zoological park. Located beside the scenic Upper Lake in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, the park was established to conserve wildlife and provide rescued animals with a natural habitat. Unlike traditional zoos, Van Vihar follows an open-enclosure concept where herbivores roam freely while carnivores are housed in large natural enclosures. The park is also an important conservation and breeding centre for species such as Royal Bengal Tigers, Barasingha, and vultures.

Points of Attractions

• Big Cat Zone: Royal Bengal Tigers, lions, leopards, hyenas
• Herbivore Area: Deer (chital, sambar), blackbuck, nilgai, wild boar roaming in open spaces
• Reptile Section: Crocodiles, gharials, cobras, pythons, turtles
• Bird Watching: Over 200 bird species including migratory birds near Upper Lake
• Upper Lake Views: Scenic wetland ecosystem with boating-side greenery
• Snake Rescue Centre: Rehabilitation and awareness centre for rescued snakes
• Cycling & Nature Trails: Bicycle and electric vehicle rides inside the park

Facilities

• Parking area
• Drinking water points
• Washrooms
• Bicycle rental service
• Electric vehicle safari rides
• Guided nature interpretation (limited availability)
• Resting shelters and shaded areas
• Cafeteria / refreshment stalls
• Photography allowed (with charges for cameras)

Best in the Zoo

• White Tiger & Bengal Tiger enclosure (most popular highlight)
• Crocodile & Gharial zone near water bodies
• Bird watching near Upper Lake wetlands
• Cycling through forested safari routes
• Rescue & rehabilitation centres (educational experience)
• Sunrise or early morning nature walk experience