Van Vihar National Park

Van Vihar National Park is a 4.45 sq km national park and modern zoological park located on the southern bank of Upper Lake (Bhojtal) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. Established in 1979 and declared a national park in 1983, it is managed by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department. It houses rescued, orphaned and captive-bred wildlife including tigers, lions, leopards, bears and diverse bird species in near-natural enclosures, serving as a centre for conservation, education and recreation within the city.

Visitors can expect a well-maintained urban national park along the Upper Lake with a 3-4 km paved road and walking trails through forested landscape. Animals such as tiger, lion, leopard, sloth bear, hyena, crocodile and numerous birds are seen in large natural enclosures and aviaries. The park offers cycling, battery-operated vehicle rides, lakeside views, interpretation centre and butterfly park, providing a calm nature experience within Bhopal city.

Developed in 1979 on degraded hill land near Upper Lake and notified as a National Park in 1983 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Managed by the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department and recognized as a modern zoological park by the Central Zoo Authority, it was created to house rescued and orphaned animals and to promote conservation education.

Serves as a major environmental education and recreation centre for Bhopal residents and visitors, promoting awareness of wildlife conservation and coexistence with nature in an urban setting adjacent to the historic Bhojtal lake.