Van Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary

Van Vihar Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located on the Vindhyan Plateau in Dholpur district, Rajasthan. Notified as a sanctuary in 1955, it was one of the oldest wildlife reserves of the rulers of Dholpur. The sanctuary spans approximately 25 to 60 square kilometers and features dense forests of Dhok and Khair trees. It is home to diverse wildlife including sambhar, chital, nilgai, leopards, and over 200 species of birds.

Visitors can expect a natural forest environment on the Vindhyan Plateau with opportunities for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. The sanctuary features open stunted growth of Dhok and Khair trees. Visitors may spot animals such as sambhar, chital, nilgai, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, and leopard. The area offers a peaceful setting for nature observation and photography.

Van Vihar was one of the oldest wildlife reserves of the rulers of Dholpur. Maharaja Udaibhan Singh of Dholpur had great sympathy for animals and frequented the area. The sanctuary was officially notified by the Rajasthan Government in 1955.