The park supports a diverse array of wildlife including leopards, four-horned antelopes, barking deer, wild boars, and various species of primates like langurs and macaques. It's particularly renowned for its rich avifauna, hosting over 115 species of birds including hornbills, woodpeckers, and racket-tailed drongos. The park is also home to numerous reptile species, including pythons and monitor lizards, as well as various butterfly species, making it a crucial biodiversity hotspot.
Vansda National Park boasts a rich variety of vegetation typical of South Gujarat's forests. The park predominantly features moist deciduous forests with tall teak trees, bamboo groves, and dense understory vegetation. Notable species include Terminalia crenulata, Wrightia tinctoria, Tectona grandis (teak), and various medicinal plants. The park also harbors numerous orchid species, ferns, and climbers, making it a significant botanical preserve in the region.
The park is situated in the western foothills of the Sahyadri range (Western Ghats), with an elevation ranging from 100 to 300 meters above sea level. The terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, formed by ancient geological processes. The soil is primarily red and consists of alluvial deposits, supporting rich vegetation. The Ambica River flows through the park, creating a diverse landscape of riverine forests and moist deciduous woodlands.
Vansda National Park was established in 1979 and was formerly a private hunting ground of the Maharaja of Vansda. The park was officially declared as a protected area to preserve its unique biodiversity and the pristine forest ecosystem of the Western Ghats. Covering approximately 24 square kilometers, it represents one of the last remaining patches of original forest cover in Gujarat's Navsari district, and has been instrumental in protecting the region's indigenous flora and fauna.
The park offers several unique attractions including nature interpretation centers, watchtowers for wildlife viewing, and well-marked nature trails for trekking enthusiasts. The Ambica River flowing through the park creates beautiful riverine landscapes and serves as a vital water source for wildlife. The park's proximity to tribal villages provides visitors with opportunities to experience local cultural heritage. Educational programs and guided tours are available, making it an important center for environmental education and nature conservation awareness.
Vansda National Park experiences a tropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons. Summers (March to June) are hot and dry with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, averaging 2000mm annually, making the park lush and vibrant but sometimes difficult to access. Winters (October to February) are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C, making it the ideal time for visitors to explore the park.
India
20.7670°, 73.4830°
1979
23.99
Vansda National Park is one of the most important protected areas in Gujarat featuring moist deciduous forests. The park is home to various species of wild orchids and medicinal plants. It serves as an important habitat for leopards and several species of endangered birds.