India is home to many beautiful national parks that protect forests, wild animals and nature. These parks are great places who love wildlife and greenery. One such national park is located in the western part of India. It is known for its thick forests, rare animals and peaceful environment. This place attracts many nature lovers, photographers and tourists every year.
Location and Area of Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park, also called Bansda National Park, is a beautiful protected forest area in the state of Gujarat, India. It is known for its thick green forests, wild animals and tribal culture. The park lies in Vansda tehsil of Navsari district in southern Gujarat.
The park is close to the Ambika River and covers about 24 square kilometers. It is about 65 km from Chikhali and 80 km from Valsad. The Vansda-Waghai highway and a narrow railway line pass through the park.
History of the Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park was created in 1979. One special thing about this forest is that no trees have been cut here since 1952, which helps keep the forest very green and natural. It is part of the Western Ghats (Sahyadri hills).
Main Attraction at Vansda National Park
The park has many beautiful and interesting places to see. These include:
- A botanical garden
- The famous Gira Waterfalls
- A conservation center
- A campsite at Kilad for visitors
- A deer breeding center run by Nature Club Surat
Fauna of Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park is home to many animals like:
- Indian leopard, wild boar, spotted deer, barking deer
- Hanuman langur, flying squirrel, Indian porcupine, striped hyena
- Rusty-spotted cat
- Dholes
There are also many snakes, including pythons, cobras, kraits and Russell’s viper.
Flora of Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park has 443 types of flowering plants. Some common trees are:
- Teak, bamboo, kadad, dudhkod, sisam, ambla
- Colorful orchids grow near the Ambika River.
Birds and Other Creatures
The park is great for people who love watching birds. Around 155 bird species live here, such as:
- Common grey hornbill, Malabar tragon, jungle babbler
- Forest spotted owlet, yellow-backed sunbird, woodpeckers
There are also many types of insects, spiders (121 species), centipedes and snails. The giant wood spider is the largest spider species in Gujarat.