A dense, deciduous forest nestled in the Sahyadri ranges of South Gujarat, just a short drive from Saputara.
Once the private hunting grounds of the Maharaja of Vansda, this national park is a stark contrast to the dry grasslands of Kutch or the scrub forests of Gir. Vansda is known for its towering teak trees, bamboo groves, and lush canopy that is so dense in some areas that sunlight barely touches the ground. The scenic Ambika River flows through the park, adding to its botanical beauty.
Despite its relatively small size (approx 24 sq km), Vansda is rich in biodiversity. It is home to leopards, hyenas, jungle cats, and civets. The park is also one of the few places in Gujarat where you can spot the Indian Giant Squirrel. Herbivores like the barking deer, four-horned antelope, and spotted deer are frequently sighted.
For birdwatchers, Vansda is a paradise. It harbors rare species typical of the Western Ghats, such as the Malabar Trogon, Great Black Woodpecker, and the Shama. The forest comes alive with bird calls, especially in the early mornings.
The park is located very close to Waghai and the popular hill station of Saputara, making it an excellent addition to a South Gujarat itinerary. The nearby Kilad Eco Campsite and Gira Waterfalls are popular stops for nature lovers.
The best time to visit is from October to March. Unlike many other parks, Vansda remains beautiful even immediately after the monsoon (September-October), when the forest is at its greenest and the waterfalls are in full flow.
Official booking inquiry for Vansda National Park.
Zones: No fixed zones
(Single dense forest offering route-based exploration)
| Activity / Category | Price (Indian Nationals) | Price (Foreign Nationals) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Fee (Per Person) | ₹100 - ₹200 | ₹250 - ₹500 |
| Vehicle Entry Fee (Private/Hired Vehicle) | ₹400 | ₹1,000 |
| Guide Charges (Per Hour) | ₹100 / hour | ₹250 / hour |
Located in the Dangs district, Vansda is uniquely characterized by a canopy so thick that parts of the forest remain dark even during midday. Visitors typically explore the designated routes using their own Private Vehicles or locally hired 4x4s.
*Because exploration relies on time spent inside the thick foliage, guide fees are charged on a per-hour basis rather than a flat safari rate.
The park operates on a single daytime schedule, giving visitors flexibility.
October to March: The most ideal time. Post-monsoon, the forest is incredibly lush, streams are full, and winter brings pleasant temperatures for navigating the tracks.
Summer (April to June): Good for spotting specific bird species and wildlife near the remaining water sources, though the terrain can be very dry.
Note: Vansda National Park is strictly closed during the monsoon season (June to October) as the dense tracks become muddy, unsafe, and infested with leeches.