Van Vihar National Park is a green park right inside Bhopal, next to the Upper Lake. Animals like tigers, bears and deer live in big open areas, not small cages.
It is a top family stop in Bhopal and part of most of our Bhopal trips.
- Where: Shyamla Hills, next to the Upper Lake, Bhopal.
- Closed: every Friday and on some festivals.
- Go by: walk, cycle or your own vehicle.
- Size: about 4.5 sq km.
- Time needed: about 2 hours.
- Best time: early morning or late afternoon.
Van Vihar Timings
| Season | Timing (about) |
|---|---|
| Summer | Early morning to evening, closed in the hot afternoon on some days |
| Winter | About 6 or 7 AM to 6 or 7 PM |
| Closed | Every Friday, and on Holi and Diwali |
Tip: The ticket counter shuts about 30 minutes before closing. Timings change by season, so check at the gate.
Van Vihar Ticket
- 🚶 By walk: a small fee per person.
- 🚲 By cycle: a small fee, cycles can be hired near the gate.
- 🚗 By car or auto: a fee per vehicle.
- 📋 See the board at the gate for the latest prices.
Animals to See at Van Vihar
1Tigers and White Tigers
Tigers rest in open areas along the main road.
- Best seen in the morning or evening.
2Sloth Bears
Sloth bears saved from street shows live here.
- Fun to watch when they eat.
3Deer, Crocodiles and More
You can see deer, gharials, hyenas and many birds.
- Bird lovers will love the lake side.
Ways to Explore Van Vihar
- 🚲 Cycle: the best way, quiet and fun.
- 🚶 Walk: good for short visits near the gate.
- 🚗 Car: easy for elders and small kids.
- 🌅 Lake road: great views of the Upper Lake.
Best Time to Visit Van Vihar
| Season | Months | In one line |
|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Winter | October to March | Cool, animals are active. |
| Monsoon | July to September | Very green, some rain. |
| Summer | April to June | Hot, go early morning. |
How to Reach Van Vihar
- 📍 Location: Shyamla Hills, near Boat Club and the Upper Lake.
- 🚆 From Bhopal Junction: about 7 to 8 km by road.
- ✈️ From Raja Bhoj Airport: about 15 km by road.
- 🛺 Auto and cab are easy to find in Bhopal.
Places Near Van Vihar
1Upper Lake
The big lake right next to the park.
- Take a boat ride at Boat Club.
2Tribal Museum
A colourful museum on the tribes of Madhya Pradesh.
- A short drive away.
3Bharat Bhavan
An art centre by the lake, close to Van Vihar.
See all spots in our places to visit in Bhopal guide.
Planning a family trip to Bhopal? We arrange the car, hotel and all sightseeing, including Van Vihar. See our Bhopal tour packages. For more of the state, see our Madhya Pradesh tour packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
On which day is Van Vihar closed?
Every Friday, and on some festivals like Holi and Diwali.
What are the Van Vihar timings?
Roughly early morning to evening. Timings change by season, so check at the gate.
What is the Van Vihar ticket price?
There is a small fee by walk or cycle, and a fee per vehicle. Check the board at the gate.
Can we see tigers at Van Vihar?
Yes. Tigers live in open areas along the main road.
Can we cycle inside Van Vihar?
Yes. Cycling is one of the best ways to see the park.
Where is Van Vihar National Park?
At Shyamla Hills, next to the Upper Lake in Bhopal.
