A Nature Retreat!
Telangana state is home to quite a few natural habitats where many flora and fauna thrive. There are national parks in the state, where the environment is left undisturbed for the wildlife to thrive under protected laws. One such unique wildlife destination, located close to urban environment is the Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park. It is located in Ranga Reddy district limits of Hyderabad, and has emerged as a great wildlife attraction. The wildlife park, named after the holy saint of the Jains, Lord Mahavir, is located in Vanasthalipuram, a residential suburb of Hyderabad.
It is particularly known for being a habitat for the endangered Black Buck deer. The other animals found here are wild boar, porcupines, monitor lizards, and several snakes. The national park is spread over hundreds of acres of pristine surroundings. The park has been named after Mahavir, the Jain saint, in commemoration of his 2500th anniversary of Nirvana in the year 1975. The place where this park is currently located was once a private hunting place for the Nizam’s, the erstwhile rulers of Hyderabad.
The park has a topography made up of several rocky exposures, which are characteristic of Deccan formation. The fauna of the wildlife sanctuary is quite varied. Foxes, black-naped hares, Wild boars, as well as Indian vipers are the most striking species for the curious traveler. There are about 30 species of reptiles and more than 120 species of birds. The environment is dry deciduous forest, mixed with scrub jungle and grasslands. Explorers can find species like Sandalwood, palas, amalthas, rosewood, albizzias, accacias, teak etc., among hundreds of other tree species.
Visitors can view the animals through sheds and viewing towers. The government has also introduced van safaris to take the visitors on a ride within the park to watch the animals closely. Guided tours are available within the park. There are other facilities too provided here.
How to Reach
The National park is located nearly 15 km away from Hyderabad city, in the suburbs, close to the Hyderabad – Vijayawada highway.