NATIONAL PARKS OF INDIA

Located in Andhra Pradesh, about 15 km away from Hyderabad city, Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park was established to preserve the rare black buck, which is the state animal of Andhra Pradesh.
 
About the park
The park was set-up in the year 1975 and covers an area of about 14.59 square kilometer. It was named after Lord Mahavira, the eminent Jain saint. In the earlier days it used to be a reserve hunting ground of the Nizam of Hyderabad.
 
Flora
The vegetation cover of the park ranges from grasslands to dry deciduous forest. The prominent trees of the region include Rosewood, Amalthas, Palas, Teak, Accacias, Albizzias, Sandalwood, etc.
 
Fauna
Almost 400 black bucks are found in this park. Black bucks, in Telugu language, are also known as Krishna Jinka. The other animals of the reserve are cheetahs, civet, wild boar, panther, porcupine, cheetals, snakes, monitor lizards and so on.
 
Avian-fauna
Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is a popular haven for different avian species. Peacock, ducks, quails, partridges, egrets, sun bird, lapwings, vultures, kites, short-toed eagle, etc. are some of the popular birds that can be sighted here.
 
Transport
The nearest airport and the railway station to the park are located in Hyderabad, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh. Regular bus services connect the park with the capital city.
 
General tips
Several guest houses are available in and around the park for accommodations. More accommodation options are available in Hyderabad. The visitors can have a panoramic view of the park from the observation towers, set-up in the park for the purpose. Shuttle buses and safari vans are available for viewing the flora and fauna closely.
 
Tourist Information
Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, NH9, Vijayawada Highway, Vanasthalipuram,
Hyderabad - 500070, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Phone: (040) 24020950 / 1800 4254 5454
Park timings: 9 am to 5.30 pm; Tuesday - Sunday
Closed on: all Mondays and public holidays
Best time to visit: October - March.
Entry Fees applicable