About Bhavnagar

Gujarat

BhavnagarBhavnagarVelavadar Blackbuck National ParkVelavadar Blackbuck National Park

Overview

Bhavnagar is a coastal city in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, and the nearest city to Blackbuck National Park at Velavadar, about 54 km away. Velavadar protects open grassland where large herds of blackbuck graze, along with Indian wolves, striped hyenas and lesser floricans, and in winter it is one of the largest roosting grounds for migratory harriers. The city itself has the Takhteshwar temple on a hill, the Gaurishankar lake and old markets, and is the usual way to reach the Jain temples of Palitana.

Best Time to Visit Bhavnagar

Plan your trip around the right season

Oct-FebBest Window

Why visit

Velavadar reopens on 16 October; winter brings harriers to roost and pleasant safari weather.

Keep in mind

Weekends cost more at the park, with a surcharge on entry fees.

How to Reach Bhavnagar

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Bhavnagar has an airport and the Bhavnagar Terminus railway station. Velavadar is about 140 km from Ahmedabad and 160 km from Rajkot by road.

Getting Around Bhavnagar

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

Hire a taxi in Bhavnagar for the drive to Velavadar, about an hour each way. Autos cover the city.

Best Areas to Stay in Bhavnagar

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Bhavnagar city

Most visitors

City hotels with good road links to Velavadar and Palitana.

Velavadar

Wildlife photographers

Lodges and the Forest Department accommodation near the park, for early and late safaris.