Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, National park in Vanasthalipuram, Hyderabad district, India.
Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is a protected area in Hyderabad district covering roughly 15 square kilometers of grassland, dry deciduous forest, and scrubland. The vegetation ranges from sandalwood and rosewood trees to teak stands, providing habitat for numerous animal species.
The land once served as a private hunting ground for the Nizams of Hyderabad before being declared a national park in 1975. This transformation took place to mark the 2500th birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, shifting from royal hunting grounds to a sanctuary for endangered species.
The park carries the name of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, reflecting the region's religious roots and its values of respect for all living beings. Visitors today see this philosophy in the peaceful coexistence between wildlife and the surrounding communities.
Visitors can explore the grounds daily except Mondays through guided tours and safari vehicles, with early morning or late afternoon typically offering the most rewarding visits. Entry requires a small fee, and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking along unpaved paths.
The area is home to around 400 blackbuck deer, the state animal of Andhra Pradesh, which visitors often see grazing in large herds across open plains. The deer have grown so comfortable with human presence that they sometimes remain just a few meters from the path during safari drives.
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