Mahavir
Harina Vanasthali National Park is situated in Vanasthalipuram, which is
around 15 kilometers from the city. Mahavir Harina Vanasthali Wildlife
Sanctuary in Hyderabad has been named after the holy Jain saint 'Lord
Mahavira'. It was established in 1975 on this renowned saint's 2500th
birth anniversary. This sanctuary was once the exciting 'Shikargarh' or
hunting ground of one of the Nizam rulers. It has now been converted
into a protected national park under the law. The park is in full bloom
during monsoons when beautiful flowers of different colors blossom all
around. This Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park is home to the
endangered Black Buck deer. An estimated 400 deer roam around the
National Park fearlessly.The other species of animals apart from the Black Buck that are found over here are cheetahs, wild boar, monitor lizards, mongooses, porcupines and innumerable variety of snakes. Several species of birds like partridges, quails, peacocks, doves, pond herons, egrets, kingfishers, cormorants are also found here in great numbers. One can also find birds of prey like kites, vultures, eagle etc. Over 80 species of migratory birds can be seen basking in the sun. The Short-toed Eagle, which is a rare variety among the bird species, is also found in this area. The national park provides a tour around the park in vans for those who are interested in seeing the wildlife from a nearer distance. The park is open on all days (except Monday), from 9am to 5 pm. There are observation points in the Park for people to view animals at hotspots.