Blackbuck

The blackbuck is an Indian antelope, famous for the male's spiralled horns and striking black-and-white coat. The grasslands of Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, within reach of Dholera, are one of the best places in India to see it.

What the blackbuck is

The blackbuck is an antelope native to the Indian subcontinent, one of the fastest land animals in India and a species long woven into local culture and art. Mature males carry long, ringed, spiralling horns and develop a dark, almost black upper coat that contrasts sharply with a white belly and eye patches, while females and young are fawn-coloured. Blackbuck are grassland grazers, active by day, and typically seen in herds out on open plains, which makes them relatively easy to watch where they are protected.

Where to see it near Dholera

The signature place is Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, on the grasslands south of the Bhal coast within reach of Dholera. The park protects one of the country's most important blackbuck populations and is also known for wolves and for large winter roosts of harriers, making it a prime wildlife destination. For visitors combining the region's heritage and nature, Velavadar pairs naturally with Nalsarovar's wetlands and a Lothal heritage stop. Best viewing is generally in the cooler, drier months, and you should follow park timings and rules, which we cover in our travel pages.