Gir National Park — Attraction in Gujarat

It's a best place in Junagadh-Gujarat-INDIA and when you travel in any part of this region or passing through this region than you should stay 1 or 2 days in junagadh or near by sasan area, This Gir forest is around 2Km from Sasan and 35 Km from Junagadh you can reach by car with in 30 to 40 minute from junagadh, and for staying there is a best place named Hotel Lotus, Near railway station, Junagadh. hotel people can arrange everything for you if you want to 1 day trip to Gri forest , as per my views must visit and kids love that place. for food and all you get good restaurant at Gir forest, also there are hotel welcome Taj Group. you can stay over night there also. in short must look and visit..We stayed at the Taj property and had asked them to arrange a jeep safari. This needs permission from the govt so do plan ahead of time. Book for early morning safari for a better chance of seeing lions.

In general the forest not very dense or green, it's dry and pretty monotonous due to almost one or two vegetation types mainly.

Seeing lions, don't expect a grand show or some thing. If you get to see one or two lions even at a distance consider yourself lucky.

We went 2 times. Once in the jeep, this was good. The second time we were told that the govt runs buses with 16 people in each bus and they take you exactly where the lions are. I consider it quite useless. And hand pitiable part is that there are people in the bus that have waited for almost 6-7 hours in a line to see the lions and they are very anxious to see them. You do get to see, but not very clear due to the way the bus is built.

Instead there is a nearby reserve, devaliya. Just go there and you will surely see lions much more closer than even in Gir.First day experience at Gir

Its 2.30am. Sleeping cozily and all by myself in a 3-bed tent, I am woken up to alarm calls of deer. They are not too close, yet I can hear them as if they were just a few hundred meters away.

They come from 3 different qaurters of the forest. The alarm calls stop and I resume sleep.

Its 5am now. I am woken up to alarm calls of deer again, and in the distance, I hear the lions sounding their characteristic territorial calls. This atmosphere reminds of the famous Val Kilmer movie, "The Ghost and the Darkness".

I seem to be the only outsider and the manager of the resort Sailesh Bhai is surprised that I have come all the way from Bangalore to see lions.

How Safari is Booked

There are two ways of booking your safari;

Speak with your tour operator. He will get a person to go and hold a place in the queue. At 2.30am, you need to wake up and replace him to purchase the tickets. If you have a driver with you or a tour guide operating the tour for you, you don't have to wake up so early.

You can book your safari online. The disadvantage some persons feel is that they make new friends and if they want to take them along for a safari, it will not be possible. In such cases, a physical booking on the spot is beneficial. Remember, you cannot add persons physically once you have done an...

A Thrilling Wilderness Experience: Gir Safari

Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, is the only place in the world where you can witness the majestic Asiatic Lions in their natural habitat. A visit to this wildlife sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience, combining adventure, awe, and the beauty of nature.

Planning Your Visit: One of the most crucial tips for enjoying a seamless safari is booking your tickets online well in advance, preferably three months prior to your visit. The demand for Gir Safari is exceptionally high, and securing a morning slot, especially the 6 AM safari, offers the best chance of spotting wildlife. The early morning timings provide the perfect conditions—cool weather, active animals, and golden sunlight that enhances the scenery.

The online booking process is straightforward, and you can choose from different safari zones. It’s advisable to research the zones beforehand, as some are known for higher lion sightings. Ensure you arrive at least 30 minutes before your slot to complete the formalities and get ready for your adventure.

The Safari Experience: The safari itself is a thrilling ride through the dense forests, open grasslands, and rugged terrain of Gir. The natural beauty of the park is captivating, with its diverse flora and fauna. Along with lions, the park is home to leopards, spotted deer, wild boars, jackals, peacocks, and a variety of bird species. The guide and driver accompanying you provide insightful information about the park and its inhabitants, enriching your experience.

Tips for Lion Sighting: The highlight of the Gir Safari is undoubtedly the chance to see Asiatic Lions in their natural habitat. To maximize your chances of a lion sighting, politely insist that your guide and safari driver prioritize lion tracking during the ride. The guides are well-trained and have excellent knowledge of the lions' movements and resting spots. If you are willing and can afford it, offering a reasonable tip to the guide or driver for their extra effort can often encourage them to go the extra mile in ensuring a lion sighting.

Seeing a lion in the wild is a truly marvelous and awe-inspiring experience—their regal demeanor, powerful strides, and majestic presence leave visitors spellbound. Whether it's a lion basking in the morning sun or moving gracefully through the forest, the moment is one you’ll cherish forever.

Facilities and Management: The park is well-maintained, with clear pathways and organized entry and exit points. The vehicles used for the safari are sturdy and comfortable. Basic facilities like washrooms and small refreshment stalls are available near the entry gate. Photography enthusiasts should bring a good zoom lens to capture the wildlife from a...

Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, India, is a world-renowned wildlife sanctuary and the last refuge of the majestic Asiatic lion. Spread across 1,412 square kilometers, this park offers a unique blend of biodiversity and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

The highlight of Gir is undoubtedly the Asiatic lion, but the park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can also spot leopards, spotted deer, sambar deer, jackals, hyenas, and a variety of reptiles. Gir is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 300 bird species, including crested serpent eagles, vultures, and Indian pitta. The dense teak forests and grasslands provide a picturesque backdrop to this thriving ecosystem.

Safari Experience

The jeep safaris in Gir are well-organized and offer an exhilarating opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, visitors are taken on a journey through the rugged terrains and forested areas. Early morning safaris are particularly rewarding for wildlife sightings, including the elusive lions.

Conservation Efforts

Gir stands as a testament to successful wildlife conservation. Once on the brink of extinction, the population of Asiatic lions has steadily increased due to dedicated efforts by the government and local communities. The sanctuary also focuses on educating visitors about the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem.

Accessibility and Amenities

Gir National Park is easily accessible from major cities like Junagadh, Rajkot, and Ahmedabad. The nearby Sasan Gir village offers a range of accommodations, from budget lodges to luxury resorts. The park has a well-maintained visitor center, offering insights into its history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gir is between December and March, when the weather is pleasant, and animal sightings are more frequent. The park remains closed during the monsoon season (June to mid-October).

Final Thoughts

Gir National Park is not just a destination; it’s an experience that immerses you in the wild and showcases the delicate balance of nature. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to witness the majestic Asiatic lion and explore one of India’s most...