Gir National Park in Gujarat, India, is the last refuge of the Asiatic lion and a vital biodiversity hotspot, encompassing a diverse array of ecosystems from dry scrubland to evergreen forests. It offers a unique wildlife experience with its rich flora and fauna, including numerous species of birds, reptiles, and other mammals.
1,412 km2
Dry Deciduous Forest with Teak Vegetation
Asiatic Lion, Hyena, Leopard, Wild Boar, Grey Mongoose, Sambar Deer
Indian Vulture, Painted Stork, Serpent Eagle, Brown Fish Owl, White-Bellied Drongo
Gir National Park, located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, is the last refuge of the majestic Asiatic lion. Established in 1965, this national park and wildlife sanctuary spans approximately 1,412 square kilometers, offering a unique blend of dry deciduous forests, scrublands, savannahs, and rocky hills. Renowned for its thriving lion population, Gir is a critical conservation success story, drawing wildlife enthusiasts and researchers worldwide.
The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, boasting over 400 plant species, 500 bird species, and numerous reptiles and insects. Among the notable inhabitants are leopards, sloth bears, striped hyenas, and various deer species. The perennial and seasonal rivers, along with dams and reservoirs, support this rich biodiversity.
Gir’s landscape is characterized by teak forests interspersed with grasslands and scrub forests, creating a picturesque and varied habitat. The park’s ecological significance extends beyond the lions, playing a vital role in preserving the region’s overall biodiversity.
Visitors to Gir can enjoy guided jeep safaris, offering close encounters with wildlife and the park’s stunning natural beauty. The local Maldhari herdsmen also add to the cultural tapestry of the region, living harmoniously within the park’s boundaries.
When you book with Into The Wild, our packages usually include the following (can vary based on individual client requirements):
Our packages do not include the following, unless separately requested for:
The nearest airport is Diu Airport, located approximately 110 kilometers away. Regular flights operate from major cities like Mumbai, from where our pre-booked vehicle can drive you to your hotel near the park. Alternatively, Rajkot Airport, about 160 kilometers from Gir, is another option with better connectivity to other parts of India.
The nearest railway station is Junagadh Junction, situated around 65 kilometers from Gir National Park. Junagadh is well-connected to major cities like Ahmedabad and Rajkot. From Junagadh, we can arrange for an air-conditioned vehicle that will transport you to your hotel. Another nearby station is Veraval, about 45 kilometers away, which also offers good connectivity to various parts of Gujarat and neighboring states.
This is an indicative itinerary of your wildlife adventure and can be personalized as per your requirements. Reach out to us for a customized tour package.
Gir National Park is the only place in the world where the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) can be found in the wild. The park has successfully conserved this endangered species, which had once been on the brink of extinction. As of recent counts, the lion population in Gir has been steadily increasing, showcasing a major conservation success story.
At Into The Wild, we believe in providing our guests with only the finest luxury accommodations. To ensure this, our dedicated team personally visits each property, staying there to experience every detail firsthand. This commitment to quality guarantees that the accommodations we recommend meet our stringent standards for comfort, luxury, and service.
Our founder, Akshay Gurnani, alongside a robust network of seasoned professionals, meticulously evaluates each location, from its amenities to the surrounding natural beauty. This hands-on approach reassures our customers that they will enjoy an unparalleled stay, immersing themselves in the tranquility and splendor of nature without sacrificing any comfort.
We take pride in offering a curated selection of properties that promise not only a luxurious retreat but also an unforgettable journey into the wild.
We are also constantly seeking to expand our list of accommodation partners, ensuring that our customers have a diverse array of options to choose from. By continually adding new hotels & resorts, we can offer fresh and unique experiences tailored to the preferences and desires of our guests.
The best time to visit Gir National Park is from December to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant and ideal for wildlife viewing. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
Winter (December to March): This is the most favorable time to visit Gir National Park. The temperatures are cool and comfortable, ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), making it ideal for safaris. The winter season offers the best conditions for spotting the Asiatic lions and other wildlife.
Summer (April to June): While temperatures can soar up to 45°C (113°F), summer is also a good time for wildlife sightings. As water sources dry up, animals, including the Asiatic lions, gather around the remaining waterholes, increasing the chances of spotting them. Early morning and late afternoon safaris are recommended to avoid the midday heat.
Monsoon (July to November): Gir National Park remains closed from mid-June to mid-October due to heavy rainfall. The monsoon season rejuvenates the forest, but the park is not accessible to visitors during this period.
Therefore, planning your visit between December and March will ensure the best experience at Gir National Park, offering optimal weather and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Gir National Park, known for its Asiatic lions, is divided into several safari zones, each accessible through specific gates. The main zones and their respective gates are:
1. Gir Jungle Trail (Core Area):
Sinh Sadan Gate (Sasan Gir): The primary and most popular entry gate, providing access to the core area of the park where lion sightings are frequent.
2. Devaliya Safari Park (Interpretation Zone):
Devaliya Gate: This zone is a fenced area offering a safari experience that guarantees sightings of lions and other wildlife in a shorter duration.
3. Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary:
Girnar Gate: Provides access to the hilly terrain of the Girnar region, which is rich in biodiversity and offers a different wildlife experience.
4. Kankai Safari Zone:
Kankai Gate: Known for its scenic beauty and the Kankai Mata temple, this zone offers a more peaceful and less crowded safari experience.
5. Tulsishyam Zone:
Tulsishyam Gate: This zone is famous for its hot springs and ancient temples, along with wildlife sightings.
Each zone in Gir National Park offers a unique experience, and it’s advisable to book safaris in advance to ensure entry through your preferred gate.
For Indian citizens, any of the following identity proofs is acceptable:
i. Voter Photo identity card issued by Election Commission of India
ii. Passport PAN Card issued by Income Tax Department
iii. Driving License issued by RTO
iv. Photo identity card having serial number issued by Central/State Government
v. Aadhaar Card
For foreigners, only passport is accepted as ID Proof.
When preparing for a trip to Gir National Park, it’s essential to pack the following items for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
Clothing:
Summer Months:
– Lightweight, long-sleeved t-shirts/shirts and pants for protection against insects, sunburn and thorny vegetation.
– Cap/Floppy Hat with a brim to shield your face from the sun
Winter Months:
– Warm, layered clothing (thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, sweaters) to combat chilly mornings and evenings
– Thermal socks
– Gloves, scarf and beanie to protect against cold winds
– Face buff for protection from dust during all months
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Personal Gear:
– Sunscreen with a high SPF
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Neutral-coloured clothing (grey, brown, green). Avoid bright colours such as red, orange, blue, white, etc.
– Sports shoes or any comfortable, closed footwear for safaris
– Insect repellent
– Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
– A lightweight, comfortable backpack to carry essentials during safaris
– Binoculars for wildlife viewing
– DSLR Camera, a telephoto lens along with extra batteries
– Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries (incase of night safari)
Additionally for winter months:
– Hand warmers for added comfort during early morning safaris.
– Lip balm and moisturiser to prevent dryness due to cold weather
Documents and Essentials:
– Valid identification such as PAN, Aadhar or Driver’s licence
– Cash (Rs. 100/200/500 denominations) for souvenirs, tips, and contingencies
Snacks and Water:
– The hotel will provide water bottles in insulated boxes. Consider carrying effervescent tablets such as Fast&Up for additional hydration.
– Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits or other non-perishable snacks for quick energy during safaris
Personal Hygiene Items:
– Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for cleaning hands
– Tissues or toilet paper
– Biodegradable soap
Optional Items:
– Portable charger or power bank for recharging electronics
– Travel pillow for comfort during long drives
– Travel umbrella for sun or rain protection
– Portable or collapsible water bottle
The safari park timings at Gir National Park are as follows:
These timings may vary slightly based on the season and weather conditions, so it is always advisable to check the official timings before planning your visit.
Gir National Park is closed from June 16 to October 15 each year. This period is designated as the monsoon season when the park remains shut to visitors to allow the environment to rejuvenate and to ensure the safety of both the animals and the visitors.
Sasan Gir and Gir National Park are often used interchangeably, but they refer to slightly different things:
Gir National Park:
Gir National Park, also known as Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, is the protected area where the Asiatic lions reside. It encompasses approximately 1,412 square kilometers and includes the core area (Gir National Park) and the buffer area (Gir Wildlife Sanctuary). This is the official name of the reserve dedicated to wildlife conservation and tourism.
Sasan Gir:
Sasan Gir is the name of the main village and the entry point to Gir National Park. It is where the park’s headquarters are located, along with various tourist facilities such as accommodation, safari booking offices, and guides. Visitors typically start their safari tours from Sasan Gir.
In summary, Gir National Park refers to the entire protected area dedicated to the conservation of Asiatic lions, while Sasan Gir refers specifically to the village and administrative hub that serves as the primary access point to the park.
As of the latest census in 2020, the lion population in Gir National Park and its surrounding areas is approximately 674 lions. This includes both adult lions and cubs, reflecting a positive trend in the conservation efforts for the Asiatic lion. The population has shown a steady increase over the years, thanks to the dedicated efforts of conservationists and the Gujarat Forest Department.
Gir National Park is not home to any tigers. It is famous for being the last refuge of the Asiatic lions. While Gir National Park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, deer, antelope and numerous bird species, tigers are not found in this region. If you are looking to see tigers, you would need to visit other tiger reserves in India, such as Ranthambore, Bandhavgarh or Tadoba.
Private vehicles are not allowed inside Gir National Park for safaris. Visitors must use authorized park vehicles, which are accompanied by trained guides. These official safari vehicles are designed to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife while providing an optimal viewing experience. Booking a safari through the park’s official channels will provide access to these vehicles and the expertise of knowledgeable guides.
