Gir National Park

Gir National Park is the only area in the world outside of African rainforests where one can find gorgeous lions strolling about freely. The park’s whole forest is deciduous and dry, making it the perfect home for Asiatic lions. Leopards are the park’s main draw in addition to lions. Sambar deer, chowsingha (the only four-horned antelope in the world), jackals, India fox, hyenas, and other animals can also be seen. The park also welcomes birdwatchers because it is home to over 200 different kinds of avifauna. The endangered white-backed and long-billed vultures are a couple of the more well-known species.
More than 40 different species of amphibians and reptiles can be found in the woodland. Visit the Kamleshwar reservoir in the sanctuary to see a lot of marsh crocodiles.

More than 40 different species of amphibians and reptiles can be found in the woodland. Visit the Kamleshwar reservoir in the sanctuary to see a lot of marsh crocodiles. The saw-scaled viper, krait, Russell’s viper, and king cobra are a some of the snakes that call this place home.

The park is 1,412 sq km in size, with a core area of roughly 258 sq km. In order to protect the Asiatic lion, it was declared a wildlife sanctuary on September 18, 1965, and is situated roughly 65 km southeast of Junagadh. Although lions were exterminated in other regions of Asia, the indiscriminate hunting practices of the Junagadh community resulted in a decline in lion populations in Gir. The Forest Department took up the role of protecting the lions in their hunting grounds when the Nawabs of Junagadh provided it. The number of lions increased from roughly 20 in 1913 to roughly 523 in 2015.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

April and May are the finest times to visit Gir National Park if you want to truly enjoy the wildlife and take amazing photos. Despite being hot months, April and May are ideal for animal experiences. The best months to visit Gir National Park during the winter are December through March if you want to take advantage of the animal tourism there. It will be the ideal weather for sightseeing. The Gir National Park is still closed from June 16 to October 15.

Gir National Park Opening Dates and Schedule

Gir National Park is closed every year from June 16 to October 15, which is when the southwest monsoon season occurs. The ideal travel seasons are from December to March, when the weather is at its most agreeable. Although it becomes rather warm in April and May, these are known to be the best months to see wildlife and take pictures of it.

Safari Timings

Morning Time: 6.45 am to 9.45am and 8.30am to 11.30am

Evening Time: 3:00pm to 6.00pm

ATTRACTIONS

Kankai Mata Temple: This temple is located in the middle of the jungle and is dedicated to Kankai Mata, who is thought to be the guardian goddess of the shepherds in Gir Forest. It can be an exciting experience to visit, as it is situated in a wild area. In fact, lions can be heard roaring at night! Views of the surrounding lake, where animals congregate to drink from its depths, are available from the property. The Forest Department forbids more than 50 persons from staying at the temple at once, even if devotees are permitted to stay there at night. The temple’s grounds are largely secure and have tall walls. Through the jungle’s branches, you can see the starry, pitch-black sky at night.

Jungle Safari: Gir National Park is the only area in the world outside of African rainforests where one can find gorgeous lions strolling about freely. The park’s whole forest is deciduous and dry, making it the perfect home for Asiatic lions. Leopards are the park’s main draw in addition to lions. Sambar deer, chowsingha (the only four-horned antelope in the world), jackals, India fox, hyenas, and other animals can also be seen. The park also welcomes birdwatchers because it is home to over 200 different kinds of avifauna. The endangered white-backed and long-billed vultures are a couple of the more well-known species. More than 40 different species of amphibians and reptiles can be found in the woodland. Visit the Kamleshwar reservoir in the sanctuary to see a lot of marsh crocodiles.

Tulsishyam Hot Springs: Tulsishyam Hot Springs, which are located in a picturesque location on the Dhari-Una route, are thought to have healing properties. It’s common to observe pilgrims taking a dip in the waters. The Puranas also describe the springs, referring to them as “Taptodak.” The location is called Tulsishyam—Tulsi for Tul and shyam for Lord Krishna—because it is said that Lord Krishna slew a demon named Tul.

Where to Stay

Gir National Park contains lodging facilities, including lodges and resorts.

HOW TO REACH

The Gir National Park is situated 40 km from the Veraval railway station and 65 km from Junagarh. Sasan Gir and Ahmedabad have excellent rail and road connections. Travelers can effortlessly complete a seven-hour travel by road using either private or public transportation. Travelers looking for airline services can fly from Mumbai Airport to Rajkot and Keshod airports. Travelers from Delhi have the option of taking a plane to Ahmedabad and then continuing by car to Gir.

By Flight

The closest airport, Rajkot Airport, is about 170 kilometers from Gir National Park. It’s simple to hail a taxi or cab from the airport.

By Train

Near Gir National Park, the two main railheads are at Junagadh (60 km) and Veraval (45 km).

By Road

Gujarat has convenient access by road. Gir National Park is accessible by bus or cab and is connected to Gujarat’s main cities. You may simply take buses from Veraval and Junagadh to get to the National Park.