Safari guide to Gir National Park. Credit: X/NarendraModi
Looking for an adventure like no other? Wildlife safaris are the perfect experience to call your own, one that feeds your adventurous side in a unique way. While tiger safaris abound in India, there is only one reserve that is the natural domain of lions, outside of Africa. The jewel in Gujarat’s crown, and located midway between Veraval and Junagadh, this 1,412 sq km sanctuary is home to the majestic Asiatic lion – Gir National Park.
History of Gir National Park
Once roaming freely across vast swathes of Asia, the number of Asians Lions in India In the 19th century, the Asiatic lion population began to decline alarmingly due to rampant hunting. Indian princely states, often at the behest of British colonial officials, organised lavish hunting expeditions that decimated wildlife populations. By the end of the century, the Asiatic lion was on the brink of extinction, with only a handful of individuals surviving within the confines of Gir Forest, a private hunting preserve of the Nawab of Junagarh, Sir Muhammad Mahabat Khanji III. He took it upon himself to protect the lions and dedicated large tracts of forests in Gir to this cause. The creation of the Gir Forest National Park in 1965 was the next crucial step in safeguarding this magnificent predator.
Gir National Park Safari Zones and Permits
To experience the magic of Gir, visitors can embark on thrilling jeep safaris within the park. Unlike other national parks, Gir has no zones, but 13 routes, which are randomly assigned to jeeps. Devalia Interpretation Zone: If you don’t want to take any chances, Gir has a section called Devalia Safari Park, a fenced part of the sanctuary where bus safaris guarantee a glimpse of this wild paradise. Here, you and your children can explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from dry deciduous forests to grasslands, and have the chance to spot leopards, antelopes and a host of bird species.
You can buy the permit from the official website of the Gujarat government, but it is best to book it at least 60 to 90 days in advance. An e-permit costs around INR 1000 and is valid for 6 people in a jeep.
The permit does not include the guide and safari vehicle fee, which has to be paid separately to the respective guides and safari vehicle owners. The guide fee is Rs. 400 and the safari vehicle fee varies depending on the vehicle: Type A: 3500/- (new 6-seater safari vehicle); 4500/- (new comfortable 8-seater safari vehicle); Type B: 2000/- (old 6-seater safari vehicle).
Beyond the lion
Although the lion steals the show, Gir is home to a variety of wildlife. Sambar and spotted deer, chital deer, nilgai and wild boar are common sights. Bird watchers will delight in the presence of peacocks, partridges and various birds of prey.
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Gir National Park is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife is most active.
How to reach Gir National Park
Gir is well connected by roads.
Airport: Rajkot Airport (4 hours drive).
Train stations: Junagadh and Veraval (2 hours drive)
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this post is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the post for any purpose.
We respect the intellectual property rights of content creators. If you are the owner of any material featured on our website and have concerns about its use, please contact us. We are committed to addressing any copyright issues promptly and will remove any material within 2 days of receiving a request from the rightful owner.