Where Nature Roars – Location & Overview
Situated within the Junagadh district of Gujarat, Gir National Park, also referred to as Sasan Gir, is the sole natural home of Asiatic lions worldwide. Spanning a vast area of 1,412 square kilometers, it covers both a core and periphery sanctuary zone and thus is a conserved and crucial area for wildlife preservation.
Gir, founded in 1965, is not only a lion sanctuary, but also a home to a vast variety of wildlife species and plants. It’s a combination of dry deciduous forests, grasslands, rocky hills, and perennial rivers that offer a perfect home to its regal inhabitants.
How to Get There
- By Air: The nearest airport is Keshod Airport, about 45 km away. Rajkot Airport (160 km) is better connected.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Veraval, approximately 40 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road to Junagadh, Somnath, and Rajkot.
Wildlife Galore – What You’ll See
Gir is most famous for being home to the Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica). As of the latest census, 674 lions roam the park freely. But that’s not all:
- Mammals: Indian leopards, striped hyenas, jackals, sambar deer, chinkara, nilgai, wild boar, and Indian pangolins.
- Birds: Over 300 species including eagles, vultures, peafowls, and paradise flycatchers.
- Reptiles: Mugger crocodiles, monitor lizards, cobras, and pythons.
- Insects: Thousands of butterfly and insect species help maintain ecological balance.
What Travelers Can Do
- Jeep Safari
Hop into a 4×4 with a licensed guide and venture deep into the forest in search of lions. Safaris are conducted in three slots: morning, afternoon, and evening. Book online in advance! - Visit Devalia Safari Park
Also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone, this fenced-off area gives a more predictable chance of spotting lions, leopards, deer, and more. - Bird Watching
The best months for birding are December to February when migratory species are in residence. - Tribal Encounters
Interact with the Maldhari and Siddi tribes who reside in and around the forest. Their harmony with nature is both inspiring and enlightening. - Nature Walks
Some eco-zones offer guided nature walks to explore the flora and smaller fauna of Gir.
Where to Stay
Gir has accommodations for every kind of traveler:
- Luxury Resorts: Gir Sarovar, Woods at Sasan, The Fern.
- Mid-Range Lodges: Gir Jungle Lodge, Asiatic Lion Lodge.
- Budget Options: Forest department guest houses, homestays.
Safety & Maintenance
Gir is considered very safe for tourists. Safaris are conducted with strict guidelines, and visitors must be accompanied by forest guides. The Gujarat Forest Department ensures the park is well-maintained with:
- Clean and eco-sensitive infrastructure.
- Regular patrols and monitoring of wildlife.
- Emphasis on conservation education and responsible tourism.
Best Time to Visit
- November to March: Pleasant weather and excellent wildlife sightings.
- April to May: Peak lion-spotting season (though hotter).
- Closed: Mid-June to mid-October due to monsoon.
Travel Tips
- Book safaris early through girforest.in.
- Carry ID for permit verification.
- Wear earthy-toned clothes and avoid strong fragrances.
- Remain silent and follow your guide’s instructions during safaris.
Final Thoughts
Gir National Park is a nature lover’s heaven. It’s not just a place—it’s an experience of seeing the wild, flourishing under the vigilant gaze of conservationists. The lion’s roar, the sound of leaves, and the rich culture make Gir a destination for every serious traveler or nature lover.
