Posted 21 June 2023 in To the wild

Have you ever been on a wildlife safari, or, seen a lion within few feet away from you? At Gir National Park you will. But what makes this park famous? It is known for its population of Asiatic lions, which are an endangered species and only found here.

Gir National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Gujarat. The park covers an area of about 1412 square kilometres and is home to a variety of other wildlife species as well, such as Indian leopards, spotted deer, sambar deer, chital, nilgai, four-horned antelope, wild boar, and Indian gazelle among others.

The park was established in 1965 and was initially set up to protect the remaining population of Asiatic lions, which had been hunted to near extinction. Today, the park is one of the most important protected areas for this species, with a population of around 500 individuals. Visitors to Gir National Park can enjoy wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and nature walks.

How to plan for the safari in Gir National Park?

To enter the forest, you need to book a wildlife safari, and it is best done in advance. You can get the safari permits for Gir National Park at girlion.gujarat.gov.in.

To book a wildlife safari for Gir, you require certain things based on what type of safari you take.

Gypsy Permit Charges

• The gypsy permit will cost INR 800 for Indian and INR 5600 for foreigners during the weekdays
• During the weekends, the gypsy permit will cost INR 1000 for Indian and INR 7000 for foreigners

During winter season (October to Feburary) the park is open Monday to Sunday from 6:30 AM to 12:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. And during the summer season (March to June), the park is open Monday to Sunday from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Devalia Park Bus Safari

• The mini bus permit is INR 150 for Indians and INR 2800 for foreigners during the weekdays
• Whereas, it cost INR 900 for Indians and INR 3500 for foreigners during the weekends

Devalia Park Bus Safari is closed on Wednesdays and open on the rest of the days from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Devalia Park Gypsy Safari

• The gypsy permit will cost INR 800 for Indian and INR 5600 for foreigners during the weekdays
• During the weekends, the gypsy permit will cost INR 1000 for Indian and INR 7000 for foreigners

Ambardi Safari Park

• The mini bus permit is INR 150 for Indians and INR 2800 for foreigners during the weekdays
• Whereas, it cost INR 900 for Indians and INR 3500 for foreigners during the weekends

Do make a note that Ambardi Safari Park is closed on every Tuesday.

Girnar Nature Safari

• The gypsy permit will cost INR 800 for Indian and INR 5600 for foreigners during the weekdays
• During the weekends, the gypsy permit will cost INR 1000 for Indian and INR 7000 for foreigners

The safari in Gir National Park can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Visitors can opt for a guided safari tour in an open jeep, which is the best way to explore the park and spot lions in their natural habitat. The park is divided into different zones, and tourists are allowed to visit only certain zones to prevent overcrowding and disturbance to the animals.

During the safari tour, visitors can expect to see not just lions but also other wildlife species such as leopards, deer, antelopes, and many species of birds. The safari tours are conducted twice a day, early morning and late afternoon, and last for about three hours. Visitors are advised to book their safari tour in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.

It is important to note that the park authorities have strict rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both the visitors and the animals. Visitors are not allowed to get down from the jeep or make any loud noises that could disturb animals and are also required to maintain a safe distance from the animals at all times.

Wildlife at Gir National Park: Meet the endangered Asiatic lion

Found solely within the confines of the Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, the Asiatic lion, also referred to as the Indian lion or Persian lion, is a subspecies of lion. It is a distinct population of the African lion and is smaller in size than its African counterparts.

The Asiatic lion was once widespread across the Indian subcontinent but was hunted to near extinction in the 19^th century and by 1900, only about a dozen lions survived in the wild, and they were all found in the Gir forest in Gujarat. Thanks to conservation efforts, the population of Asiatic lions in Gir has since increased, and today there are around 500 individuals in the park.

The Asiatic lion is an important cultural symbol in India and is revered as a powerful and majestic animal. The park authorities also carry out regular monitoring and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term survival of the species. In recent years, there have been efforts to reintroduce the Asiatic lion to other parts of India, but these efforts have been met with some controversy due to concerns about the potential impact on local communities and wildlife populations.

Other attractions to see near Gir National Park

Kamleshwar Dam

Kamleshwar Dam is a popular attraction located within the Gir National Park in Gujarat, India. It is a man-made reservoir that was built in 1959 across the Hiran River to provide water to the nearby areas and wildlife in the park. The dam is named after Kamleshwar village, which is located near the dam. The Kamleshwar Dam has a picturesque location, surrounded by hills and forests, and is a great spot for picnics and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy boating on the reservoir and take in scenic views of it’s surrounding landscape.

The dam is home to a variety of bird species, including waterfowl, egrets, herons, and kingfishers, among others. The best time to visit Kamleshwar Dam is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and birdlife is more active. The dam is easily accessible by road from the nearby cities of Junagadh and Sasan Gir, and visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the dam. Please note that visitors are required to obtain permission from the forest department before visiting the dam.

Here are travel tips

• Plan your trip in advance: Gir National Park is a popular tourist destination, and it is advisable to plan your trip well in advance. Book your safari tour and accommodation in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
• Wear comfortable clothing: The weather in Gir can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Wear light and comfortable clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Carry essentials: Carry essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
• Follow park rules: The park authorities have strict rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both the visitors and the animals. Follow the rules and maintain a safe distance from the animals at all times.
• Hire a guide: Hiring a local guide is advisable, as they have an in-depth knowledge of the park and can help you spot the animals and birds.
• Respect the wildlife: Gir National Park is home to a variety of wildlife species, and it is important to respect their habitat and not disturb them.
• Carry a camera: Gir National Park offers some excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Carry a camera with a zoom lens to capture the wildlife in their natural habitat.

How to Reach?

• Air: The nearest airport to Gir National Park is the Keshod Airport, which is located approximately 90 km away. However, Keshod Airport has limited flight options, so most visitors prefer to fly into the Rajkot Airport, which is located about 160 km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gir National Park.
• Train: The nearest railway station to Gir National Park is the Veraval Railway Station, which is located approximately 40 km away. Veraval Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and other parts of India. From the station you may take a taxi to the park.
• Road: Gir National Park is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat by road. You can rent a safari or even use your own vehicle for a safari tour in the park however, it has to be an amendable petrol Euro 3 vehicle.

When is the best time to visit?

• The best time to visit Gir National Park is December through April when the weather is cooler and animals are more active. Please make note that the national park is closed from 16th June through 15th October ever year.

Conclusion

Whether you are a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a new and exciting travel experience, taking a safari in Gir National Park is an adventure that's sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready to explore the wildlife of Gujarat's Gir National Park.

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