Planning a Wildlife Safari in Gir National Park: Everything You Need to Know

A wildlife safari in Gir National Park is a thrilling adventure for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Known as the last abode of the majestic Asiatic lion, Gir is not just a destination; it’s an unforgettable experience that immerses you in the raw, untamed beauty of nature. If you’re planning your trip, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your wildlife safari in Gir National Park memorable, safe, and successful.

About Gir National Park

Located in the western state of Gujarat, Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (also known as Sasan Gir) was established in 1965 and covers over 1,400 square kilometers of dry deciduous forest, grasslands, and rocky hills. The park is world-renowned as the only place outside Africa where lions roam freely in the wild.

But Gir is not just about lions. It is home to more than 400 species of plants, 2,000 species of insects, 300 species of birds, and 40 species of mammals, including leopards, hyenas, jackals, antelopes, crocodiles, and more.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to plan a wildlife safari in Gir National Park is between mid-October and mid-June, with December to March being the most pleasant and popular months due to comfortable temperatures and increased chances of wildlife sightings. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from mid-June to mid-October.

How to Reach Gir National Park

• By Air: The nearest airport is Keshod (around 40 km away), but better connectivity is available from Rajkot (160 km) or Diu (100 km).
  
  

• By Train: Junagadh (65 km) and Veraval (40 km) are the closest railway stations with good connections to major cities in Gujarat.
  
  

• By Road: The park is well connected by roads from Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and other parts of Gujarat. Buses, taxis, and rental cars are available for travel.
  
  

Safari Types and Booking Process

The main attraction is the Jeep Safari, which offers the best chance of spotting lions and exploring the interiors of the park.

• Safari Timings: Safaris are conducted three times a day—early morning, late morning, and afternoon.
  
  

• Duration: Each safari lasts approximately 3 hours.
  
  

• Booking: Online booking is recommended and can be done through the official Gir Forest Department website. Early bookings (at least a month in advance during peak season) are advisable due to high demand.
  
  

Documents Required:

• Valid government-issued photo ID
  
  

• Safari permit
  
  

• Safari charges (vehicle, guide, and entry fee)
  
  

Note: Passport is mandatory for foreign nationals.

Zones in the Park

Gir is divided into multiple tourism zones:

1. Gir Jungle Trail (Core Area) – Requires advance permits and is the best for lion sightings.
   
   

2. Devalia Safari Park (Interpretation Zone) – A fenced area offering a quicker and more guaranteed glimpse of lions and other animals in a semi-natural setting.
   
   

For first-timers or those short on time, Devalia Safari is a good option, but for an authentic experience, the Gir Jungle Trail is recommended.

Wildlife You Can Spot

The highlight of any wildlife safari in Gir National Park is the Asiatic Lion, but other notable animals include:

• Leopards
  
  

• Striped Hyenas
  
  

• Golden Jackals
  
  

• Chinkaras (Indian gazelle)
  
  

• Nilgai (Blue Bull)
  
  

• Sambar and Spotted Deer
  
  

• Crocodiles (in Kamleshwar Dam)
  
  

• Over 300 bird species, including Indian eagle-owl, crested serpent eagle, paradise flycatcher, and painted storks
  
  

Where to Stay

Accommodation options near the park range from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Some popular choices include:

• The Fern Gir Forest Resort
  
  

• Woods at Sasan
  
  

• Gir Lion’s Paw Resort
  
  

• Gir Jungle Lodge
  
  

Staying closer to the park entrance at Sasan Gir will reduce travel time to safari entry points.

Tips for a Successful Safari

1. Book in Advance: Especially in peak season, permits and accommodations fill quickly.
   
   

2. Wear Earthy Colors: Avoid bright colors; wear browns, greens, and greys to blend into the surroundings.
   
   

3. Carry Binoculars & Cameras: A zoom lens is helpful for wildlife photography.
   
   

4. Follow Rules & Guides: Stay silent, don’t litter, and never get down from the jeep.
   
   

5. Morning Safaris Are Best: Animals are most active during early hours.
   
   

Local Attractions Around Gir

If time permits, explore nearby attractions such as:

• Somnath Temple – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, located about 50 km away.
  
  

• Junagadh Fort and Uparkot – Rich in history and just a short drive from Gir.
  
  

• Diu Island – A scenic coastal retreat with beaches and Portuguese heritage, 100 km away.
  
  

Conservation and Responsible Tourism

The Gir ecosystem is fragile, and the survival of Asiatic lions depends heavily on continued conservation efforts. Responsible tourism—like not disturbing animals, following park rules, and avoiding plastic—plays a crucial role in maintaining the park's delicate balance.

The forest department also engages local communities in eco-tourism initiatives, which helps both conservation and local livelihoods.

Final Thoughts

A wildlife safari in Gir National Park is more than just a journey into the wild—it's a chance to witness a rare species in its natural habitat, explore a unique landscape, and support a vital conservation effort. With the right planning, respectful behavior, and a sense of adventure, your trip to Gir can become one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.