Roaring across Gujarat’s rugged Kathiawar peninsula like a living emblem of royalty, Gir National Park stands as the planet’s sole sanctuary for the Asiatic lion, a 1,412-sq-km UNESCO-recognized wilderness where 674 lions (2025 census) prowl amid dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and seven rivers. Located at 150–530m elevation in Junagadh district, this former hunting ground of Nawabs, established in 1965, captivates with its lion safaris and Maldhari tribal coexistence. A regal stronghold akin to Jubilee Park’s urban oasis, Gir enchants with its leopard sightings and Devalia Safari Park. For visitors to indiatourisminfo.com, it offers a thrilling wildlife odyssey, from tracking prides to stargazing in eco-camps. With 2025 electric safaris and the Gir Lion Festival, this “Jewel of Gujarat” is an unmissable destination for safari enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking Gujarat’s wild soul.
Key Attractions
Sasan Gir Core Zone: Prime lion habitat with 13 safari routes.
Devalia Safari Park: 4-sq-km enclosed area for guaranteed lion sightings.
Kamleshwar Dam: “Lifeline of Gir,” a crocodile-filled reservoir.
Kankai Mata Temple: Hilltop shrine inside the park, revered by locals.
Gir Interpretation Zone: Museum on lion ecology and conservation.
Tulshishyam Hot Springs: Natural thermal pools 40 km away.
Maldhari Ness: Tribal settlements showcasing pastoral life.
Things to Do
Jeep Safari in Core Zone: Track lions at dawn/dusk (Oct–Jun, ~₹4000–6000).
Visit Devalia Park: 45-min bus safari for beginners (~₹150–200).
Birdwatching at Kamleshwar: Spot 300+ species like vultures (Nov–Mar).
Trek to Kankai Temple: 2-km forest walk with lion sightings (~₹500 guide).
Stay in Eco-Camps: Overnight in luxury tents with tribal cuisine (~₹5000–10000).
Attend Gir Lion Festival: Cultural shows and conservation talks (Feb 14–16, 2026).
Photography at Waterholes: Capture lions drinking at sunset.
Savor Gujarati Thali: Relish dhokla, undhiyu at Sasan lodges.
Local Culture and History
Gir, once the private hunting reserve of Junagadh Nawabs, became a sanctuary in 1965 after lion numbers fell to 20. The Maldhari tribe lives in 54 nesses, herding cattle in harmony with predators. Local culture thrives with Garba during Navratri and dandiya dances. The 2025 electric safari fleet, noted by Gujarat Forest Dept and X posts, reduces carbon footprint. Gir’s blend of royal legacy, tribal symbiosis, and conservation success crafts a unique wildlife narrative.
Best Time to Visit
Open Oct 16–Jun 15, with December to March (winter, 10–25°C) ideal for safaris, birdwatching, and Lion Festival (Feb 14–16, 2026). October to November offers pleasant weather. April to June (summer, 30–45°C) increases lion sightings at waterholes. June 16–Oct 15 closed for monsoon. Book safaris 3 months ahead.
How to Reach
By Air: Rajkot Airport (160 km, ~3-hour drive). Taxis ~₹3000–5000.
By Train: Sasan Gir Railway Station (1 km) or Junagadh (60 km). Autos ~₹50–150.
By Road: Via NH151 from Rajkot (160 km, 3 hours). GSRTC buses (~₹200–400), taxis (~₹3500–6000). Parking at Sasan (~₹50).
Local Transport: Forest jeeps (~₹4000–6000); no private vehicles in core.
Travel Tips
Booking: Safari via girlion.in (~₹4000–6000); book 90 days early.
Cost: Food ~₹150–400; taxi from Rajkot ~₹3000–5000; lodges ~₹3000–12000/night.
Dress: Earth tones; hats/binoculars; sturdy shoes.
Safety: Stay in vehicle; follow guides; no night walks.
Respect Local Culture: Silence in Maldhari areas; no photos without permission.
Connectivity: Mobile patchy; Wi-Fi at lodges; carry cash.
Environment: No plastic; use bins.
Accessibility: Safari jeeps accessible; inform for assistance.
Nearby Attractions
Somnath Temple (45 km): Jyotirlinga on Arabian Sea.
Girnar Hills (60 km): Jain temples with 10,000 steps.
Diu Island (110 km): Portuguese fort and beaches.
Una Veraval (70 km): Fishing port and beaches.
Junagadh Fort (60 km): Uparkot with Buddhist caves.
Explore More
Discover other Gujarat treasures like the sacred Somnath or wild Blackbuck National Park on our Gujarat destinations page. Plan your lion safari with indiatourisminfo.com today!
