| Price (Indian) | INR 8000 / - Jeep ( Maximum 6 Persons & 2 children (b/w - 5 to 12 years) are allowed in ONE Jeep) |
| Price (Foreigner) | INR 12000 / Jeep ( Maximum 6 Persons & 2 children (b/w - 5 to 12 years) are allowed in ONE Jeep ) |
| Zones | Best Available |
| Timings | Morning 6:00 AM - 9.00 AM | Evening 1:30 PM - 5:00 PM (Safari Timing Varies as Season Changes) |
| Inclusions | Permissions, Jeep, Driver, Permit and All Entries & Taxes. * Guide Fee to be paid by the guest on the spot directly. * Pick & drop is not included from hotels. |
Gir National Park is a jewel of Indian wildlife and a dream destination for nature and adventure lovers. Nestled in the western state of Gujarat, this sanctuary is globally renowned as the last stronghold of the Asiatic lion.
Gir National Park, officially known as Sasan Gir, is not just a wildlife sanctuary; it is a symbol of India’s commitment to conservation and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Asiatic lion. Situated in Gujarat, Gir has transformed over the years from being a hunting ground to becoming one of the world’s most successful wildlife conservation stories.
The history of Gir dates back to the 19th century when it served as the hunting grounds of the Nawabs of Junagadh. During this period, overhunting and habitat destruction had driven the Asiatic lion to the brink of extinction. By the early 20th century, only about 12 Asiatic lions remained in the wild, all of them within the Gir Forest region.
Recognizing the dire situation, Nawab Sir Muhammad Rasul Khanji Babi, the then ruler of Junagadh, took the first step toward conservation. He declared the Gir Forest a protected area in 1900, restricting hunting and promoting the lion’s survival.
After India gained independence, the government of Gujarat took over the responsibility of preserving Gir. In 1965, Gir was officially designated as a wildlife sanctuary, and later a core area of 258 square kilometers was declared as a national park in 1975.
Gir’s conservation journey has been nothing short of miraculous. Project Lion, modeled after the success of Project Tiger, focused on habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and local community involvement. Today, Gir is home to over 600 Asiatic lions, a remarkable recovery from the brink of extinction.
The Maldhari tribes, who have lived in harmony with Gir’s ecosystem for centuries, played a vital role in its conservation. Known as “cattle herders,” they share a symbiotic relationship with the forest and its wildlife. Over time, the Gujarat Forest Department has worked to resettle Maldhari families in a way that preserves their way of life while minimizing human-wildlife conflict.
Gir National Park spans a total area of 1,412 square kilometers, including the Gir Wildlife Sanctuary and surrounding buffer zones. The terrain is diverse, comprising dry deciduous forests, scrublands, grasslands, and rocky hills. Seasonal rivers and water bodies, such as the Hiran, Shetrunji, and Machhundri, flow through the park, supporting its rich biodiversity.
The park is divided into several safari zones to manage tourism and conservation effectively:
Gir’s unique location and climatic conditions make it a thriving hotspot of biodiversity. The park is home to a delicate balance of predators, prey, and plant life, making it a fascinating ecological system.
The Asiatic lion is Gir’s crown jewel and the main reason visitors flock to the park. Slightly smaller than its African counterpart, the Asiatic lion has a less pronounced mane and a stronger build. Gir is the only place on Earth where this majestic species can be seen in the wild.
In addition to lions, Gir is home to:
Gir is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 300 species of birds. Some notable species include:
Gir also supports a thriving population of reptiles, including:
The flora of Gir is dominated by dry deciduous trees and thorny scrub vegetation, typical of the semi-arid climate. Over 400 plant species are found here, including:
Gir National Park, officially known as Sasan Gir, was established in 1965 as a wildlife sanctuary to protect the endangered Asiatic lions. Spread across 1,412 square kilometers, the park is a mesmerizing blend of dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and rugged terrain. Over time, it has become a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and families looking for an adventurous getaway.
Why is Gir Famous?
The nearest airport is Keshod Airport, around 70 km away, offering limited connectivity. For better options, you can fly into Rajkot Airport (160 km) or Diu Airport (110 km). From there, you can hire a taxi or book a private transfer.
The closest railway station is Junagadh Junction, located about 55 km from the park. Regular trains from major Indian cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Mumbai make it an accessible option.
Gir is well-connected by road, and you can easily drive or hire a cab from nearby cities. Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) buses also operate to Gir from major hubs like Junagadh, Ahmedabad, and Rajkot.
Gir offers multiple safari options tailored to different preferences. Each provides a unique opportunity to explore the park’s wildlife and scenic beauty.
The most popular option, Jeep Safaris, are conducted in an open 4×4 vehicle. Each jeep can accommodate six visitors along with a driver and guide. These safaris are perfect for getting up close to the lions and capturing stunning wildlife photographs.
Ideal for larger groups, Canter Safaris use mini-buses with a seating capacity of 15-20 people. Though less intimate than jeep safaris, they are budget-friendly and still offer good chances of spotting lions.
Offered by providers like Eagle Safaris, Premium Safaris come with added benefits such as exclusive routes, private guides, and customized itineraries. These safaris are perfect for those seeking a luxurious and tailored experience.
Booking your Gir Safari online is easy and hassle-free. Follow these steps:
Eagle Safaris stands out as one of the best options for Gir lion safari booking. Here’s why:
Finding the right place to stay can elevate your experience. Here are some great options:
Gir National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering a rare chance to see Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. With its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and world-class safari experiences, Gir is the ultimate destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Whether you opt for a budget-friendly canter safari or a luxurious premium safari with Eagle Safaris, Gir promises memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, book your safari, and get ready to explore the wild side of Gujarat!
