10 FAQS on Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Sasan Gir, is a wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat, India. It was established in 1965 and is renowned for being the sole home of the Asiatic lions. Covering an area of 1,412 square kilometers (545 sq mi), it encompasses a diverse ecosystem with a variety of flora and fauna.
Gir National Park is located in the state of Gujarat, in the western part of India. It is situated near the Sasan village in the Junagadh district.
The best time to visit Gir National Park is from December to March, as the weather is pleasantly cool. The park remains open for tourists from mid-October to mid-June, and is closed during the remaining months due to the monsoon season.
Apart from the acclaimed Asiatic lions, Gir National Park is home to a variety of wildlife including leopards, jungle cats, hyenas, Indian mongooses, sloth bears, Indian palm civets, and several species of deer like chital, sambar, and nilgai. The park also supports a rich birdlife with over 300 species of birds, including the critically endangered white-backed and long-billed vultures.
Yes, Gir National Park offers safari tours that allow visitors to explore the sanctuary and spot Asiatic lions and other wildlife in their natural habitat. These safari tours are conducted in open jeeps accompanied by guides and need to be booked in advance.
Safari bookings can be made online through the official Gujarat tourism website or at the Sinh Sadan Orientation Centre at Sasan Gir. It is advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure availability.
There are various accommodation options near Sasan Gir ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Forest lodges operated by the Gujarat State Forest Department also provide comfortable lodging within the vicinity of the park.
The entry fees for Gir safari vary depending on the nationality of visitors (Indian or foreign), the type of vehicle used for the safari, and the number of individuals in a group. Detailed information on the most current rates can be obtained from the official Gir National Park website or upon inquiry at the park's booking counter.
Visitors are expected to follow a strict code of conduct which includes not disturbing the wildlife, not littering within the park, and adhering to the designated safari routes and timings. The use of loudspeakers and playing of music are prohibited to ensure minimal disturbance to the animals.
The area surrounding Gir National Park hosts several attractions such as the Kamleshwar Dam, known for its crocodile population, and the Devalia Safari Park, which is an enclosed area of the sanctuary that provides a quicker overview of the wildlife for those short on time. Additionally, the ancient Somnath Temple and the beach town of Diu are popular nearby destinations for tourists.
