About the Park

Located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (also known as Sasan Gir) is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions roam free in the wild. Spread over 1,412 sq km, Gir is a dry deciduous forest of teak, acacia, and flame trees, interspersed with rocky hills and river systems.

Established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1965, Gir became a national park in 1975 and stands as one of India’s greatest conservation success stories. Once nearly extinct, the Asiatic lion population has recovered remarkably under strong protection and community support.

Wildlife & Habitat

Gir’s ecosystem is dry yet thriving, supporting an incredible variety of species.

  • Key Species: Asiatic lion, leopard, hyena, jackal, nilgai, chital, sambar, and four-horned antelope.
  • Notable Sightings: Lions are the star attraction here, often seen resting under trees or walking along dusty trails. Gir also has one of India’s highest leopard densities.
  • Birdlife: Over 300 species of birds – including the crested serpent eagle, paradise flycatcher, and painted stork – make Gir a delight for birders.
  • Habitat: A mix of dry deciduous forest, thorn scrub, and grasslands nourished by rivers like Hiran, Datardi, and Shingoda.

Safari Experience

Gir offers structured, well-managed safaris with high chances of lion sightings.

  • Safari Type: Jeep Safari (open 6-seater vehicles with registered guides).
  • Safari Zones:
    • Gir National Park (Core Zone): The main area for lion safaris.
    • Devalia Interpretation Zone: Also called the “Mini Gir,” this fenced area offers a quicker, guaranteed glimpse of lions and other species – ideal for short visits.
  • Timings:
    • Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
    • Midday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    • Evening: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (Timings vary slightly by season.)
  • Bookings: Online through the Gujarat Forest Department website or at the Sinh Sadan Interpretation Centre in Sasan Gir. Advance booking is strongly recommended.

Best Time to Visit

  • Open Season: Mid-October to Mid-June.
  • Best Months: December to April – comfortable weather and active wildlife.
  • Summer (April – June): Hot, but the best time for lion and leopard sightings near waterholes.
  • Monsoon (July – September): Park remains closed for breeding and maintenance.

How to Reach

  • Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (110 km) or Rajkot Airport (165 km).
  • Nearest Railway Station: Junagadh (65 km) or Veraval (43 km).
  • By Road: Good road connectivity from Junagadh, Rajkot, Somnath, and Ahmedabad (360 km). Taxis and buses are easily available.

Where to Stay

  • Inside/near Sasan Gir
    • The Fern Gir Forest Resort: Upscale eco-lodge with forest views.
    • Woods at Sasan: Luxury wellness retreat blending nature and comfort.
    • Gir Jungle Lodge: Mid-range resort known for hospitality and guided safaris.
    • Sinh Sadan Guesthouse: Government-run accommodation, affordable and close to the booking office.
  • Most lodges arrange safaris, village visits, and nature walks with trained naturalists.

Travel Tips / Park Rules

  • Carry original photo ID for all safari visitors.
  • Book safari permits in advance – slots fill up quickly.
  • Maintain silence during safaris; avoid playing music or loud talking.
  • Wear neutral-colored clothing; avoid bright colors.
  • Do not litter, feed animals, or get off the vehicle.
  • Keep cameras ready – lion sightings can happen unexpectedly.
  • Carry cash; ATMs are limited in the area.

Packing List

  • Cotton clothes in earthy tones
  • Light jacket (for winter mornings)
  • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Camera with zoom lens
  • Binoculars
  • Insect repellent
  • Water bottle and light snacks
  • ID proofs and printed permits

Visitor Statistics

Gir National Park welcomes around 400,000 – 500,000 visitors annually, making it one of India’s most visited wildlife reserves. Most visitors enter through Sasan Gir, where the forest department’s safari headquarters and most lodges are located.

Conservation & Responsible Travel

Gir’s conservation story is a benchmark for wildlife recovery in India.

  • The Asiatic lion population has grown from about 180 in 1974 to over 670 in recent counts (2020s).
  • Local Maldhari communities have coexisted with lions for generations and play a vital role in the park’s protection.
  • The Gujarat Forest Department runs extensive monitoring, rescue, and awareness programs.

    To travel responsibly

    • Respect forest rules and wildlife viewing distances.
    • Choose eco-friendly lodges that support local employment.
    • Avoid plastic waste and single-use bottles.
    • Support community-run souvenir shops and local artisans.