About Gir National Park
The last natural habitat of the Asiatic lion is the famous Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat. It is a dry deciduous forest park with grasslands, rocky hills, seasonal rivers and a variety of wildlife, located in the Saurashtra region. It offers a special chance to see India's wildlife in an environment very unlike the northern and central forests of the country. The sanctuary is especially renowned for the Asiatic lion, which is now the symbol of the Gir landscape. In addition to Lions, the area is also home to leopards, striped hyenas, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, sambar, chital, nilgai, four-horned antelope and many bird species. The forests and adjoining grasslands provide a diverse ecosystem for a wide range of flora and fauna.
Today, Gir is renowned for its wildlife, for photographers and nature lovers. Guests can go on safaris in the forest, see the animals in their natural habitat, and learn about the local wildlife and its habitat. The nearby attractions like Devalia Safari Park, Kamleshwar Dam and Somnath make it possible to combine a wildlife experience with sightseeing and exploring the culture.
Best Time to Visit Gir National Park
The period from December to March is ideal for visiting Gir National Park as the climate is favorable for safaris and outdoor activities. Sightings of wildlife can also be good during the warmer months of April and May when animals may congregate around water sources—although temperatures can be quite high. Gir National Park is usually closed for the entire monsoon season and will reopen at a different time depending on the weather in the area and regulations from the forest department. Because of the changing nature of safaris and park entry regulations, visitors should consult the current safari schedule and park-entry rules prior to planning their visit.
Gir National Park: Places, Experiences & Food
Places to Visit in Gir National Park
- Gir National Park
- Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
- Devalia Safari Park
- Sasan Gir
- Kamleshwar Dam
- Crocodile Breeding Centre
- Gir Interpretation Zone
- Kankai Mata Temple
- Banej Temple
- Hiran River
- Sinh Sadan
- Sasan Gir Forest Area
- Somnath
- Junagadh
- Girnar
- Diu
Things to Do in Gir National Park
- Guided jeep safari
- Asiatic lions in their natural habitat
- Explore Gir's dry deciduous forests
- Visit Devalia Safari Park
- Leopards and other wildlife
- Spot chital, sambar and nilgai
- Look for crocodiles near water bodies
- Explore Gir's diverse birdlife
- Wildlife and forest landscapes
- Visit Kamleshwar Dam
- Hiran River and surrounding forests
- Learn about Asiatic lion conservation
- Visit the Gir Interpretation Zone
- Villages and landscapes around Sasan Gir
- Visit Kankai Mata Temple
- Banej and its forest surroundings
- Enjoy an early-morning safari
- Changing colours of the forest at sunset
- Combine a Gir safari with a visit to Somnath
- Explore Junagadh and nearby Girnar
- Discover local Gujarati culture and cuisine
- Enjoy a peaceful stay close to the forest
What to Eat in Gir National Park
- Gujarati Thali
- Kathiyawadi Thali
- Bajra Rotla
- Sev Tameta
- Lasaniya Bateta
- Ringna Bateta
- Gujarati Kadhi
- Dal Dhokli
- Khichdi
- Undhiyu
- Thepla
- Khakhra
- Khaman
- Dhokla
- Khandvi
- Patra
- Fafda
- Jalebi
- Bhajiya
- Gota
- Dabeli
- Sev Usal
- Lilva Kachori
- Pyaaz Kachori
- Samosa
- Farsan
- Shrikhand
- Basundi
- Mohanthal
- Chaas
- Lassi
- Masala Chai