Gir National Park: Home of the Asiatic Lion
- Admin
- 17 May 2023
Want to see the King of Jungles live? No need to visit Africa, just visit Gujarat. Asiatic lions reign Gir National Park and offers a thrilling experience to nature and wild lovers from around the world.
History of Gir National Park
Gir National Park was the hunting grounds for the Junagarh Nawabs. It was transformed into a Wildlife Reserve in 1965 to save the lions.
Why Visit Gir National Park?
While India is known for its rich flora and fauna and there are several national parks and sanctuaries around the country, Gir National Park is unique for its high population of lions. The best part about watching lions in the Gir National Park is you can find these in their own natural moo,Pd, relaxing at the side of roads, pampering the puppies or hunting.
Other Wildlife attractions
Sloth bear, wild boar, Indian leopards, striped hyenas, spotted deer and four horned deer and porcupines. Marsh crocodiles are a major attraction of this national park. The Kamleshwar Dam is located within the park is filled with these carnivores.
Besides lions, this Park is also a bird watchers paradise. Tourists can witness endangered avian species like Bonelli eagles, sarus cranes, white backed and long billed vultures.
Other than the flora and fauna
Gir National Park is not only a safe shelter to the Asiatic lions but also home to the Maldhari tribes. Visit their villages within the forest, which are known as nesses. Also known as the community of the cattle herders, Maldharilive a rustic life depending on forest produce. This tribe does not grief over the loss of their cattle to the predators but considers this as a sacrifice or offering in lieu of their ability to stay within the jungle.
In and around Gir National Park
Want to get a single snap of the complete Gir forest? Enjoy a safari trip in the fenced Devalia Safari Park.
[caption id="attachment_2257" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Devalia Safari Park[/caption]
Soak in the exquisite beauty of nature at the Jamvala village. The Jamjir Waterfalls of the village is 12 feet high and has two levels.
The Kankai Mata Temple is a must visit. The shrine is located within the Gir National Forest and is dedicated to Kankai Mata. Spend sometime here to witness the local customs and enjoy a strange mix of folk songs and wild roars at the same time.
How to Reach?
Deccan Odyssey train is one of the most convenient ways to visit Gir National Park. This is a luxury train from the Indian Railways which takes the tourists at different parts of the country. The train has a special tour itinerary, Hidden Treasures Of Gujarat Journey which takes you to the Gir National Park. In the 7 nights and 8 days tour package the train chugs into the Gir National Park on 4th day.
Besides taking you to the Gir National Park, the staff of Deccan Odyssey also arranges for jeep safaris through the forest.
Know more about Deccan Odyssey
- Deccan Odyssey train cost
- Deccan Odyssey train departure dates
- Deccan Odyssey train coaches
- Deccan Odyssey train route
- Deccan Odyssey train booking
- Facilities of Deccan Odyssey train
When to Visit
The ideal time to visit Gir National Park is from December to March. During the peak time, it can get very crowded after the long waits. You are more likely to see lions and experience the wildlife in Gujarat. While the summers are very hot during the months March to May.
Opening Hours and Safari Timings
Gir National Park is open during the months mid October until mid June. There are three safari slots, namely from 6 AM to 9 AM, 9 AM to 12 PM and 3 PM to 6 PM. The Devalia Safari Park is open all the year from Thursday to Tuesday (closed Wednesday), 8.00 AM until 11:00 AM and 3.00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Entry Fees and Charges
Monday to Friday: 800 rupees for Indians and 4,800 rupees for foreigners.
Saturday and Sunday: 1,000 rupees for Indians and 6,000 rupees for foreigners.
Festival Days (Christmas, Diwali, and Navaratri): 1,000 rupees for Indians and 6,000 rupees for foreigner.
Note: The Festival time, for which the higher charges apply, extend for about two weeks from the festival dates.
Apart from this, if you want a guide to accompany you inside the park, you need to pay 400 rupees, cost of jeep safari is 2100 rupees and for DSLR camera charges for Indian is 200 rupees and for foreigners is 1200 rupees.
You may also read related articles:
- The Top Ten Ski Resorts In The World
- Get a Thrilling Experience at Pench Tiger Reserve through Deccan Odyssey
- Embark On a Soulful Journey of India with Deccan Odyssey Tour Packages
