Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, India, is the exclusive habitat of Asiatic Lions and is a protected sanctuary spanning over 1412 square kilometers. It is a crucial conservation site because of its diverse range of flora and fauna. Unfortunately, in the mid-1900s, the population of Asiatic lions dwindled to only 15 due to trophy hunting.
Back in 1965, the joint efforts of NGOs and wildlife activists led to the protection and establishment of Gir as the Gir National Forest Park. As of April 2010, the lion population in Gir was counted at 411. A visit to Gir promises to be an enjoyable experience, with the added thrill of encountering the king of the jungle. To help you plan your trip, check out the Gir National Park Travel Guide below.
Flora and fauna of Gir National Park
Flora
The national park's vegetation is classified as a dry deciduous forest full of various species of trees growing in the region where the climate is semi-dry. The park is home to 400 different species of trees. Some of the most famous trees that you are going to witness in this national park are:
- Teak
- Dhak
- Khair
- Jamun
- Ber
- Babul
- Banyan Tree
- Umlo
Fauna
It is important to note that the main reason for the popularity of Gir is the large number of Asiatic lions found there. This park is not only well-known within the country but also globally. It is a source of pride for India that the lion population continues to grow yearly. Seeing these majestic animals in their natural habitat is a unique and memorable experience.
This park is not just home to lions; various other animal species feel at home in this habitat. The animal species are as follows:
- Leopard
- Sambar Deer
- Chital
- Nilgai
- Wild Boar
Gir National Park safari
There are three Gir Jungle Trail vehicle excursions offered daily by the park. On this 3-hour Jeep safari, visitors can see lions in their natural habitat, other creatures, and colorful birds. Only a few automobiles—up to 30 at once—are permitted inside the park. All of these cars are privately owned and operated by the Forest Department. Visitors are strongly encouraged to book their jeep safaris well in advance. Only certain kinds of gasoline-powered personal vehicles are allowed in the park. A driver and a guide are still required.
Gir National Park Jeep safari timings
Winter (16 October to 28/29 February)
Morning- 06:30 a.m. to 09:30 a.m.
09:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Evening- 03:00 p.m. to 06:00 p.m.
Summer (1 March to 15 June)
Morning- 06:00 a.m. to 09:00 a.m.
09:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Evening- 04:00 p.m. to 07:00 p.m.
Brief History of Gir National Park
Since 1884, this park has been the only natural habitat for the critically endangered Asiatic lion. These British officers always took great pride in ruthlessly hunting lions and other animals when they were in power. Locals, Maharajas, and nawabs who owed them a favor helped them with every aspect of their hunting activities.
The Maharajas' pride and hunting prowess were gauged by how many tigers and lions they could kill during this time.
Since fewer lions were due to the great famine in 1899, Lord Curzon canceled his plans for any "Shikhar" or hunting expeditions. The local Maharajas and Nawabs should guard the few remaining lions, and it was also suggested. In 1960, the Indian government forbade lion hunting, allowing only the picture safaris still carried out today.
Best time to visit Gir National Park
The best time to visit Gir National Park is during the winter season, between December and March. Winter in Gujarat is when temperatures are usually around 20 °C and ideal for the various activities in the park, like safari. You may also plan your Gir trip in the summer, as it is also the best month to visit because animals collect near rivers to quench their thirst.
How to reach Gir National Park
The nearest airports to Gir National Park are Keshod Airport and Rajkot Airport. The Keshod airport is located around 70 km from the park, whereas the Rajkot airport is at a distance of around 160 km. The closest railroad stations to Gir National Park are Junagadh and Veraval, which are close to the park. Road travel is always a pleasant experience and is superior to all other forms of commuting. Gujarat has relatively good road conditions, making traveling by car there relaxing and enjoyable.
Gir National Park: Obtaining Entry Permit
The Sinh Sadan Orientation Center and the Forest Department Guest House, both located five minutes from the park's main gate, sell entry permits for the Gir Sanctuary. The center is open from 7 in the morning until 11 in the morning and from 3 in the afternoon until 5:30 in the evening.
The entry permit may also be purchased online from the park's official website to avoid the hassle of waiting in lines at the Orientation Center. A single pass allows entry for six people, with additional fees for children aged three to twelve.
