Gir National Park India

Gir National Park is a popular and unique wildlife reserve, located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. Gir National Park India is widely famed for being the only abode of the endangered species of the Asiatic lions. No other national parks or any wildlife reserves provide refuge to this big cat population. In the year 1965, Gir National Park was first set up in an area of 259 sq. km. Later in 1975, it bagged the status of a national park with a total area of 1412 sq. km. Since the late 1960s, the population of lions has grown significantly, rising from under 200 to 674 according to the 2020 census. According to the latest census of 2025, the population of the Asiatic lions has increased further to 891.

Till 2008, the Asiatic Lions were identified as ‘Critically Endangered’ by IUCN, which has been upgraded to ‘Endangered’ after 2008. Another unique factor of Gir National Park is the Gir Interpretation Zone, also known as the Devaliya Safari Park. It is a smaller area adjacent to the main Gir National Park area. This enclosed area also operates jeep safaris for a shorter duration than the Gir jeep safari India. Apart from the majestic Asiatic lions, a plethora of other wildlife species, birds, and flora are also part of Gir National Park.

Depending on the group size, visitors need to choose the jeep type. An advance and online Jeep safari booking India is strictly suggested for a hassle-free experience. However, in the case of the Devaliya jeep safari, only 6-seaters are available, and the charges are less compared to the Gir jeep safari. Completing the booking process online ensures a guaranteed safari. The online booking process of the Gir jeep safari is simple and can be completed easily within a few steps.

All kinds of Gir jeep safari India operate only in the morning and evening slots. The Gir jeep safaris operate for 3 hours per slot, while the Devaliya safari lasts for 1 hour. There are certain sets of rules and regulations that need to be followed after the safari vehicle enters the safari zones. Violation of any rule is a punishable offence. Visitors also note that kids from 3-12 years are considered children and beyond that would be considered adults and have to pay the full fees for the seat.

Gir Safari Zones: Unlike the other reputed national parks in India, Gir does not have multiple safari zones. It just has -
• Gir Jungle Trail
• Gir Interpretation Zone
The safari vehicles begin from the Sinh Sadan and take he tourists deep inside the forest of Gir National Park India, through the routes marked out by the forest department.

Flora - The forest is rich in diverse plant life, with tall Teak (Tectona grandis) trees forming a strong canopy. Species like Khair (Acacia catechu), Hermo (Acacia leucophloea), and Desi Baval (Acacia nilotica) grow widely across the area, along with Dhavdo (Anogeissus latifolia) and Sadad (Terminalia tomentosa). You will also find Timru (Diospyros melanoxylon), Dudhlo (Wrightia tinctoria), and Ashitro (Bauhinia racemosa), adding variety to the forest cover. Trees such as Saledi (Boswellia serrata), Modad (Lannea coromandelica), Khakhro (Butea monosperma), and Ber (Acacia bellerica) further enrich the natural landscape, creating a healthy and balanced forest ecosystem.

Fauna - Gir National Park is known for its rich wildlife and natural diversity. The forest is home to around 32 species of mammals, nearly 300 species of birds, 26 types of reptiles, and countless insects that together form a healthy ecosystem. Among the animals found here, the Asiatic Lion is the main attraction and a rare treasure of nature. Other mammals commonly seen in Gir include Leopard (Panthera pardus fusca), Chital or Spotted Deer (Axis axis), Sambar (Cervus unicolour), Blue Bull or Nilgai (Boselaphus tragocamelus), Chausingha (Tetracerus quadricornis), and Chinkara (Gazella bennettii). Reptiles like the Marsh Crocodile (Crocodylus palustris) can be spotted near water bodies. Gir is equally famous for its birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Species such as the Indian Peafowl, Paradise Flycatcher, Indian Pitta, and Malabar Whistling Thrush add colour and sound to the forest.

Kamleshwar Dam - The Kamleshwar Dam is built on the Hiran River, one of the seven rivers in the park, alongside Dhatarvadi, Shetrunji, Shingoda, Machhundri, Raval, and Ambajal. This dam is a crucial water source and is often referred to as the "lifeline of Gir." It was originally constructed in 1959 for irrigation and covers a large area of 7.64 million square meters. Over the years, it has become a favourite spot for visitors, providing a beautiful place to relax with family. The dam's waters, especially at sunset, offer a stunning view.

Somnath - Somnath is a significant and well-known tourist spot in Gujarat, primarily recognised for its spiritual significance. The Somnath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas located throughout India. Its breathtaking coastal backdrop, along with intricately carved sandstone architecture, makes it truly remarkable. The historical richness of the site further enhances its charm. Each year in February or March, the festival of Maha Shivratri attracts considerable interest and fervour.

Diu - Diu is a favoured destination for travellers to Gujarat and is frequently referred to as a paradise for beach enthusiasts. This erstwhile Portuguese colony boasts beautiful beaches, delightful ancient churches, and remarkable historical forts. A standout attraction is Diu Fort, a substantial edifice constructed by the Portuguese, featuring cannons, a lighthouse, and breathtaking ocean views. Nagoa Beach, in particular, is ideal for enjoying water sports or simply unwinding. Additionally, the local seafood is a delightful experience, providing a refreshing alternative to traditional Gujarati cuisine.

Uparkot Fort - The oldest section of Junagadh and the highlight of any visit is the Uparkot Citadel, which boasts a history of over 2,300 years. With towering walls that rise to around 20 meters, Uparkot is renowned for withstanding a 12-year siege. The fort complex is home to caves thought to date back to the 1st to 4th centuries AD, featuring beautifully crafted pillars, entrances, water cisterns, horseshoe-shaped chaitya windows, an assembly hall, and meditation spaces. Additionally, a deep moat, once filled with crocodiles, provided extra protection from invaders. Key attractions within Uparkot Fort include the Buddhist caves, Baba Pyara caves, Adi-Kadi Vav, Navghan Kuvo, and Jama Masjid.

Girnar Hills - Rising to an elevation of 3,672 feet, Girnar is an ancient hill situated in Junagadh. During a trek to Girnar Hill, visitors will discover several significant sites, such as Domdar Kund, located near the Damodar and Baldvji temples. As trekkers make their way along the rocky paths to explore the various peaks, they will encounter numerous temples representing different sects of Hinduism. Among these is the Bhavnath Temple, where 'naked sadhus' can be seen gathering to celebrate Shivratri. After climbing 4,000 steps and reaching 800 steps before the first summit, trekkers will find a plateau that is home to a collection of Jain temples.

Dwarka - Dwarka city holds great importance in Gujarat's tourism, as the Dwarkadeesh Temple is one of the four sacred temples in the Char Dham Pilgrimage Circuit of India. This ancient city is believed to have been the legendary kingdom of Lord Krishna. The magnificent Dwarkadhish Temple is situated at the centre of Dwarka, famous for its exquisite architecture and attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors each year. In addition to the Dwarkadish Temple, visitors can also explore the Rukmini Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna's wife. A short boat ride away, one can find Bet Dwarka, a delightful island that offers a serene escape.