Gir National Park and Sanctuary

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Gir is situated in the dry and drought prone region of Gujarat, and is called the jewel of Saurashtra peninsula. This national park is famous for its Asiatic lion, being the only natural habitat left for this royal animal in the sub-continent. There are around 300 Asiatic lions roaming in this Park, and around 250 leopards.

Extremely rich with many Indian Wildlife species, the biodiversity of Gir consists of 38 species of mammals, 32 species of reptiles, 10 species of amphibians, more than 300 species of birds, more than 2000 plus species of insects. In addition, there are more than 500 species of plants.

The terrain of the Park is rocky, and deep ravines and patches of open grasslands add to the beauty of this arid place. The mixed deciduous forests cover steep rocky hillsides.

Flora: Mixed deciduous forest consists of teak, flame of the forest, some Acacia and Banyan trees. Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus and Amli can also be found in the Park.

Fauna: Lions, leopards (In India, Gir has the second largest population of leopard), Sambar deer, Chital (spotted deer), Nilgai Aatelope, Chowsingha four-horned antelope, chinkara gazelle, wild boar, langur, jackal, hyena and more.

Avian-Fauna: Paradise flycatcher, Bonneli’s eagle, crested serpent eagle, woodpeckers flamingo, fish owl, black vulture, shaheen falcon, honey buzzard, redheaded merlin, sandgrouse, and more.

Major Attractions:

Asiatic Lions: It’s the smallest sub-species of lion found only in the Indian sub-continent. However, today, the population of this lion is restricted to Gir National Park and Sanctuary.

Jeep Safari: The Jeep ride around this sanctuary provides you the best opportunity to spot and observe the wild cats in their natural habitat, and also spot various other wild animals, and rare birds.

In the southwest Saurashtra area of Gujarat, about 65 km southeast of Junagarh district.

Area: 1412.13 sq. km

Route: Buses are available from Junagadh and Veraval to Gir from November to June. The park is situated at a distance of 400 km from Ahmedabad via Rajkot, Junagadh and Mendarda.

The nearest railhead is a meter gauge rail line around 395-km from Ahemdabad. The nearest airport from Gir is Keshod, which is 90-km away from Veraval. From Mumbai, there are daily flights to Keshod.

Other Places to Visit:

Junagarh: This town is situated at the foothills of Grinar Hills. The place is known for its archaeological sites and historical monuments. The major tourist attractions in Junagarh are Ashok Shilalekh, Sakkarbag zoo, Makabara, Narsinh Mehta Choro, Junagarh Fort, Upperkot, and more.

Chowad Beach: Chorwad Beach is located at a distance of 66 km from Junagadh on the Gujarat border. The beach is known for its rocky mounds and seafront. The magnificent Chorwad Palace makes this place a double treat.

Things to keep in mind:

• Gir Sanctuary can only be visited during daytime
• Prior permit is required to visit the sanctuary


Keep in your Trek Bag:

• Walking stick
• Hiking shoes
• Woolen clothes
• Water, juices, snacks
• Electric torch
• Medical kit
• A good compass
• An extra pair of clothes