Gir Forest National Park

Gir Forest National Park which is famously known as Sasan Gir located at just 43KM from Somnath, Gujarat. This is the only Wildlife Sanctuary for Asiatic lion spread in around 1412 square KM founded in 1965.

Gir Forest National Park Images

Explore Gir Forest National Park through captivating images that showcase their rich culture, history, and charm.

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Where Gir Forest National Park located

How To Reach Gir Forest National Park

By Air

The nearest airport is Rajkot International Airport, which is approximately 195 km away from Gir National Park.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Junagadh Junction, which is approximately 80 km away.

By Bus

Porbandar, Jamnagar, and Bhavnagar are the major cities that are well connected by road to Gir Forest National Park.

Gir Forest National Park Tour Packages

Explore Gir Forest National Park with our tour packages, where each package is designed to take you in the rich culture, historical landmarks, and local flavors of the region.

Gir Forest National Park, Junagadh, Gujarat

The Gir Forest National Park, also known as Sasan Gir is one of the prime attractions in the state Gujarat, established in 1965. This Sasan gir park is the sole home of Asiatic lions, located at 60 km north-east of Somnath, 75 km south-west of Amreli, and 70 km south-east of Junagadh district. Gir is one of the oldest as well as most visited wildlife sanctuaries in India. This national forest can take a legitimate pride in saving various endangered species that was extinct during the twenty-first century. This forest provides a secure habitat to these species. The Government of Gujarat has announced the total area of Gir Forest as 1882.6 sq km divided in a protected area of 1412.1 sq km contains 258.7 sq km as a National Park and 1153.4 sq km as a Sanctuary and 470.5 sq km of forest area called a buffer zone and unclassified forest. It is one of the most protected areas in Asia that covers many precious species from the brink of extinction. Today, it is the only place where Asiatic lions, an endangered species found. Apart from this Asiatic Lions race, you can also enjoy rich flora and fauna that are protected by the Government Forest Department and various NGOs.

The lifeline of Gir, Kamleshwar Dam is the biggest reservoir, located between 21°08′08″N 70°47′48″E. Apart from this, there are several major perennial rivers of the Gir region including Datardi, Machhundri, Hiran, Shetrunji, Raval, and Godavari. In 1955, as per the survey of Gir Forest, more than 400 plant species were declared and the Botany Department revised this record and declared 507 species of plants in this Gir National Forest. This list of species includes Teak, khair, dudhlo, ber, dhav, desi baval, hermo, sadad, ashitro, saledi, timru, modad, khakhro and many others.

The Gir forest covers around 2,375 distinct species of fauna, comprising 2000 of species of insects, 300 species of birds, 38 species of mammals and 37 species of reptiles. This rich biodiversity mainly includes Asiatic Lions, Indian Cobras, Indian Leopards, Jungle Cats, Indian Mangoose, Striped Hyenas, Indian Palm Civets, and so on. In addition to these carnivores, Gir Forest offers a range of Herbivores, including Chital, Sambar, Chinkara, Wild Boar, Nilgai, Four-horned Antelope, and Blackbucks. 300 typical species of birds include crested serpent eagle, crested hawk-eagle, Indian eagle-owl, black-headed oriole, Indian eagle-owl, Pygmy woodpecker, crested tree swift, Indian Pitta, and much more. In the water areas of the sanctuary, you can see marsh crocodiles, hir tortoises, and the monitor lizard. Sometimes snakes can also be found in the bushes.

Places to Visit near National Park:

Somnath Temple: Somnath Temple is a significant pilgrimage place for Hindus and it is one of twelve jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. The temple has historical importance and it was destroyed and built many times by Muslim & Hindu kings respectively.

Kankai Mata Temple: Kankai Mata Temple is dedicated to Shri Kankeshwari Mata. This temple is located approximately 3 km away from Gir National Park.

Tulsishyam Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. Tulsishyam Temple is famous for its natural beauty, architecture, and hot springs.

Kamaleshwar Dam: If you are an enthusiast of Birdwatching, Kamalehwar Dam is a must-visit place for you. This dam is popular for its scenic bird views.

Things to do in Gir National Park

Jeep Safari: Jeep Safari is the most popular activity in Gir National Park. From Jeep Safari you can explore Gir wildlife in their natural habitat.

Birdwatching: While Gir is known for its wildlife safari, it is also a great destination for birdwatching. Gir is home to more than 300 bird species.

Photography: Doing photography in the natural environment is a great fun activity. The Gir Forest National Park is considered to be a paradise for animal lovers and the for people who want to explore nature.

Gir Jungle Safari Timings:

Date:Morning Time:Evening Time:
16 Oct to 28/29 Feb
(Monday to Sunday) 
6:45 A.M. to 9:45 A.M.3:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.
1 March to 15 June
(Monday to Sunday)
6:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M.4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.

Note: Gir Jungle Safari is closed every year from 16 June to 15 October.

Gir Jungle Safari Permit/Ticket:

Days:No of Person:Price:
WeekdaysUp to 6 personRs. 800 for Indians
Rs. 6400 for Foreigners
Weekend and FestivalUp to 6 personRs. 1000 for Indians
Rs. 8000 for Foreigners

(This is only the E-Permit price, you have to pay extra for a Guide and Gypsy)
Tickets can be booked on the official website: https://girlion.gujarat.gov.in/GirJungleTrailBooking.aspx

Best time to visit:
January,February,March,November,December
Activities at this place:
Wildlife Safaris

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