"Home of the Asiatic Lions"
Gir National Park Tourism
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary is the only remaining home for the Asiatic Lions. Located in Talala Gir in Gujarat, the Sanctuary is a part of Kathiawar- Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion. Gir National Park is closed from 16 June to 15 October every year and the best time for wildlife spotting is April and May.
Gir provides you with the unique experience of visiting a place which almost singularly plays a crucial and defining role in the preservation and sustaining of a certain species. The preservation of these lions was initiated by the Nawab of Junagadh when these were just about to enter the phase of extinction due to hunting.
The official count said that there were 411 lions in 2010. Also, there are roughly different 2375 species of fauna here with 38 species of mammals, over 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and over 2000 species of insects. Other important wildlife forms found here are leopard, chausingha, spotted deer, hyena, sambar deer and chinkara.
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Things to do in Gir National Park
1. Jeep Safari in Gir Jungle Trail (Gir West)
The Jeep Safari in the Gir Jungle Trail (Gir West) is the most popular and reliable way to spot Asiatic lions, leopards, deer, jackals, and a wide range of bird species in their natural habitat. The p (Read More)ark is divided into 13 safari zones, each with its own route, and visitors are assigned a zone randomly upon booking. Safaris are conducted in open-roof jeeps with licensed guides and drivers provided by the forest department, ensuring a safe and informative experience.
The best time to take a safari is early morning or late afternoon, especially from October to mid-June, when animal activity is highest and visibility is ideal. Each safari lasts about 3 hours and runs three times a day, but due to limited permits per slot, it's advisable to book well in advance. For a more accessible experience, especially for those with limited time, the Devalia Interpretation Zone offers a shorter safari with high chances of spotting lions in a fenced enclosure.
The best time to take a safari is early morning or late afternoon, especially from October to mid-June, when animal activity is highest and visibility is ideal. Each safari lasts about 3 hours and runs three times a day, but due to limited permits per slot, it's advisable to book well in advance. For a more accessible experience, especially for those with limited time, the Devalia Interpretation Zone offers a shorter safari with high chances of spotting lions in a fenced enclosure.
2. Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone)
Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone) is a fenced eco-tourism zone within Gir that offers visitors a high probability of spotting Asiatic lions, leopards, deer, and other wildlife in a shorter (Read More) span of time. Designed as a compact version of the Gir Jungle Safari, it’s ideal for those with limited time or unable to secure core safari permits.
The safari is conducted in mini buses or gypsies along a fixed route inside the enclosed zone, making it both convenient and accessible. While the experience lacks the thrill of the open wilderness, it guarantees wildlife sightings, especially of lions, in a controlled environment. Devalia remains open throughout the year, including the monsoon season when the core forest zones are closed.
The safari is conducted in mini buses or gypsies along a fixed route inside the enclosed zone, making it both convenient and accessible. While the experience lacks the thrill of the open wilderness, it guarantees wildlife sightings, especially of lions, in a controlled environment. Devalia remains open throughout the year, including the monsoon season when the core forest zones are closed.
3. Crocodile Breeding Centre
The Crocodile Breeding Centre in Gir is a specialized facility focused on the breeding, rehabilitation, and conservation of the critically endangered mugger and marsh crocodile species. Located near t (Read More)he Gir Interpretation Zone, it offers guided visits where you can observe various age groups—from hatchlings to adults—in well-maintained enclosures and rearing ponds. Informative displays and expert staff explain nesting habits, incubation processes, and the centre's role in wildlife education and ecosystem balance. This site provides a safe, educational complement to the jungle safari, ideal for families and wildlife enthusiasts seeking deeper insight into Gir’s conservation efforts.
4. Gir Nature Walks & Birdwatching
Gir Nature Walks & Birdwatching offer a peaceful contrast to the high-energy jeep safaris, with guided strolls along forest trails in less-disturbed zones of Gir National Park. These walks are exc (Read More)ellent for spotting colorful birds like painted francolins, peafowl, and raptors, as well as small mammals and reptiles under the guidance of trained naturalists. Best taken early morning or late afternoon, the walks reveal hidden aspects of the ecosystem—bird calls, insect life, and plant diversity—often missed during vehicle safaris. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and families seeking a more intimate connection with nature, these walks add depth and nuance to the Gir experience.
5. Kamleshwar Dam
Kamleshwar Dam, nestled within the Gir National Park buffer zone, provides a serene escape and a refreshing stop for wildlife enthusiasts. Surrounded by dry teak forests and open grasslands, the reser (Read More)voir attracts a variety of animals—deer, wild boar, and birds—especially during early morning and late afternoon. Visitors can enjoy guided nature walks along the dam’s embankment or simply watch wildlife come down to drink. Less crowded than the core park areas, Kamleshwar Dam offers a peaceful, offbeat alternative for a half-day nature retreat.
6. Kankai Mata Temple
Kankai Mata Temple is a revered hilltop shrine located within the Gir forest region, dedicated to Goddess Kankai and frequented by both locals and tourists. Perched atop a rocky elevation, the temple (Read More)offers panoramic views of surrounding teak and acacia woodlands, making it a peaceful spiritual destination. Accessible via a short uphill trek from the nearby road, it provides a scenic and serene experience away from the busy safari zones. Visitors often combine this visit with early morning or late afternoon wildlife excursions, adding a cultural and meditative dimension to their Gir trip.
7. Tulsi Shyam Temple & Hot Springs
Tulsi Shyam Temple & Hot Springs, nestled about 25 km from Gir National Park, is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Krishna’s brother-in-law, Tulsi Shyam. The temple sits amidst ver (Read More)dant hills and sacred hot springs believed to have healing powers, attracting devotees seeking both spiritual solace and therapeutic relief. Pilgrims often bathe in the springs before offering prayers, adding a ritualistic depth to the experience. Accessible via a scenic drive, this tranquil temple–spring complex offers a peaceful cultural stopover during wildlife excursions in the region.
8. Jamjir Waterfalls (near Kodinar)
Jamjir Waterfalls, located near Kodinar in Gujarat, is a scenic cascade nestled amid lush greenery and rocky terrain. The waterfall offers a refreshing trail through forest cover, making it a popular (Read More)short-trek destination for nature lovers and families. Rainy season transforms it into a powerful cascade, while winter and summer offer gentler flows suitable for leisurely visits. Visitors can enjoy a picnic near the water, swim in the natural pool, and soak in the calm, unspoiled ambiance.
9. Banej Forest Temple
Banej Forest Temple, nestled within the Banej Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat, is a serene spiritual retreat dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated amid dense teak and tendu forests, the temple is enveloped (Read More)by rich biodiversity, offering a peaceful setting for devotion and nature appreciation. The temple area is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between November and February when the weather is mild and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Easily reached via simple forest trails, this tranquil temple makes for a rewarding cultural and ecological stop for travelers exploring the region.
10. Maldhari and Siddis Villages Visit
Maldhari and Siddi villages in Gujarat offer a unique cultural immersion into two distinct tribal communities. Maldharis, traditional cattle herders in the Banni grasslands, practice age-old pastoral (Read More)lifestyles—visitors can learn about their buffalo-based dairy, traditional huts, and seasonal festivals. Siddi villages, descendants of African settlers, showcase a rich syncretic culture through vibrant music, dance, and cuisine influenced by both African and local Gujarati traditions. Meetings with artisans and homestays provide authentic insights into their daily lives, crafts, and oral storytelling. Visiting both communities supports sustainable tourism while deepening appreciation for Gujarat's diverse cultural heritage.
11. Gir Summer Festival & Local Melas
The Gir Summer Festival & Local Melas offer a vibrant slice of regional culture alongside wildlife adventures in Gujarat’s Gir region. Held during the dry season—typically from January (Read More) to March—these events combine folk music and dance performances, craft stalls showcasing traditional bandhani, leatherwork, and bamboo artifacts, as well as local cuisine featuring tribal delicacies. They celebrate village life, weaving in storytelling, puppet shows, and interactive folk art sessions that invite visitors to engage directly with local artisans and performers.
Top Hotels In Gir National Park
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Attractions in Gir National Park
Apart from the famous Gir jungle trail at the national park, Gir has many other attractions to offer to tourists. The Kamleshwar dam, which is the largest dam in Gir, is one such attraction, and it is often referred to as the ‘lifeline of Gir’. It is built over the Hiran river. The beautiful Tulsi Shyam temple located within the national park is also a must-visit. The crocodile breeding farm, located near the Sasan Gir reserve, is also a popular tourist destination.
Water Reserve
The Gir region has seven major rivers, and 4 reservoirs at 4 dams - one each on the Hiran, Machhundri, Raval and Shingoda rivers. The biggest reservoir is the Kamleshwar Dam, which is called as the lifeline of Gir. Droughts and water scarcity are a major challenge in the region, especially during peak summers.
Biodiversity of Gir
The dry deciduous forests of Gir are believed to house over 500 species of flora, with teak trees being the most populous. Other prominent species include jamun, babul and the flame of the forest. Casuarinas and Prosopis were planted along the coastal borders of Gir for under the afforestation program.
Gir is synonyms to the royal Asiatic lions that draws in the wildlife enthusiasts from all around the globe. The national park is the last abode of the endangered species of Asiatic lions that are the pride of India.
With the population of about 500 lions and 400 leopards in its premises, Gir is one of the biggest habitats of the wild cats and also a haven for the wildlife lovers. Apart from the leopards and lions, the national park also houses the various variety of species such as Deer, Sambhar, Cheetal, antelopes, blue bull, jackal, hyena and hare among the other species of fauna.
Gir is synonyms to the royal Asiatic lions that draws in the wildlife enthusiasts from all around the globe. The national park is the last abode of the endangered species of Asiatic lions that are the pride of India.
With the population of about 500 lions and 400 leopards in its premises, Gir is one of the biggest habitats of the wild cats and also a haven for the wildlife lovers. Apart from the leopards and lions, the national park also houses the various variety of species such as Deer, Sambhar, Cheetal, antelopes, blue bull, jackal, hyena and hare among the other species of fauna.
Devalia Safari Park
The Devalia Safari Park is also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone and was established to reduce the excess of tourists at the Gir National Park. It is an eco-tourism zone, known as ‘Gir in a nutshell’, which houses all the wildlife and habitats of Gir within its boundaries.
Prominent species that can be spotted here include - Blue Bull, Asiatic Lion, Leopard, Sambhar and Peafowl. The Savana habitat is also a popular attraction here. A tour of Devalia is cheaper, quicker and allows tourists to view the animals in their natural habitat.
Morning Timings
Bus - 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Gypsy - One hour ride slots between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Evening Timings
Bus - 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Gypsy - One hour ride slots between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Indian Travellers (Per Head)
Weekdays:
Bus Permit - INR 150
Gypsy Permit - INR 800 (for a max. of 6 people)
+ INR 100 (for each extra child)
Weekend/Holidays:
Bus Permit - INR 190
Gypsy Permit - INR 1000 (for a max. of 6 people)
+ INR 125 (for each extra child)
Foreign Travellers (Per Head)
Weekdays:
Bus Permit - INR 2800
Gypsy Permit - INR 5600 (for a max. of 6 people)
+ INR 1400 (for each extra child)
Weekend/Holidays:
Bus Permit - INR 3500
Gypsy Permit - INR 7000 (for a max. of 6 people)
+ INR 1750 (for each extra child)
Note
The Gypsy Permit charge does not include the Guide and Gypsy charges, which is INR 400 and INR 1500 respectively. This must be paid individually to the guides and the gypsy owners.
Prominent species that can be spotted here include - Blue Bull, Asiatic Lion, Leopard, Sambhar and Peafowl. The Savana habitat is also a popular attraction here. A tour of Devalia is cheaper, quicker and allows tourists to view the animals in their natural habitat.
Morning Timings
Bus - 7:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Gypsy - One hour ride slots between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM
Evening Timings
Bus - 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Gypsy - One hour ride slots between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Indian Travellers (Per Head)
Weekdays:
Bus Permit - INR 150
Gypsy Permit - INR 800 (for a max. of 6 people)
+ INR 100 (for each extra child)
Weekend/Holidays:
Bus Permit - INR 190
Gypsy Permit - INR 1000 (for a max. of 6 people)
+ INR 125 (for each extra child)
Foreign Travellers (Per Head)
Weekdays:
Bus Permit - INR 2800
Gypsy Permit - INR 5600 (for a max. of 6 people)
+ INR 1400 (for each extra child)
Weekend/Holidays:
Bus Permit - INR 3500
Gypsy Permit - INR 7000 (for a max. of 6 people)
+ INR 1750 (for each extra child)
Note
The Gypsy Permit charge does not include the Guide and Gypsy charges, which is INR 400 and INR 1500 respectively. This must be paid individually to the guides and the gypsy owners.
Gir Jungle Trail
Each safari at Gir (Gir Jugle Trail) would last for 3 hours covering a range of sections throughout the forest. Alongside a jeep and a guide, travellers could also take upfront pictures of the majestic Asiatic lions here. However, visitors would have to obtain permission from the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge Office, which would be furthered by Gir Park itself.
Each safari slot requires at least 5 visitors. A typical safari would traverse through 300 lion species, 200 bird types, 30 different mammals and 24 kinds of reptiles.
Cost
A single jeep safari would cost INR 5300 for six adults and a child. However, the same package would cost about INR 13800 for foreign visitors.
Winter Timings (16th Oct - 28th/29th Feb)
Morning - 6:45 AM - 9:45 AM
Evening - 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Summer Timings (1st Mar - 15th June)
Morning - 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Evening - 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
The Gir Jungle Trail has an annual shutdown between 16th June and 15th October.
Restaurants and Local Food in Gir National Park
Gir has a number of resorts and lodges that serve food across various cuisines. These ensure that you won't run out of options for food while on your trip through adventure and excitement. Since it's a part of Gujarat, you might find local and elaborate Gujarati cuisine being served here. Typically vegetarian, Gujarati Thali would consist of Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries. Gujarat is a dry state, so you wouldn't find any alcohol here.
View Top Restaurants in Gir National Park
View Top Restaurants in Gir National Park
Suggested Itinerary for Gir National Park
Day 1 - Arrive at Keshod airport or Junagadh railway station. Transfer to resort in the Gir National park. Check-in at the hotel.
Spend the rest of the day at the resort.
Day 2 - Leave for wildlife excursion in the National park. Enjoy the wildlife safari.
In the evening enjoy the bird watching.
Back to the resort.
Dinner at the resort. Overnight stay at the resort with a bonfire and other cultural programmes.
Best Time to Visit Gir National Park
Nearby Places
Gir National Park Photos
FAQs on Gir National Park
What is the best time to visit Gir national park?
The best time to visit Gir National Park is during the winter season between December and March. It is during this period that the weather in Gir is pleasant and cool. The protected area of Gir National Park closes every year from 16th June to 15th October. Home to the majestic Asiatic Lions, Gir National Park is a place that is on the list of every animal lover and wildlife photographer. You will be able to easily explore this dense place during this time of year and also spot a plethora of other animals and birds. A safari in this national park during the winter season will be a delightful experience as each, and every nook and cranny is open to visit and explore.
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What are the places near Gir national park?
The top places near to Gir national park are Diu which is 50 km from Gir national park, Somnath which is located 49 km from Gir national park, Girnar which is located 49 km from Gir national park, Junagadh which is located 55 km from Gir national park, Porbandar which is located 133 km from Gir national park
What is the best way to reach Gir national park?
Junagadh is the most popular base camp for visiting Gir - 60 km away. Junagadh is the closest and most well-connected railway station. You can take a cab from there.
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What is the local food in Gir national park?
Gir has a number of resorts and lodges that serve food across various cuisines. These ensure that you won't run out of options for food while on your trip through adventure and excitement. Since it's a part of Gujarat, you might find local and elaborate Gujarati cuisine being served here. Typically vegetarian, Gujarati Thali would consist of Roti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries. Gujarat is a dry state, so you wouldn't find any alcohol here.
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Who should visit Gir national park?
Perfect place for wildlife lovers and photographers.
What is not so good about Gir national park?
Does not have its own airport, railway station, and bus station so difficult to reach.
What is famous about Gir national park?
Gir is one of the biggest habitats for the lions and leopards. A great place for the wildlife safari.
Have a Question on Gir National Park?
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Popular Questions And Answers on Gir National Park
Q. I'm a bird watching enthusiast. Is Gir a good option for me that way?
Kaveesh Nair
7 years ago
The park checklist has 250 birds and about 50 other species (including the endangered lesser florican and the saras crane) recorded in the grasslands along the periphery of the sanctuary. Many specie (Read More)s like the painted sandgrouse, grey francolin, quails, Asian paradise flycatcher, black-naped monarch, white-browed fantail, Asian brown flycatcher, grey-headed flycatcher, verditer flycatcher, tickell's blue flycatcher, greenish warbler, white-eye, coppersmith barbet, common and marshal's iora, rufous treepie, yellow-footed green pigeon have been spotted by our guests around the lodge itself.
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Q. How many budget for gir travel
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Gir National Park Reviews
Your rating
Ayush Baheti
7 years ago
- Follow the guide's instructions. Carry sunglasses, caps and water. Atleast at 2 to 3 days stay is reccommended.