In the aura of fresh air surrounded by lush greenery and rich wildlife, lies the heart of Gujarat – Gir Forest. Gir forest is home to the magnificent Gir National Park with rare species of Asiatic lions, leopards and gigantic marsh crocodiles. The Gir forest is an idea combination of exotic wildlife, rocky hills and thrill that these 650+ lions would set to your heart!

About Gir

Gir is a widespread area covering a total of 1412 square kilometers of the huge deciduous forest. Gir once witnessed extreme cruel hunting by the locals and that’s how the Forest officials put their best foot forward to protect one of endangered species across the globe. Today, Gir is home to the Gir National Park and Devalia Safari Park

Location and Accessibility

Gir National Park is easily accessible for the animal lovers. The prime name of the Gir is Sasan Gir, located in Gujarat state of Western India.

By Road: Gir is 60 Km from Junagadh and 45 km from Veraval to Sasan Gir. Public transportation is available on a regular basis

By Train: The nearest railway station is Junagadh after which you need to drive through Sasan

By Air: The nearest airport are Rajkot and Dui. You can then hire a cab or drive through Sasan Gir.

Climate and Biodiversity:

Gir enjoys tropical monsoon climate. Winters can be extremely chilly as temperature drops to 10° degrees while summers can be extremely hot with scorching 43° degrees.

This wildlife sanctuary in Gir forest offers enormous exposure to exotic wildlife across the globe. Along with lions of Gir, your vacation is going to leave you thrilled with leopards, deers, rare antelopes, jackal and deadly Hyena. Authentic flora at Gir forest curates the home for more than 200 species of birds along with the rare white-backed and long-billed vultures. Missed something? Reptiles! Your gir safari could be lucky if you get to spot marsh crocodiles, King Kobra, Viper and the Krait.

Main Attractions:

The prime attraction is the enthralling Gir safari that allows you to spot lions of Gir with your naked eyes. A three day jeep safari provides enough goosebumps animal lovers out there.

Two day birdwatching tours have also gained significance as the jungle trail is a home to sensational birds.

Gir Interpretation Zone known as Devalia Safari Park is another worth visiting sanctuary in the Gir forest. It is a charm to wildlife as you can spot Asiatic lions along with some other endangered species.

Kamleshwar Dam located in the Gir forest is amazing for bird watching and takes you in the leap of magical nature.

Godess Kankai is situated at the heart of wilderness amidst the thrilling lands of Gir. Kankai Mata Temple is indeed worth a visit in Gir.

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal time is between November to March as the climate ranges from cold to pleasant gradually

It is undoubtedly an exhilarating experience when you step out to spot the exotic wildlife at Gir Forest that the world dies to witness! After all, some bucket lists can include crazy pictures with the lions of Gir.

If you’re planning a holiday in the wilderness, check this out too : A walk through 5 Best Wildlife Resorts In India

Also follow India Chalk on Instagram for more amazing travel content. You can share your travel story with us. Reach out to us on email at contact[at]ndiachalk[dot]com. This blog is curated by India Chalk and written by Riya Jogi.