Welcome to the regal realm of the Asiatic lion at the Gir National Park in the Junagarh district of Gujarat. Once the private hunting grounds of the erstwhile Nawab of Junagarh, the park now stretches over an expanse of 1412km2. Lion Safari Tours in Gir offer the thrill of watching the majestic Asiatic lions in their natural habitat.
The Topography
A narrow road through Sasan Gir Village takes you to Gir National Park. Rugged terrain, flat grasslands, gently rolling hilly tracts and elevations ranging from 150m to 530m above the sea level; define the topography of Gir. The sanctuary is fed by seven rivers with River Hiren being the only perennial source of water at Gir.
Vegetation of Gir National Park
Gir National Part is part of Kathiawar-Gir dry deciduous forests eco-region. The vegetation generally comprises of arid deciduous teaks with patches of semi-arid grasslands. A distinct belt of broad-leaf evergreens is found along the riverine area of the sanctuary.
Inhabitants of Gir National Park
Mammals & Other species
The Asiatic lion is the undisputed king of the jungle at Gir. With a population of over 500 lions and over 300 leopards, Gir is a perfect choice for big game wild life safari tours. Sambar deer, the engendered black buck, wild boar, striped hyena, spotted jungle cats, chausingha (four horned antelope) and pangolins are some of the mammals of Gir. The sanctuary is also home to various poisonous snakes like krait & viper and dangerous snake killers like honey badger & Indian mongoose. Gir is also a breeding ground for marshy crocodiles.
Birds in Gir
The lions of Gir overshadow the thriving birdlife in the sanctuary. With over 300 species of birds, including Malabar whistling thrush, paradise flycatcher, crested serpent eagle, pelicans, painted storks, king vulture, and jungle bush quail; Gir is a birdwatcher?s delight.
Lion Safari Tours in Gir
Access to Gir National Park is only available after obtaining a safari permit. Thereafter you can book a vehicle and a guide for a ride through one of the seven safari routes assigned to you. A high population of lions resides in the park and with some good timing & luck you are sure to spot the king of Gir. Catch a lion in action as he gets ready for a kill or a lioness tending to her frolicking cubs- Gir offers it all. Drink in the sights and sounds of the jungle as your jeep traverses through the kingdom of majestic Asiatic lions.
Other Attractions in Gir National Park
Tulsi Shyam Temple
Tulsi Shyam Temple is located in the middle of the forest. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple is known for its hot water springs that find a mention in Puranas as Taptodak.
Kamleshwar Dam- This scenic dam, built over Hiran River, is the lifeline of Gir. You may spot marshy crocodiles in this area.
Best Time to Visit
Gir National Park is open from mid October to mid June. The peak tourist season in Gir is from November to February, when the weather is ambient. In summer months, from March to May, though it?s very hot & uncomfortable, there are a lot of chances of spotting big game as they venture near watering holes.
How to Reach
By Air- Diu Airport, located at a distance of around 65kms is the nearest airport.
By Rail- Veraval Railway Staion (72kms) and Junagarh railhead (80kms) are the closest railway stations, connecting Sasan Gir to the rest of the cities in the region.
By Road- A network of well-developed roads & highways connect Gir National Park to the major cities in the area.
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