Gir National Park & Sanctuary - Gujarat - गिर राष्ट्रीय उद्यान
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Gir National Park, established in the Junagarh district of Gujarat, is spread over an area of 1412 Sq km. The park holds the distinction of being the only natural habitat of Asiatic Lions in the entire world. The population of the Asiatic lions in Gir is estimated to be somewhere around 300. Gir Wildlife Sanctuary of India is also home to a race of cattle herders, known as the Maldharis. The sanctuary has Tulsi Shyam and Kankai Mata sulphur springs inside its premises, along with a number of Hindu worship places. The best time to visit the Gir Wildlife Park of Gujarat is during the period of mid-October to mid-June.
Located in the south west of the Saurashtra peninsula, the Gir National Park is a heaven to about 300 Asiatic lions. The 1,412.13 Sq. km. Park has a rugged terrain and the steep rocky hillsides are covered in mixed deciduous forests. There are teak, ber, flame of the forest and banyan trees. Streams run throuh the deep ravines.The lions, a smaller more compact version of their African cousins, are best viewed at dawn or dusk when they are on the move. Gir has also nearly 210 leopards and numerous chital, nilgai, chinkara, the four horned antelope and wild boar. Marsh crocodiles are often seen alongits rivers. The forest is rich in bird lif and the paradise flycatcher, black headed cuckoo shrike, pied woodpecker, Bonelli's eagle, creste~ serpent eagle, painted sandgrouse, bush quail and grey partridge are among the variety that is found here .
Situated about 65 km SE of Junagarh district in the state of Gujarat in South West India, the National Park was established on 18th September, 1965, as a Forest Reserve, primarily to conserve the Asiatic lion-classified as one of the World's most threatened species. Now Gir National Park is the only remaining place in the world, where one is likely to see the Asiatic Lion. The sanctuary covers a total area of 1,412 Sq. km of which 258 sq.km at the core forms the National park. Permits are required to enter this part of the sanctuary.
The land is rugged with deep ravines, steep rocky hills and plenty of rivers. The vegetation, mainly along the main rivers and streams is mixed deciduous, with Teak, Acacia, Jamun, Tendu and Dhak trees, interspersed with large patches of grasslands and offers the visitor long pleasant drives, through the thick forest cover. These trees are mostly broad leaved and evergreen, giving the area a cool shade and moisture content. The Gir forest is dry for most of the year with scrub trees, like babul and few flowering trees. Prosopis and Casuarina have been planted in the coastal border as part of the aforestation plan.
The Asiatic lion once had a wide range in natural territory running from NW India through Persia to Arabia. But unfortunately hunted as a coveted trophy item during the British Raj era, it is now only found in the Gir forest of Gujarat. The famine of 1899 so decimated the Asiatic lion population that Lord Curzon cancelled his shoot at Gir, where he was staying as the guest of Nawab Junagadh. Curzon persuaded the Nawab to protect the remaining lions. In 1965, the India Government declared this place as a National park. The lion population which had sunk to an alarming two dozen in the early 20th century has slowly climbed over the years since, and now numbers about 300.
Within the sanctuary, there are numerous human settlements of cattle herders called Maldharis. There are also places of Hindu worship and pilgrimage and sulphur springs at Tulsi Shyam and Kankai Mata. At the edge of the park there are good populations of Indian Gazelle, protected by the religious sentiment of the local people.
Apart from the Asiatic lion, other wild attractions in the sanctuary are Nilgai, Chinkara, Sambhar, Black Bucks, the four horned Antelope, Wild Boar, crocodile, Indian Flying Foe, Grey Musk Shrew, Indian Hare, Pale Hedgehog, Small Indian Mangoose, Small Indian Civet, Indian Pangolin, Indian Porcupine, Ratel, Indian Fox and Jackal. The three smaller wildcats - the Jungle Cat, Desert Cat and the Rusty Spotted Cat, also inhabit Gir forest. The forest is also rich in bird life, and an estimated of 300 species are found inhabiting Gir National Park over the years, the most common is the peafowl.
There are 6 routes in the park - the longest is 31km. Some of the most popular routes for a drive are the Sasan-Kamaleshwar Dam, the Sasan-Kankai, the Sasan-Chodavdi and the Sasan-Tulsishyam routes. You may occasionally be able to see lions with the help of tracker and guide. The Gir forestry department provides jeeps and guides on a daily basis.
All visitors to Gir are required to obtain entry permits from the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge Office. The permits cost Rs 15 for the first day, and Rs 7.50 for every subsequent day. Extra charges are levied for cameras and for hiring vehicles: a jeep ride will cost about Rs 100 per person, and still camera fees range from Rs 50 (for Indians) Guide charges are, respectively, Rs 50.
The Gujarat State Tourism corporation offers a special two day package tour to the Sasan Gir Sanctuary. The trip includes reception at Keshod, the nearest airport (an 80 minute flight from Mumbai, and 90 km (56 miles) from sanctuary), accommodation at the forest Lodge, a sanctuary tour, and a visit to Somnath.
Three unusual reserves, the Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary, where large numbers of water-birds can be seen; the bare saline flats o the Rann of Kutch, incredibly the home of the Indian wild ass and the spectacular Flamingo Island where nesting colonies of flamingoes are be seen, make Gujarat an exciting place for wildlife enthusiasts.
No need to give any introduction to this sole surviving natural habitat of the Asiatic Lions. Popularly known as Sasangir, this national park is blessed with some of the most diverse wild attractions and natural surroundings.
Because of less rainfall water always remains a critical factor in the well being of the forest. At times the waterholes are required to be replenished through water tankers from outside and the park staff maintains around 350 of such waterholes.
The Gir National Park, was established on 18th September, 1965, as a Forest Reserve, primarily to conserve the Asiatic lion. The total area under national park status is about 2,450 hectares. It is located in the Junagadh District of Gujarat, about 65 km south-east of Junagadh city, and 90 km east of Keshod Airport, in the Kathiawar (Saurashtra) Peninsula. Sasan, with a forest rest-house, is the headquarters of the sanctuary.The Gir is a mixed deciduous type of forest with teak, ber, flame of the forest, jamun, a variety of acacia, particularly babul. It is a hilly tract with plenty of rivers, and offers the visitor long pleasant drives, through the thick forest cover.
Gir National Park is the only remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion, which has been confined to this forest, since 1884 ( about 239 lions were reported in 1985 ).The Asiatic lion is slightly smaller than its African cousin, nevertheless, a large male lion of the Gir is quite a sight to behold. The best way to observe the big cats is, of course, in their natural surroundings, at dawn and dusk, when they are on the prowl. The Forest Department does arrange lion shows every Sunday, where the spectators can watch prides of lions on the hunt.There are guided trips available, to watch these magnificent animals from a very close range.
The main territories of this territorial predator outside Gir in Gujarat include Nagwa Beach in Diu, Sutrapada, Palitana, Mahuva, Savarkundla, Mitiyala, Keshod, Maliya Hatina, and Girnar.
The unique ecosystem of Gir herbivores about 38 species of mammals, around 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and more than 2000 species of insects. The main carnivores of the Gir are the Asiatic lion, leopard, jungle cat, hyaena, jackal, mongoose, civet cat, and ratel. Desert cats & rusty spotted cats are very rare. The main herbivores of the Gir are Chital, Nilgai, Sambar, Four horned antelope, Chinkara & Wild boar. In the adjoining Gir forest there is a small population of blackbuck.
The avifauna is represented in plenty by more than 300 species of birds most of which are resident. The Main scavnger bird is the vulture of which about 6 species have been recorded. Some of the typical birds of Gir are Crested serpent eagle, Bonnali's eagle, crested hawk eagle, King vulture, Brown fish Owl, Great Horned Owl, Bush Quail, Pygmy Woodpecker, Black headed Oriole, Crested swift and Indian Pitta. Grey Hornbill is now extinct from the area.
Apart from these extremely popular species, you may also watch Indian Gazelle, Four-horned Antelope, Small Indian Mongoose, Indian Flying Foe, Chital, Nilgai, Pale Hedgehog, Black Bucks, Wild Boar, Sambar, Grey Musk Shrew, Indian Hare, Chinkara, etc. Other lesser-known animal species seen at the park include Small Indian Civet, Indian Pangolin, Indian Porcupine, Ratel, Indian Fox, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Desert Cat, Rusty Spotted Cat, etc.
Wildlife viewing in the Girs is best done, by driving around the forest. The best drives from Sasan are, to Baval Chowk and Kankai, to Chodavdi and Tulsishyam, and to Kamaleshwar dam. Though a sturdy car would do, a jeep is definitely more appropriate.
Three unusual reserves, the Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary - home to several water-birds, the Little Rann of Kutch - home of the Indian wild ass, and the fascinating Flamingo Island, render the state of Gujarat a virtual haven for wildlife buffs
Other animal residents of the Gir national park are Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli's Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo etc.
Taxis as well as buses are easily available from Junagarh. Distance of 400 km from Ahmedabad via Rajkot, Junagadh and Mendarda. State Transport buses are also available from Junagadh via Mendarda (65 km) and Veraval (42 km) between November and June
Gir Birding Lodge
Lion Safari Camp
Sinh Sadan Guest House
Lion Safari Lodge (Taj)
Sasan Gir
Phone : 022-2022524, 3322333
Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge (Govt)
Forest Department Guest House
Wildlife division,
Sasan Gir,
Junagarh Dist
Tel.: 02877-85521, 85528
Facilities : Located on the main road in an old house, the lodge provides good accommodation and meals at reasonable rates.
Maneland Jungle lodge
Sasan Gir
Ph: 02877-85555
Distance : 2km from Sasan
Facilities: Double and single, bath attached rooms with a restaurant serving Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisine. Wildlife viewing by jeep safari, Nature walks and sightseeing tours to the nearby by tribal villages are provided. To and fro transport from Delhi, Sawai Madhopur or Jaipur can be arranged.
Sasan Gir,
Junagadh,
The Conservator of Forests,
Sardar Baug,
Junagadh.
Dy. Conservator of Forests,
Sasan dir,
District Junagarh.
Location: 64 km from Junagadh and 32 km from Verawal
Core Area : 258 Sq km
Nearest Town : Veraval (42 km)
Best Time: December-mid June (cl during monsoon till mid October)
Accommodation : Lion Safari Lodge
How to get there : Rail-Sasan Gir (1 km) Air-Keshod (86 km)
Nearest Access : Junagadh (42 km)
Main Wildlife Found : Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Chowsingha
Main Attractions: The only abode of the Asiatic Lion in the whole world
Located in the south west of the Saurashtra peninsula, the Gir National Park is a heaven to about 300 Asiatic lions. The 1,412.13 Sq. km. Park has a rugged terrain and the steep rocky hillsides are covered in mixed deciduous forests. There are teak, ber, flame of the forest and banyan trees. Streams run throuh the deep ravines.The lions, a smaller more compact version of their African cousins, are best viewed at dawn or dusk when they are on the move. Gir has also nearly 210 leopards and numerous chital, nilgai, chinkara, the four horned antelope and wild boar. Marsh crocodiles are often seen alongits rivers. The forest is rich in bird lif and the paradise flycatcher, black headed cuckoo shrike, pied woodpecker, Bonelli's eagle, creste~ serpent eagle, painted sandgrouse, bush quail and grey partridge are among the variety that is found here .
Situated about 65 km SE of Junagarh district in the state of Gujarat in South West India, the National Park was established on 18th September, 1965, as a Forest Reserve, primarily to conserve the Asiatic lion-classified as one of the World's most threatened species. Now Gir National Park is the only remaining place in the world, where one is likely to see the Asiatic Lion. The sanctuary covers a total area of 1,412 Sq. km of which 258 sq.km at the core forms the National park. Permits are required to enter this part of the sanctuary.
The land is rugged with deep ravines, steep rocky hills and plenty of rivers. The vegetation, mainly along the main rivers and streams is mixed deciduous, with Teak, Acacia, Jamun, Tendu and Dhak trees, interspersed with large patches of grasslands and offers the visitor long pleasant drives, through the thick forest cover. These trees are mostly broad leaved and evergreen, giving the area a cool shade and moisture content. The Gir forest is dry for most of the year with scrub trees, like babul and few flowering trees. Prosopis and Casuarina have been planted in the coastal border as part of the aforestation plan.
The Asiatic lion once had a wide range in natural territory running from NW India through Persia to Arabia. But unfortunately hunted as a coveted trophy item during the British Raj era, it is now only found in the Gir forest of Gujarat. The famine of 1899 so decimated the Asiatic lion population that Lord Curzon cancelled his shoot at Gir, where he was staying as the guest of Nawab Junagadh. Curzon persuaded the Nawab to protect the remaining lions. In 1965, the India Government declared this place as a National park. The lion population which had sunk to an alarming two dozen in the early 20th century has slowly climbed over the years since, and now numbers about 300.
Within the sanctuary, there are numerous human settlements of cattle herders called Maldharis. There are also places of Hindu worship and pilgrimage and sulphur springs at Tulsi Shyam and Kankai Mata. At the edge of the park there are good populations of Indian Gazelle, protected by the religious sentiment of the local people.
Apart from the Asiatic lion, other wild attractions in the sanctuary are Nilgai, Chinkara, Sambhar, Black Bucks, the four horned Antelope, Wild Boar, crocodile, Indian Flying Foe, Grey Musk Shrew, Indian Hare, Pale Hedgehog, Small Indian Mangoose, Small Indian Civet, Indian Pangolin, Indian Porcupine, Ratel, Indian Fox and Jackal. The three smaller wildcats - the Jungle Cat, Desert Cat and the Rusty Spotted Cat, also inhabit Gir forest. The forest is also rich in bird life, and an estimated of 300 species are found inhabiting Gir National Park over the years, the most common is the peafowl.
There are 6 routes in the park - the longest is 31km. Some of the most popular routes for a drive are the Sasan-Kamaleshwar Dam, the Sasan-Kankai, the Sasan-Chodavdi and the Sasan-Tulsishyam routes. You may occasionally be able to see lions with the help of tracker and guide. The Gir forestry department provides jeeps and guides on a daily basis.
All visitors to Gir are required to obtain entry permits from the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge Office. The permits cost Rs 15 for the first day, and Rs 7.50 for every subsequent day. Extra charges are levied for cameras and for hiring vehicles: a jeep ride will cost about Rs 100 per person, and still camera fees range from Rs 50 (for Indians) Guide charges are, respectively, Rs 50.
The Gujarat State Tourism corporation offers a special two day package tour to the Sasan Gir Sanctuary. The trip includes reception at Keshod, the nearest airport (an 80 minute flight from Mumbai, and 90 km (56 miles) from sanctuary), accommodation at the forest Lodge, a sanctuary tour, and a visit to Somnath.
Three unusual reserves, the Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary, where large numbers of water-birds can be seen; the bare saline flats o the Rann of Kutch, incredibly the home of the Indian wild ass and the spectacular Flamingo Island where nesting colonies of flamingoes are be seen, make Gujarat an exciting place for wildlife enthusiasts.
No need to give any introduction to this sole surviving natural habitat of the Asiatic Lions. Popularly known as Sasangir, this national park is blessed with some of the most diverse wild attractions and natural surroundings.
The Topography
The state of Gujarat has some splendid wildlife reserves that are quite out of the ordinary. The Gir National Park is the only home in India of the Asiatic Lion of which there are nearly 300 in the park. This sanctuary lies in the Gujarat peninsula in South West India and is gifted with a terrain that is rugged with low hills and the vegetation is full of mixed deciduous, with stands of Teak, Acacia, Jamun, Tendu and Dhak trees, interspersed with large patches of grasslands. On the hills of the trees are sparse and stunted.Best Time to Visit Gir Forest
Wildlife enthusiasts can visit Gir park throughout the year, but the best period to visit the Gir Sanctuary is between the months of November and June. Even if Gir National Park is one of the hottest and most visited wildlife reserves within India still the period one should visit this park is during the months of Mid October-Mid June. November and February is the best time for sighting the lions, who generally retire to the forest's interior during the summer.Climate
From the three common seasons of summer, winter and monsoon, summer takes the longest stretch, in which the average minimum and maximum temperature ranges between 10ēC to nearly 45ēC. The hottest months recorded in Gir are April and May. The rains bring some relief from the heat during the monsoons period of, starting from middle of June and September. The maximum recorded during this period in the area is around 1,866 mm and the minimum recorded being 199mm.Because of less rainfall water always remains a critical factor in the well being of the forest. At times the waterholes are required to be replenished through water tankers from outside and the park staff maintains around 350 of such waterholes.
About Gir Wildlife Sanctaury
In the southwest of the peninsular state of Gujarat, lies the 116 square-mile Gir sanctuary created to protect the last wild population of Lion outside the African regions. Since 1913 when the Lion population over here fell drastically to just 20 animals, the numbers have increased to around 300. The Asiatic lion is slightly smaller than its African cousin is and its mane is also smaller.The Gir National Park, was established on 18th September, 1965, as a Forest Reserve, primarily to conserve the Asiatic lion. The total area under national park status is about 2,450 hectares. It is located in the Junagadh District of Gujarat, about 65 km south-east of Junagadh city, and 90 km east of Keshod Airport, in the Kathiawar (Saurashtra) Peninsula. Sasan, with a forest rest-house, is the headquarters of the sanctuary.The Gir is a mixed deciduous type of forest with teak, ber, flame of the forest, jamun, a variety of acacia, particularly babul. It is a hilly tract with plenty of rivers, and offers the visitor long pleasant drives, through the thick forest cover.
Gir National Park is the only remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion, which has been confined to this forest, since 1884 ( about 239 lions were reported in 1985 ).The Asiatic lion is slightly smaller than its African cousin, nevertheless, a large male lion of the Gir is quite a sight to behold. The best way to observe the big cats is, of course, in their natural surroundings, at dawn and dusk, when they are on the prowl. The Forest Department does arrange lion shows every Sunday, where the spectators can watch prides of lions on the hunt.There are guided trips available, to watch these magnificent animals from a very close range.
The Lion King (Gir National Park)
Gir Sanctuary is the last and only home of the critically endangered Asiatic Lion. These lions are a smaller more compact version of their African version, and are best viewed at dawn or dusk when they are on the move. The major difference between the two is that the African Lion appears larger than the Indian Lion because of its large and luxuriant mane.Extension Of The Sanctuary
In the past Gir had a much bigger coverage area. After Indian government placed a total ban on killing of Lions in 1955, within the time span of three years the area estimation came around 2,560-sq-km and the Lion population was estimated at 287. Since then, the forest area very quickly got reduced in area to 1,452-sq-km. In 1965, the Gujarat government declared Gir forest as a sanctuary and in 1975; part of the sanctuary was declared as a National Park. And with the success of the protection program there is an incredible increase in the Lion population too, from 177 in 1974 to around 300 in 1995.The main territories of this territorial predator outside Gir in Gujarat include Nagwa Beach in Diu, Sutrapada, Palitana, Mahuva, Savarkundla, Mitiyala, Keshod, Maliya Hatina, and Girnar.
Flora in Gir National Park
The Gir National Park is a mixed deciduous forest with teak, flame of the forest, some Acacia and Banyan trees. A distinct belt of vegetation is found along the main rivers and streams. Species like the Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus and Amli are found here. These trees are mostly broad leaved and evergreen, giving the area a cool shade and the moisture content.Fauna
The topography of Gir National Park of India is formed of low hills, covered with mixed deciduous trees like Teak, Acacia, Jamun, Tendu and Dhak. Dotting the landscape are large patches of grasslands. The area along the main rivers and streams of the park boasts of a distinctive stretch of vegetation. The species found there include Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus and Amli trees. The coastal borders of Gir Wildlife Park were planted with Prosopis and Casuarinas as part of the afforestation plan carried out there.The unique ecosystem of Gir herbivores about 38 species of mammals, around 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and more than 2000 species of insects. The main carnivores of the Gir are the Asiatic lion, leopard, jungle cat, hyaena, jackal, mongoose, civet cat, and ratel. Desert cats & rusty spotted cats are very rare. The main herbivores of the Gir are Chital, Nilgai, Sambar, Four horned antelope, Chinkara & Wild boar. In the adjoining Gir forest there is a small population of blackbuck.
The avifauna is represented in plenty by more than 300 species of birds most of which are resident. The Main scavnger bird is the vulture of which about 6 species have been recorded. Some of the typical birds of Gir are Crested serpent eagle, Bonnali's eagle, crested hawk eagle, King vulture, Brown fish Owl, Great Horned Owl, Bush Quail, Pygmy Woodpecker, Black headed Oriole, Crested swift and Indian Pitta. Grey Hornbill is now extinct from the area.
Wildlife
Gir Wildlife Sanctuary of Gujarat serves as the only abode of the Asiatic lions in the whole world. It is the only place where you can find the majestic animals in their natural habitat. The best time to sight an Asiatic Lion is dawn or dusk, when they are freely roaming in the jungle. Gir Wildlife Park of Gujarat is also quite renowned for housing a significant population of leopards, which is presently estimated to be around 210.Apart from these extremely popular species, you may also watch Indian Gazelle, Four-horned Antelope, Small Indian Mongoose, Indian Flying Foe, Chital, Nilgai, Pale Hedgehog, Black Bucks, Wild Boar, Sambar, Grey Musk Shrew, Indian Hare, Chinkara, etc. Other lesser-known animal species seen at the park include Small Indian Civet, Indian Pangolin, Indian Porcupine, Ratel, Indian Fox, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Desert Cat, Rusty Spotted Cat, etc.
Wildlife viewing in the Girs is best done, by driving around the forest. The best drives from Sasan are, to Baval Chowk and Kankai, to Chodavdi and Tulsishyam, and to Kamaleshwar dam. Though a sturdy car would do, a jeep is definitely more appropriate.
Three unusual reserves, the Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary - home to several water-birds, the Little Rann of Kutch - home of the Indian wild ass, and the fascinating Flamingo Island, render the state of Gujarat a virtual haven for wildlife buffs
Reptiles
Mash crocodiles can be easily spotted at Kamleshwar Dam, situated inside premises of the Gir National Park. Then, there is its snake population, consisting of Indian Rock Python, Indian Cobra, Common Krait, Saw Scaled Viper, Russell's Viper, etc.Bird Species
As many as 300 species of birds can be found inhabiting the forests of the Gir Wildlife Park, situated in the state of Gujarat. The wide variety of birds offered by the park makes it a heaven for bird watchers. The most commonly found species include Bush Quail, Paradise Flycatcher, Painted Sandgrouse, Pied Woodpecker, Creset Serpent Eagle, Black Headed Cuckoo Shrike, Bonelli's Eagle and Grey Patridge.Major Wildlife Attractions in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
In India the Lion population is spread across the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. But Gir is not just about Lions, the second most commonly found predator in the Gir is Leopard. Infact, Gir national park is also home to one of the largest Leopard populations in any park in India, and especially in the hotter season they can sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges.Other animal residents of the Gir national park are Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli's Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo etc.
Other Attractions in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
The Gir National Park is steeped in history and folklore. It boasts of temples of great antiquity, like Kankai Mata and Tulsishyam, a place of pilgrimage with hot springs. The forest is famous for its cattle herders, the Madharis, whose buffaloes form a substantial part of the lions' meals. Extremely hospitable, the Madharis are herders, whose lifestyle has changed little over the years, and their folklore and traditions are a unique record of coexistence of humans with lions.Jeep Safari
The best way to observe the big cats is, of course, in their natural surroundings, at dawn and dusk, when they are on the prowl. Wildlife viewing in the Gir's is best done, by driving via jeep around the forest.How to Reach
By Air
Nearest airport is Keshod 90 km via Veraval. There are daily flights from Mumbai to Keshod. Drive to Gir from Keshod or Rajkot (166 km) airports.By Rail
Sasan railway station, situated one km away, is the nearest to Gir.Meter gauge rail line of 395 km from Ahemedabad. There is also a railway station at Sasan Gir (1 km).By Road
Gir is situated at a distance of 400 km from Ahmedabad via Rajkot, Junagadh and Mendarda. State Transport buses are easily available from Junagadh and Veraval to Gir, between November and June.Taxis as well as buses are easily available from Junagarh. Distance of 400 km from Ahmedabad via Rajkot, Junagadh and Mendarda. State Transport buses are also available from Junagadh via Mendarda (65 km) and Veraval (42 km) between November and June
Accommodation
Wildlife Resorts in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
The Gir LodgeGir Birding Lodge
Lion Safari Camp
Sinh Sadan Guest House
Lion Safari Lodge (Taj)
Sasan Gir
Phone : 022-2022524, 3322333
Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge (Govt)
Forest Department Guest House
Wildlife division,
Sasan Gir,
Junagarh Dist
Tel.: 02877-85521, 85528
Facilities : Located on the main road in an old house, the lodge provides good accommodation and meals at reasonable rates.
Maneland Jungle lodge
Sasan Gir
Ph: 02877-85555
Distance : 2km from Sasan
Facilities: Double and single, bath attached rooms with a restaurant serving Indian, Continental and Chinese cuisine. Wildlife viewing by jeep safari, Nature walks and sightseeing tours to the nearby by tribal villages are provided. To and fro transport from Delhi, Sawai Madhopur or Jaipur can be arranged.
Contacts
The Sanctuary Superintendent,Sasan Gir,
Junagadh,
The Conservator of Forests,
Sardar Baug,
Junagadh.
Dy. Conservator of Forests,
Sasan dir,
District Junagarh.
General Information
Place : Sasan Gir, Junagarh district, GujaratLocation: 64 km from Junagadh and 32 km from Verawal
Core Area : 258 Sq km
Nearest Town : Veraval (42 km)
Best Time: December-mid June (cl during monsoon till mid October)
Accommodation : Lion Safari Lodge
How to get there : Rail-Sasan Gir (1 km) Air-Keshod (86 km)
Nearest Access : Junagadh (42 km)
Main Wildlife Found : Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Chowsingha
Main Attractions: The only abode of the Asiatic Lion in the whole world
 Photo by : anshuman gondalia in flickr |
 Photo by : nitesh3d in flickr |
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 Photo by : Suramya Tomar in flickr |
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 Photo by : drssengupta in webshots |
 Photo by : drssengupta in webshots |
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 Photo by : drssengupta in webshots |
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 Photo by : Divyarajsinh in panoramio |
 Photo by : Divyarajsinh in panoramio |
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