Gir National Park

Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and national park located in the western Indian state of Gujarat. It is the only natural habitat of the Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) in the world. The park is one of India's most important protected areas due to its critical role in the conservation of this endangered species.

Location & Geography

Location : Junagadh district, Gujarat, western India.
Coordinates : Between 21°08' to 21°38' N latitude and 70°28' to 70°57' E longitude.
Area : Approx. 1,412 square kilometers (258 sq. km is the core area as National Park, and the rest is a sanctuary).
Soil : Undulating terrain, interspersed with hills, plateaus, and grasslands.
Water Sources : Rivers like Hiran, Shetrunji, Datardi and several perennial and seasonal streams flow through the park.

Key Attraction : Asiatic Lions

• Gir is the last abode of Asiatic lions, which once roamed across the Middle East and India.
• Due to habitat loss and hunting, their numbers dwindled drastically by the early 20th century.
• Conservation Efforts by the Indian government and local communities (especially the Maldhari tribes) have brought the lion population back from the brink.
• As of the 2020 lion census, there were 674 Asiatic lions in the Gir landscape — a significant increase from 411 in 2010.

Climate

• Summer (March to June): Hot and dry; temperatures can reach 45°C.
• Monsoon (July to September): Park remains closed due to heavy rainfall.
• Winter (October to February): Pleasant weather, best time to visit.

History & Conservation

• Declared a sanctuary in 1965 and a national park in 1975.
• Once on the brink of extinction, the Asiatic lion population was down to around 12 individuals in early 20th century.
• Due to the efforts of the Nawab of Junagadh and later the Government of India, Gir became a conservation success story.
• Project Lion and Eco-Development Projects have contributed to habitat restoration and reducing human-animal conflict.

Flora

The vegetation in Gir is typical of a dry deciduous forest and includes:

Trees - Dhak (Butea monosperma), Kesar (Pterocarpus santalinus), Acacia species, Zizyphus, Babool (Acacia nilotica), Banyan, and Palash.
Shrubs and Grasses - Various native shrubs and grasses provide excellent cover and forage for herbivores.

The park also has several seasonal water bodies and streams that support wildlife.

Fauna

Gir National Park is best known for the Asiatic lion, which was once on the brink of extinction. Conservation efforts have helped the population rebound.

Asiatic Lion - Gir is the only place in the world where the Asiatic lion survives in the wild. The population as per the 2020 census is estimated to be around 674 lions.

Other Mammals - Leopard, Indian leopard, jungle cat, hyena, Indian wolf, sloth bear, golden jackal, chinkara (Indian gazelle), sambar deer, spotted deer (chital), nilgai (blue bull), wild boar, and Indian pangolin.

Birds - Over 300 species, including the crested serpent eagle, peafowl, Indian rollers, and various migratory birds.

Reptiles - Mugger crocodile, Indian python, monitor lizards, and various snakes.

Conservation Significance

• Gir National Park is a critical conservation site for the Asiatic lion and has played a pivotal role in preventing its extinction.
• It is part of the Project Lion initiated by the Indian government.
• The park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate due to its unique biodiversity and importance.

Wildlife Safaris

Gir is the only place in the world where you can see Asiatic Lions in their natural habitat. It’s one of India’s premier wildlife safari destinations, known for its diverse ecosystem, thrilling predator sightings, and rich birdlife.

Gir Jungle Trail Safari : The Gir Jungle Trail Safari in Gir National Park, Gujarat, offers a thrilling 3-hour open jeep ride through the park’s core area, home to the majestic Asiatic Lion. Conducted in three time slots daily, the safari provides a chance to spot lions, leopards, deer, crocodiles, and over 300 bird species in their natural habitat. Permits must be booked in advance through the official website, and safaris are accompanied by licensed guides and drivers. The best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent.

Devalia Safari Park : Devalia Safari Park, also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone, is a fenced eco-tourism zone near Sasan Gir that offers quick and guaranteed sightings of Asiatic Lions and other wildlife. The safari lasts about 30–45 minutes and is conducted via bus or jeep. It's ideal for visitors with limited time or those visiting during Gir National Park's monsoon closure.

Tourism & Facilities

• Gir is a popular eco-tourism destination, especially for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
• Safari vehicles are available to explore the park under regulated conditions.
• The best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is cooler, and animals are more visible near waterholes.
• There are visitor centers, accommodation options, and guided tours available.

Cultural & Local Communities

The region around Gir is inhabited by tribal communities like the Maldharis, who have traditionally coexisted with the wildlife. Their involvement in conservation programs and sustainable living practices has been crucial for preserving the park's ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit

The park is generally open from mid-October to mid-June. The winter months (November to February) offer a comfortable climate for visitors.

How to Reach

By Road : Gir National Park is well connected by road and is about 65 km from Junagadh and 330 km from Ahmedabad. Regular buses, taxis, and private vehicles can be used to reach the park from nearby cities.

By Train : The nearest railway station to Gir National Park is Junagadh Railway Station, about 60 km away. From Junagadh, taxis and buses are available to reach the park.

By Air : The nearest airport to Gir National Park is Diu Airport, about 60 km away, with limited domestic flights.
Alternatively, Rajkot Airport (approximately 120 km) and Saurashtra Airport, Rajkot offer better connectivity with regular flights from major Indian cities.