A Complete Guide to Exploring Gir National Park

Located in the state of Gujarat, Gir National Park spreads over 545 square miles of hilly, dry scrubland. Home to rare species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects, the Gir National Park is famous for preserving Asiatic Lions. The park has the appropriate ecosystem making it a preferred habitat for animals such as jackals, leopards, antelope, and deer.

How to reach Gir National Park, Gujarat?

The national park can be accessed by air, train, and road. Here are your travel options-

By road: You can catch a bus from the nearby cities of Rajkot, Mumbai, Dwarka, Ahmedabad, and Surat. The buses take you back to Junagadh, where you can reach your destination through a private taxi.

By train: Get off at the Veraval Railway Station or the Junagadh Railway Station if you are travelling by train. Take a private taxi from the station and reach Gir National Park easily.

By air: The nearest airport to the national park is located in Rajkot. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport and reach the national park within a few hours.

What is the most suitable time to visit the national park?

The ideal time to visit the park is during the winter, i.e., from December to March, due to the pleasant weather conditions. The summer season, from April to May, the summer season can be quite hot and humid. However, the idle time for spotting wildlife is the summer season.

The national park in Gujarat is closed from 16th June to 15th October.

Things to do in Gir National Park

Jungle Safari: A jungle or lion safari is the best way to observe the majestic animals in their natural environment. You have two options – a Jeep safari or a walking safari. You will get a guide to help you find animals in both of these options. The timings of the jungle safari depend upon the season.

Bird watching: Gir National Park is home to many rare species of birds. So, don’t leave without taking advantage of the bird-watching opportunity. The best time for this activity is between December and January. This is because many migratory birds visit the national park at this time of year.  Bonnell’s eagle, pygmy woodpecker, and woodpecker’s flamingo are among the magnificent birds you can expect to find in the Gir National Park, Gujarat.

Tribal Festival: Gir is home to the Maldharis and Siddis tribes. Each year the tribes celebrate several festivals. The coolest part is that they allow outsiders to participate in their celebrations. We say, don’t pass up this chance to have fun while learning about tribal cultures. The two festivals that we will recommend you take part in are: Dang Darbar, which is celebrated right before Holi and Chitra Vichitra fair, celebrated 14 days after the Dang Darbar Festival!

Places to stay near Gir National Park

There are numerous accommodations near the national park in Gujarat. There are budget-friendly and luxury hotels near Gir National Park, Gujarat, to make your stay comfortable and hassle-free. The budget stays include OYO 38788 Hotel Rajshree, OYO 24945 Hello Gir Athiz Resort and Spa, and OYO 40092 Hotel Morry’z. The Gir Jungle Lodge Resort is located near the entrance of the national park in Gujarat. Apart from these, you can find the Gateway Hotel Gir Forest, Woods at Sasan, and Gir Pride Resort for a comfortable stay.

Tips for your visit to the National Park

• The most popular time to visit the national park is December through March. It gets extremely crowded during these peak months, leading to long waits. Travel during the hot and dry season (from March through May) to see animals easily near the water’s edge.
• Bookings for the jungle safari can be made up to three months in advance and 48 hours before a scheduled tour. Gir Jungle Trail permits are limited and can only be ordered online because there is a 30-vehicle limit for the national park.
• Jeep tours begin at 6:30 a.m., 9 a.m., and 3 p.m. in Gir National Park, open from mid-October to mid-June. Year-round, from Thursday to Tuesday (closed on Wednesday), from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., and from 3 p.m. to dusk, the Gir Interpretation Zone is accessible (around 5 p.m.).
• Take a morning safari to see the lions at their most active. Lions usually sleep during the day and are difficult to locate on a mid-day tour.

In a Nutshell

The national park in Gujarat is a famous tourist spot. Home to the two most prized predators, the national park provides you with a lifetime experience. Book a comfortable OYO room near the national park and experience nature in its truest form. Rest assured of the facilities and service.

Now that your guide is ready pack up your bags because the wild is calling you!