Best places to visit in Gir National Park
Best places to visit in Gir National Park
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat is the last wild refuge of the majestic Asiatic lion, a subspecies once on the brink of extinction that has made a remarkable comeback thanks to dedicated conservation efforts. Covering over 1,400 square kilometers of dry deciduous forest, scrubland, and grassland in the Saurashtra region, Gir also harbors leopards, hyenas, jackals, and over 300 bird species. Guided jeep safaris through the forest offer genuinely exciting encounters with the regal Asiatic lion and the rich biodiversity of this unique protected area.
Sasan Gir Safari Zone
→Sasan Gir Jungle Safari is the only place in the world to spot the endangered Asiatic lion in its natural wild habitat — making it one of the most exclusive wildlife experiences on earth. The 3-hour jeep safari through 1,412 sq km of dry deciduous forest offers sightings of 600+ Asiatic lions, leopards, hyenas, and 300+ bird species. Book your Gir safari permit online well in advance at girlion.gujarat.gov.in. Open October to June.
Kamleshwar Dam
→Kamleshwar Dam is the main reservoir inside Gir National Park and the lifeline of the Gir ecosystem. A scenic viewpoint and crocodile-spotting hotspot, the dam attracts marsh crocodiles year-round and a stunning variety of waterbirds during winter migration. Surrounded by Gir's dry scrub forest, it is a top photography and nature watching destination within the Sasan Gir sanctuary — and a peaceful complement to the Asiatic lion jeep safari.
Devaliya Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone)
→Devaliya Safari Park — also called the Gir Interpretation Zone — is a 412-hectare fenced enclosure within Sasan Gir offering guaranteed Asiatic lion sightings on a 45-minute bus safari. The ideal option for families, children, and short-stay visitors who want a certain lion encounter. Home to lions, leopards, spotted deer, and numerous reptiles. Book your Devaliya Park ticket online at girlion.gujarat.gov.in. Open daily except Wednesday.
Crocodile Breeding Center
→The Crocodile Breeding Centre inside Sasan Gir is a vital conservation facility established in 1977 to protect and breed the endangered mugger (marsh) crocodile. Home to hundreds of mugger crocodiles at various life stages, it plays a critical role in replenishing Kamleshwar Dam's crocodile population. A fascinating, educational stop on every Gir National Park itinerary, offering a close-up look at India's wildlife conservation efforts in Gujarat.
Kankai Mata Temple
→Kankai Mata Temple is an ancient hilltop shrine inside the Gir forest, dedicated to Goddess Kankai — a locally revered form of Amba Mata. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle, the temple is accessible via a scenic forest route inside the Gir sanctuary and adds a spiritual dimension to the Sasan Gir wildlife experience. A revered pilgrimage site for local Gir tribal communities and an offbeat Gir tourist attraction for heritage travellers in Gujarat.
