Gir Tourism

"The land of Asiatic Lions" Gir Tourism GirNational Park is the only remaining home for the Asiatic Lions that are almost a definition to this park in Gujarat, which has a lot more to offer. Gir provides you with the unique experience of visiting a place which almost singularly plays a crucial and defining role in the preservation and sustaining of a certain species. The preservation of these lions was initiated by the Nawab of Junagadh when these were just about to enter the phase of extinction due to hunting. Official count said that there were 411 lions in 2010. Also, there are roughly different 2375 species of fauna here with 38 species of mammals, over 300 species of birds, 37 species of reptiles and over 2000 species of insects. Other important wildlife forms found here are leopard, chausingha, spotted deer, hyena, sambar deer and chinkara. Download Gir PDF Guide > What's Great? Gir is one of the biggest habitats for the lions and leopards. A great place for the wildlife safari. What's not so Great? Does not have its own airport, railway station, and bus station so difficult to reach. For Whom Perfect place for wildlife lovers and photographers.

Gir Jungle Trail The Gir National Park is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in India, home to the majestic Asiatic lions along with a wide variety of flora and fauna - including over 600 species of plants, 300 bird and 39 mammal species. The Gir jungle trail takes you into the heart of the over 1000 sq km of lush deciduous forests, allowing you to marvel at its rich biodiversity. Apart from the lions, Gir is also famous for other species like leopards, red-headed vultures and the Indian python. Devalia Safari Park The Devalia Safari Park is also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone and was established to reduce the excess of tourists at the Gir National Park. It is an eco-tourism zone, known as ?Gir in a nutshell?, which houses all the wildlife and habitats of Gir within its boundaries. Prominent species that can be spotted here include - Blue Bull, Asiatic Lion, Leopard, Sambhar and Peafowl. The Savana habitat is also a popular attraction here. A tour of Devalia is cheaper, quicker and allows tourists to view the animals in their natural habitat. Flora The dry deciduous forests of Gir are believed to house over 500 species of flora. Teak trees cover over half the area. Other prominent species include jamun, babul, the flame of the forest etc. Casuarinas and Prosopis were planted along the coastal borders of Gir for under the afforestation program. The Gir forest has great significance both for scientific research recreational purpose. Water Reserve The Gir region has seven major rivers, and 4 reservoirs at 4 dams - one each on the Hiran, Machhundri, Raval and Shingoda rivers. The biggest reservoir is the Kamleshwar Dam, which is called as the lifeline of Gir. Droughts and water scarcity are a major challenge in the region, especially during peak summers. Attractions in Gir National Park Apart from the famous Gir jungle trail at the national park, Gir has many other attractions to offer to tourists. The Kamleshwar dam, which is the largest dam in Gir, is one such attraction, and it is often referred to as the ?lifeline of Gir?. It is built over the Hiran river. The beautiful Tulsi Shyam temple located within the national park is also a must-visit. The crocodile breeding farm, located near the Sasan Gir reserve, is also a popular tourist destination. The Kingpin of Gujarat Gir is synonyms to the royal Asiatic lions that draws in the wildlife enthusiasts from all around the globe. The national park is the last abode of the endangered species of Asiatic lions that are the pride of India. With the population of about 500 lions and 400 leopards in its premises, Gir is one of the biggest habitats of the wild cats and also a haven for the wildlife lovers. Wildlife Safaris in the deep woods of Gir not only offers the great vistas of the wildlife, but the perennial and seasonal water bodies add an extra perk to the experience of wildlife expedition. Kamleshwar Dam located within the premises of national park is a home to reptiles and crocodiles which are also a major attraction of Gir. Apart from the leopards and lions, the national park also houses the various variety of species such as Deer, Sambhar, Cheetal, antelopes, blue bull, jackal, hyena and hare among the other species of fauna.

Itinerary Day 1 -Arrive at Keshod airport or Junagadh railway station. Transfer to resort in the Gir National park. Check-in at the hotel. Spend the rest of the day at the resort.Day 2 -Leave for wildlife excursion in the National park. Enjoy the wildlife safari. In the evening enjoy the bird watching. Back to the resort. Dinner at the resort. Overnight stay at the resort with a bonfire and other cultural programmes.

Restaurants and Local Food in Gir Gir has a number of resorts and lodges that serve food across various cuisines. These ensure that you won't run out of options for food while on your trip through adventure and excitement. Since it's a part of Gujarat, you might find local and elaborate Gujarati cuisine being served here. Typically vegetarian, Gujarati Thali would consist ofRoti, Dal or Kadhi, Rice and Vegetable Curries. Gujarat is a dry state, so you wouldn't find any alcohol here. View 2 Restaurants in Gir >>

Jul-Maris the best time to visit Gir The Gir National Park is open from Mid - October onwards until mid-June and the Devaliya Safari park (Gir Interpretation Zone) is open throughout the year. The Devalia Safari Park closed on every Wednesday.  The best season is from October to March when the weather is moderate. April to June are very hot and hence should be avoided. July-September has little rains, but that should not be an issue. Weather in Gir Loading... Gir in Summer (March - June) The Summers are very hot and humid in the whole state of Gujarat, with the temperature ranging from 24 to 42 degrees celsius. Gir can be visited during this period, but it is not the best time to enjoy the wildlife safari. Gir in Monsoon (July - October) The National Park remain closed from the month of June-October due to Monsoon season. Gir in Winter (November - February) This is the best time to visit Gir National Park. The weather is best suited for the wildlife safari. The temperature ranges from 10 to 22 degrees Celsius, which is neither too hot nor too cold. Monthly Weather in Gir Month Avg. Minimum (°C) Avg. Maximum (°C) January 15 29 February 18 32 March 21 35 April 25 37 May 27 38 June 28 37 July 27 31 August 26 30 September 25 32 October 23 33 November 19 33 December 17 32