Exploring Gir National Park
Area : 1412 Sq. Km Altitude : 40m to 50 m Climate : Temperature Range : 40°C to 12°C
Best Time To Visit: Mid October-Mid June, November and February is the best time for sighting the lions
History of Gir National Park
The Conservation History of Gir National Park deals with the conservation of Asiatic lions, whose population had dropped tremendously in the early 20th century. Gir National Park is a beautiful park dotted with deciduous forests, interspersed with semi-evergreen and evergreen flora, acacia, scrub jungle, grasslands and rocky hills, along with an abundance of fauna. Sprawling over an area of 1412 sq km, the park is one of the most charming National Parks in India.
The conservation history of Gir National Park takes us back to the early 1900s. At that time, the count of lions had dropped down to just 15 through slaughter for trophy hunting. When the British viceroys brought this matter to the attention of the Nawab of Junagadh, he ensured the protection of the park. Lord Curzon, especially, requested the Nawab to conserve the lions. Thus, the forest area of Gir and its lions were declared as protected by the Nawab. A ban was also imposed on the shooting of lions.
The conservation history of Gir National Park also includes other factors that make conservation of the park essential. Gir is the largest compact tract of dry deciduous forest in the semi arid western part of India. It has the maximum number of carnivores, and also has the largest population of marsh crocodiles in the country. The park provides shelter to all these forests and animals.
Sightseeing in Gir National Park
Apart from Wildlife attractions and Safaris in Gir National Park you can also enjoy the tribal village visit and historic town of Junagadh. A couple of tribes still reside inside the park co-existing with the wild animals. A visit to these tribal villages is an interesting experience that introduces the visitors to the unique lifestyle and ways of living of the tribal people.
* Uparkot Fort: Famous for its virtual inaccessibility. * Chorwad beach: A delightful resort on the sunny coast of Gujarat.
* Damodar: A sacred tank marks the ascent to the Girnar temples.
* Ashoka's Rock Edicts: On the way to Girnar, fourteen rock edicts of the Emperor Ashoka can be seen inscribed on a great boulder.
* Maqbara: The mausolea of the Nawabs, the traditional rulers of Junagadh.
* Somnath temple: Temple of Somnath is one of the twelve most sacred Shiva shrines in India.
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 Gir National Park
Air : The nearest airport from Gir is Keshod 90-kms via Veraval. Visitors can easily catch daily flights from Mumbai to Keshod.
Rail : The nearest rail connection is the meter gauge rail line of 395-kms from Ahemdabad. Road : Gir is situated at a distance of 400-kms from Ahmedabad via Rajkot, Junagadh and Mendarda. State Transport buses are easily available from Junagadh and Veraval to Gir, between November and June.
General Info / Tips
Plan your visit
A useful journey leaves room for local discoveries. Start with these essentials, then verify operational details from primary sources.
Reserve any permitted safari or access through the authorized wildlife authority.
Keep a respectful distance, avoid loud noises and never feed or approach wildlife.
Bring neutral clothing, water, suitable sun protection and binoculars if useful.
Check the open season, gate location, guide requirements and changing conservation rules.
Photos and places to remember
More journeys to discover
Frequently asked questions
What is Gir National Park known for?
Gir National Park is explored in this guide through its local heritage, visitor attractions, culture and images. The highlights and linked articles below offer starting points for your itinerary.
How should I plan a first visit to Gir National Park?
Choose a few nearby highlights in Gir National Park, group them by area and allow flexibility for travel, meals and rest. Confirm the latest access information with official providers.
Can I visit Gir National Park throughout the year?
Not necessarily. Wildlife areas can close for monsoon periods, conservation measures or operational reasons. Confirm current permits, zones and visitor seasons directly with park authorities.
Where can I confirm ticket prices and opening times in Gir National Park?
Check the official tourism authority or the individual venue before departure. This page intentionally does not repeat potentially outdated prices or hours.
Is this Gir National Park guide updated?
This page was rebuilt from legacy IndiaCityTrip content on October 23, 2026. Older descriptive material has been reorganized; operational details still require direct verification.