In the southwest of the peninsular state of Gujarat, lies the 116 square-mile Gir sanctuary created to protect the last wild population of Lion outside the African regions. Since 1913 when the Lion population over here fell drastically to just 20 animals, the numbers have increased to around 300. The Asiatic lion is slightly smaller than its African cousin is and its mane is also smaller.
Flora in Gir National Park
The Gir National Park is a mixed deciduous forest with teak, flame of the forest, some Acacia and Banyan trees. A distinct belt of vegetation is found along the main rivers and streams. Species like the Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus and Amli are found here. These trees are mostly broad leaved and evergreen, giving the area a cool shade and the moisture content.
Main Attractions
In India the Lion population is spread across the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. But Gir is not just about Lions, the second most commonly found predator in the Gir is Leopard. Infact, Gir national park is also home to one of the largest Leopard populations in any park in India, and especially in the hotter season they can sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges.
Other animal residents of the Gir national park are Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli's Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo etc.
Other Attractions
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.
Best Time to Visit
Wildlife enthusiasts can visit Gir park throughout the year, but the best period to visit the Gir Sanctuary is between the months of November and June.
How to Get there
By Air : The nearest airport from Gir is Keshod 90-kms via
Veraval. Visitors can easily catch daily flights from Mumbai to Keshod.
By Rail : The nearest rail connection is the meter gauge rail
line of 395-kms from Ahemdabad.
By 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 Information
» Do not disturb the animals during day time as most of the nocturnal animals sleep during day time.
» Do not try to irritate the animals or make them angry by teasing them.
» Take official guides along with you on the park trip.
» Do not smoke inside the park.
» Do not use flash or intrusive photography.
» Picking of plants and insects is strictly prohibited.
» Wear loose fitting and simple clothes that blend with the park surroundings.
» For the safety of the visitors, walking and hiking within the vicinity of the park is not allowed.
» Camping and picnicking is not allowed within the park.
» Carry plenty of water along with you.
