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Gir National Park - Gujarat
The Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Gujarat, India, is renowned as the only place in the world where the Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica) can be found in its natural habitat. It is a significant hub for wildlife conservation and eco-tourism.
Location
- Situated in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, Gir National Park spans 1,412 square kilometers, including the core area of the National Park (258 sq km) and the surrounding wildlife sanctuary.
- Coordinates: Between 21°08’–21°23’N latitude and 70°28’–70°44’E longitude.
History
- Established in 1965, the park was initially a royal hunting ground for the Nawabs of Junagadh.
- Conservation efforts were initiated in the early 20th century when the Asiatic lion population fell alarmingly low due to hunting and habitat loss.
- Today, it is a protected area under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Key Features
- Flora
- The park primarily comprises dry deciduous forests, thorn forests, and savannah-like grasslands.
- Key tree species include teak, acacia, jamun, babul, and flame of the forest.
- It is interspersed with perennial rivers and water bodies, supporting diverse vegetation.
- Fauna
- Flagship Species: Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica), with a population of over 670 individuals as per the 2020 census.
- Other Mammals: Leopards, striped hyenas, jungle cats, Indian jackals, wild boars, chital, sambar deer, four-horned antelope, and Indian pangolins.
- Birds: Over 300 bird species, including crested serpent eagles, painted storks, and Indian pitta.
- Reptiles: Marsh crocodiles, pythons, monitor lizards, and various snake species.
- Rivers and Water Bodies
- Major rivers such as Hiran, Shetrunji, Datardi, and Raval provide essential water sources for the ecosystem.
- Tourism
- Gir National Park is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Safaris: Jeep safaris are the main attraction, allowing visitors to observe lions in the wild.
- Interpretive zones: The Devalia Safari Park, also called the Gir Interpretation Zone, provides a managed experience for lion sightings.
Conservation Efforts
- Gir is a part of Project Lion, focusing on the long-term conservation of the Asiatic lion.
- Human-wildlife coexistence initiatives include compensation schemes for livestock loss and eco-development projects for local communities.
- Regular lion census and habitat management are critical aspects of the park’s conservation strategy.
Accessibility
- Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (65 km) and Rajkot Airport (160 km).
- Nearest Railway Station: Junagadh (65 km) and Veraval (40 km).
- By Road: Well-connected to major cities like Ahmedabad (360 km) and Rajkot.
Best Time to Visit
- November to March is the most comfortable period for visiting.
- The park remains closed during the monsoon season (June 16 to October 15) for conservation and safety reasons.
Gir National Park stands as a testament to India’s successful wildlife conservation efforts, offering visitors a rare chance to witness the majestic Asiatic lion and experience the natural beauty of Gujarat.
Day 1:
- Reach to nearest Railway Station/Air by 9:00 AM
- Breakfast
- Transfer to wildlife destination in AC Car
- Check in at the Resort/Hotel and Freshen up
- Lunch and Rest
- Head for evening jungle safari in open gypsy at 14:30PM – 18.30 PM
- Back to the Resort/ Hotel by 19:00 PM
- Snacks and Tea
- Information and Experience Sharing
- Dinner and retire for the day
Day 2:
- Wake up early by 5:30 AM
- Morning jungle safari in open gypsy at 06:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- We will have breakfast during the safari
- Return to Resort/ Hotel and some leisure time.
- Lunch and prepare for evening safari
- Evening jungle safari in open gypsy at 14:30PM – 18.30 PM
- Back to the Resort/ Hotel by 19:00 PM
- Snacks and Tea
- Information and Experience Sharing
- Dinner and retire for the day
Day 3:
- Wake up early by 5:30 AM
- Final Morning jungle safari in open gypsy at 06:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Breakfast at the Resort/ Hotel
- Lunch & check out from the Resort/ Hotel by 12:00 PM
- Transfer to nearest Railway Station/Air Port in AC Car
- Travel back to Home City
Day 1:
- Reach to nearest Railway Station/Air by 9:00 AM
- Breakfast
- Transfer to wildlife destination in AC Car
- Check in at the Resort/Hotel and Freshen up
- Lunch and Rest
- Head for evening jungle safari in open gypsy at 14:30PM – 18.30 PM
- Back to the Resort/ Hotel by 19:00 PM
- Snacks and Tea
- Information and Experience Sharing
- Dinner and retire for the day
Day 2:
- Wake up early by 5:30 AM
- Final Morning jungle safari in open gypsy at 06:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Breakfast at the Resort/ Hotel
- Lunch & check out from the Resort/ Hotel by 12:00 PM
- Transfer to nearest Railway Station/Air Port in AC Car
- Travel back to Home City
Includes:
- Accommodation twin sharing basis for 3 Days & 2 Nights OR 2 Days & 1 Nights (As per the tour duration).
- Morning breakfast with tea, Lunch, Evening High Tea, Dinner includes in Meals for 3 Days & 2 Nights OR 2 Days & 1 Nights (As per the tour duration).
- Jungle safari charges i.e. online permit booking, guide and vehicle charges.
- Only 4 Persons Open Gypsy Safari in 4 Jungle Safaris for 3D2N and 2 Jungle Safari for 2D1N in core and buffer zone as per availability.
- Pick up and drop from nearest railway station or airport as per mentioned in your tour guideline book.
- All local transportation from hotel to safari gate.
Excludes:
- Hard drinks, cold drinks, mineral water, laundry, phone calls, any extra meal or breakfast or any other personal stuff.
- Meals during any journey and meals outside the resort.
- Any Air/ Railway/Bus Travel till nearest railway station or airport
- Tips to guides, drivers and waiters.
- Any Birding Hide.
- Any Camera Charges.
- Expert Guide for Birding.
- Personal Expenses.
- Any other thing mentioned than inclusions.
- Original identity proof as per booking details
- Necessary items like a hat, sunglasses.
- Extra set of clothes
- Steel water bottle
- Some snacks to munch on
- Binocular, field guide
- Camera with extra batteries and charger
- Torch with extra set of batteries
- First aid kit and personal medicines required if any
- Extra cash for shopping and for emergency. There won’t be ATMs available.
Each wildlife safari destination may have specific rules and guidelines. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local regulations and adhere to them for a safe and responsible experience.
Pre-Boarding Safari Guidelines:
- Avoid venturing out of the resort premises without local assistance.
- Confirm pick-up and drop-off charges between your resort and the safari gate in advance.
- Reach the forest entry gate at least half an hour before the entry time.
- Mobile phones are forests, keep phones on silent mode.
- Note that an extra camera charge applies in the Forests.
- Preferably wear dull colored clothes like Khaki, Green, Brown, Gray etc. Better to get camouflaged with the surroundings.
- Avoid wearing Red / Yellow / Orange / Pink / White / Fluorescent colored clothes as Animals gets distracted from it.
- Strictly no Deodorants and Perfumes. Animals have strong senses and Honey Bees can attack.
- Carry scarf to cover your face and camera to protect from heat and dust.
- Avoid wearing gold ornaments.
- The Safari can be dusty, stay covered.
On Boarding Safari Guidelines:
When boarding on a wildlife safari, it’s important to prioritize safety to ensure a positive and secure experience.
- Follow the guidance of trained professionals
- Stay inside the designated vehicles or trails
- Follow safety guidelines during encounters:
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife
- Do not make sudden movements or loud noises
- Do not use camera flash while clicking photographs.
- Stay hydrated and carry drinking water
- Do not litter. Keep the area clean.
- You can carry snacks / biscuits during the safari but ask guide for permission before consuming it. Offer it to the Guide and the Driver.
- Don’t through food wrappers, plastic covers, paper and other waste with you and dump it in the dustbin.
Wildlife Safari FAQs
- What should I bring for a wildlife safari?
You should bring:
- Comfortable clothing in neutral colors (earth tones).
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Binoculars and cameras.
- Closed-toe shoes.
- Reusable water bottles.
- What should I bring on a safari?
Essentials include binoculars, a camera, a water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a guidebook. Don’t forget extra batteries and memory cards for your camera. - Is the safari safe?
Yes, our safaris are led by experienced guides who prioritize safety. It’s important to follow their instructions at all times. - Can children join the safari?
Yes, children are welcome, but some safaris may have age restrictions for safety reasons. Please check the specific safari details. - Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, advance booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. - Are meals and drinks provided during the safari?
Depending on the package, meals and drinks may be included. Please check your itinerary for details. - When is the best time for a wildlife safari?
The best time varies by location, but typically early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for spotting wildlife. - What animals can I expect to see?
The wildlife varies depending on the location. Common sightings include elephants, lions, leopards, Tigers, and antelope. For specific locations, inquire with us beforehand.
Wildlife Photography FAQs
- What type of camera is best for wildlife photography?
- DSLR or mirrorless camera.
- Telephoto lenses (200-400mm is recommended).
- Tripod or monopod fsf can be helpful for stability, especially for long exposures or using heavy telephoto lenses.
- Extra memory cards and batteries.
- Are drones allowed?
Drone use is generally restricted in wildlife reserves to protect the animals. Please check with us for specific rules. - What’s the best time of day for wildlife photography?
The golden hours—early morning and late afternoon—offer the best lighting and higher chances of animal activity. - Are there restrictions on flash photography?
Yes, flash photography is often prohibited as it can disturb wildlife. Always confirm with your guide.
Bird Watching FAQs
- What equipment do I need for bird watching?
- Binoculars with a wide field of view.
- A bird field guide or birding app.
- Notebook and pen for keeping a list of species spotted.
- Do I need prior experience to join a bird-watching tour?
No experience is necessary. Our tours cater to both beginners and experienced birders. - What is the best time for bird watching?
Early mornings are usually the best time, as birds are most active during this period. - How should I prepare for a bird-watching trip?
Wear quiet, comfortable clothes in natural colors and sturdy shoes and water. - Will we see rare or endangered birds?
While sightings of rare species cannot be guaranteed, our guides will take you to locations with the best chances of spotting them. - Can I bring my kids on a bird-watching tour?
Yes, children are welcome, but we recommend that they be able to remain quiet and patient during the tour. - Are bird-watching tours weather-dependent?
Yes, weather conditions can affect bird activity. We monitor the forecast and may reschedule if necessary. - How long do bird watching tours last?
Tours typically last 2-4 hours but can be customized to suit your preferences.
