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Posted 21 June 2023 in To the wild
Have you ever been on a wildlife safari, or, seen a lion within few feet away from you? At Gir National Park you will. But what makes this park famous? It is known for its population of Asiatic lions, which are an endangered species and only found here.
Gir National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the state of Gujarat. The park covers an area of about 1412 square kilometres and is home to a variety of other wildlife species as well, such as Indian leopards, spotted deer, sambar deer, chital, nilgai, four-horned antelope, wild boar, and Indian gazelle among others.
The park was established in 1965 and was initially set up to protect the remaining population of Asiatic lions, which had been hunted to near extinction. Today, the park is one of the most important protected areas for this species, with a population of around 500 individuals. Visitors to Gir National Park can enjoy wildlife safaris, birdwatching, and nature walks.
To enter the forest, you need to book a wildlife safari, and it is best done in advance. You can get the safari permits for Gir National Park at girlion.gujarat.gov.in.
To book a wildlife safari for Gir, you require certain things based on what type of safari you take.
During winter season (October to Feburary) the park is open Monday to Sunday from 6:30 AM to 12:30 AM and 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. And during the summer season (March to June), the park is open Monday to Sunday from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Devalia Park Bus Safari is closed on Wednesdays and open on the rest of the days from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Do make a note that Ambardi Safari Park is closed on every Tuesday.
The safari in Gir National Park can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Visitors can opt for a guided safari tour in an open jeep, which is the best way to explore the park and spot lions in their natural habitat. The park is divided into different zones, and tourists are allowed to visit only certain zones to prevent overcrowding and disturbance to the animals.
During the safari tour, visitors can expect to see not just lions but also other wildlife species such as leopards, deer, antelopes, and many species of birds. The safari tours are conducted twice a day, early morning and late afternoon, and last for about three hours. Visitors are advised to book their safari tour in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
It is important to note that the park authorities have strict rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety and well-being of both the visitors and the animals. Visitors are not allowed to get down from the jeep or make any loud noises that could disturb animals and are also required to maintain a safe distance from the animals at all times.
Found solely within the confines of the Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, the Asiatic lion, also referred to as the Indian lion or Persian lion, is a subspecies of lion. It is a distinct population of the African lion and is smaller in size than its African counterparts.
The Asiatic lion was once widespread across the Indian subcontinent but was hunted to near extinction in the 19th century and by 1900, only about a dozen lions survived in the wild, and they were all found in the Gir forest in Gujarat. Thanks to conservation efforts, the population of Asiatic lions in Gir has since increased, and today there are around 500 individuals in the park.
The Asiatic lion is an important cultural symbol in India and is revered as a powerful and majestic animal. The park authorities also carry out regular monitoring and conservation efforts to ensure the long-term survival of the species. In recent years, there have been efforts to reintroduce the Asiatic lion to other parts of India, but these efforts have been met with some controversy due to concerns about the potential impact on local communities and wildlife populations.
Kamleshwar Dam is a popular attraction located within the Gir National Park in Gujarat, India. It is a man-made reservoir that was built in 1959 across the Hiran River to provide water to the nearby areas and wildlife in the park. The dam is named after Kamleshwar village, which is located near the dam. The Kamleshwar Dam has a picturesque location, surrounded by hills and forests, and is a great spot for picnics and birdwatching. Visitors can also enjoy boating on the reservoir and take in scenic views of it’s surrounding landscape.
The dam is home to a variety of bird species, including waterfowl, egrets, herons, and kingfishers, among others. The best time to visit Kamleshwar Dam is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and birdlife is more active. The dam is easily accessible by road from the nearby cities of Junagadh and Sasan Gir, and visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the dam. Please note that visitors are required to obtain permission from the forest department before visiting the dam.
Whether you are a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a new and exciting travel experience, taking a safari in Gir National Park is an adventure that's sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, book your flight, and get ready to explore the wildlife of Gujarat's Gir National Park.
Where is Gir National Park located?
Gir National Park is located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is situated about 65 km south-east of Junagadh and 60 km south-west of Amreli.
What is the main attraction of Gir National Park?
The main attraction of Gir National Park is the Asiatic lion. It is the only place in the world where the Asiatic lion can be found in the wild.
What other animals can be found at Gir National Park?
Apart from the Asiatic lion, Gir National Park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including the Indian leopard, sloth bear, striped hyena, golden jackal, and several species of deer and antelope.
What is the best time to visit Gir National Park?
The best time to visit Gir National Park is from December to March when the weather is pleasant and chances of spotting wildlife are higher. The park is closed during the monsoon season, from June to October.
Is it possible to go on a safari in Gir National Park?
Yes, it is possible to go on a safari in Gir National Park. The park offers both jeep and canter safaris that are conducted by trained guides. However, it is important to book your safari in advance, as the number of vehicles allowed inside the park is limited.
