Gir National Park
West India Region
Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is a premier national park and wildlife sanctuary located in Gujarat, India. Established in 1965 within the former private hunting grounds of the Nawab of Junagarh, it spans over 1,410 square kilometers, with 258.71 km² designated as a fully protected national park. It represents the largest dry deciduous forest in western India and is part of the Khathiar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion. The park is globally renowned as the last refuge of the Asiatic lion, with a thriving population that increased to 523 lions by 2015. Besides lions, Gir hosts diverse fauna including Indian leopards, striped hyenas, jungle cats, and several herbivores such as chital and nilgai. The flora comprises over 500 plant species, including teak, acacia, and banyan trees, providing a unique ecosystem. The park's seven perennial rivers and reservoirs like the Kamleshwar Dam sustain the region's wildlife. Gir is a critical conservation success story and a vital biological research area with significant educational and ecological importance. It is closed during the monsoon season from mid-June to mid-October to protect the environment and wildlife.
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Tip: The best time to visit Gir National Park is during the dry season from October to June when the park is open and wildlife sightings are more frequent. Booking safari tickets in advance is recommended due to visitor demand and limited entry during peak seasons. The park is closed from June 16 to October 15 for monsoon. Visitors can access Gir via nearby cities Junagadh and Veraval by road or train, with the closest airport at Keshod, 54 km away. Guided safaris are advisable for safety and better wildlife experience. Discounts may be available for students, senior citizens, and groups; check official sources before visiting.
Interesting facts
- •Gir National Park is the sole natural habitat of the Asiatic lion in the world.
- •The Asiatic lion population in Gir increased by 27% between 2010 and 2015.
- •The park contains over 500 species of plants and nearly 2,400 species of animals, including 38 mammals and 300 bird species.
- •The Kamleshwar Dam in the park is known as the 'lifeline of Gir' due to its importance for water supply.
- •Gir's dry deciduous forest is classified as the largest of its kind in western India.
History
Originally the private hunting grounds of the Nawab of Junagarh in the 19th century, Gir Forest was home to the last Asiatic lions in India by the late 1800s.
Due to hunting and habitat loss, lion numbers dwindled drastically, prompting conservation efforts initiated by the Nawab and later the Indian government.
The area was officially declared a wildlife sanctuary and national park in 1965 to protect the lions and biodiversity.
Since then, the Asiatic lion population has steadily increased thanks to dedicated protection and management, making Gir the only natural habitat of Asiatic lions in Asia today.
Place Guide
Asiatic Lion Habitat
Explore the core zones where Asiatic lions roam, the park's primary attraction. These areas offer the best chance to observe lions in their natural environment, along with their prides, cubs, and hunting behaviors.
Dry Deciduous Forests
Walk through the extensive teak and acacia forests that form the backbone of Gir's ecosystem. These forests support diverse flora and fauna adapted to the dry climate.
Water Bodies and Reservoirs
Visit the major perennial rivers and reservoirs such as the Kamleshwar Dam, which are vital for sustaining wildlife during dry seasons.
Contact
Phone: 02877 285 540
