Gir National Park-Gujarat

A park specially designed to protect the rapidly dwindling population of Asiatic lions in the country, Gir National Park is situated in the Junagarh district of Gujarat. The National Park covers an area of 1150 sq km. The innermost 300 sq km form the core of the Gir National Park where lions inhabit. This place is one and only habitat of Asiatic lions in the whole world.

Gir National Park was initially recorded as a wildlife sanctuary but it achieved the status of National Park in 1975.

The Gir National Park comprises of an abundant source of different varities of flora and fauna. The trees found in the region include Teak, Babul, Khair, Moledi, Timru, Kadyo, Simal, Asundro and others. The tress of Prosopis and Casuarina are planted along the coastal line to provide an ecological balance.

The best time to visit the Gir National Park, to see the natural inhabiting lions, is in the period from April to December. During this season, the National Park receives good amount of rainfall that helps in reducing the dryness in the soil.

Visitors are allowed to enter the Park in their own vehicles but only after a routine inspection. A local guide is mandatory for visiting the interior of the park. More than 60 thousand nature lovers visit the Gir National Park annually.

The park administration provides the facilities of mini buses and other rides for enjoying a safari experience in the park area.

The place has excellent accommodation facilities in and around the park. The adjoining area of Sasan provides many good hotel facilities. Sinh Sadan Guest House is one of the hotels of Gujarat tourism Department.

The nearest airport to the park is at Ahmedabad. Gir National Park is adequately connected with rest of the major cities of India by road. The nearest major railway link is at Rajkot.