Hey wildlife lovers, looks like you are ready to explore the wild again. And if this time around you are thinking of visiting the Gir National Park in Gujarat, we couldn’t be more excited for you! Before we tell you why you tell us anything. In the Lion King movie, what an amazing scene is when Rafiki introduces Simmba as the future Lion King, and everyone cheers for him? And how cool would it be to see little Simba running around his kingdom? Well, Gir National Park is the perfect place to see the Lion Kings. Because this sanctuary is proudly preserving Asiatic Lions!
While Gir National Park is famous for the conservation of Asiatic lions, it is also home to many other species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Overall, there is a lot to see and do in this national park. And we say, without any further ado, plan your trip. And we want to help!
How to reach Gir National Park?
The location of Gir National Park is quite convenient to reach by air, train, and road. Here are your travel options!
By Air
The nearest airport to Gir National Park is at Rajkot. From Rajkot airport, you can take a private taxi or bus and reach the national park within a few hours.
By Train
If you are traveling by train, you can either get down at Veraval Railway Station or Junagadh Railway Station. Then you can hail a taxi and reach the national park easily
By Road
Time for a fun road trip! Take buses from nearby cities like Rajkot, Mumbai, Dwarka, Ahmedabad, and Surat. The bus will take you to Junagadh. From there you will get a private taxi to your destination.
What is the best time to visit Gir National Park?
Before you start planning your trip, you need to know what is the best time to visit Gir Park. So, here you go! The winter months, from December to March, are the best time to visit the park. The reason for this is apparently the pleasant weather. You can enjoy your wildlife tour comfortably and have a pleasant experience. Talking about the summer months, between April and May, it can be very hot. But if you can handle the weather, it can be an ideal time for wildlife spotting and photography.
So, choose any time that you feel comfortable with. But remember not to plan your trip between June 16 and October 15. Because the National Park remains closed.
What places to visit in Gir National Park?
Once you reach Gir National Park, you will have a lot of places to visit.
Kamleshwar dam
The Hiran River flows right in the middle of the Gir National Park. And the Kamleshwar dam is built on the Hiran River. If you are a nature lover then you will really enjoy it a lot coming here. You can spot many birds and also spot crocodiles. This dam is as beautiful as it is important as it is a major water source of the Gir.
Somnath Temple
After Kamleshwar dam you can visit Somnath temple and spend some time in devotion. The temple is one of the 12 holy Jyotirlingas and is quite popular among tourists from outside India and even. Also, the temple is situated at the confluence of Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati river and you will get to witness some breathtaking views!
Uparkot Fort
King Chandragupta Maurya built this fort in 319 BC and now it has turned into a famous tourist destination in Gujarat. Enter through any of the three massive gates and see two-step wells or baolis, the tomb of Noori Shah, and the many Buddhist caves. A visit here will surely make you swoon with history.
Jamjir Waterfall
One of the most famous tourist destinations and for all the right reasons! This waterfall is quite small but does not compromise on its beauty at all. The way the waters flow here and the melodious sound they make while falling over the stones and rocks is truly magical and a must experience on your Gujarat travel guide.
What things to do in Gir National Park?
Here is a list of things that you can indulge in Gir National Park!
Jungle safari
No wonder, we know! When you are in Gir National Park, going on a jungle safari or a lion safari is a must! In fact, the best way to see the majestic animals in their natural habitat is on a safari. Now, you have two options. The first option is a jeep safari and the second is a walking safari. Whichever option you choose, you will get a guide with you to help you find the animals. Timings may vary depending on the season.
If you go for a summer tour, then you can go on safari from 6 am to 9 am or from 4 pm to 7 pm. At the same time, in winter the time is from 6.45 am to 9.45 pm and from 3 pm to 6 pm. And we almost forgot, apart from lions, you will also see leopards, chinkaras, spotted deer, chausingha, hyena, and sambar deer.
Bird watching
Gir National Park is home to many rare species of birds. So, don’t leave the place without making the most of the bird-watching activity. The best time for this activity is between December and January. Because during this time many migratory birds come to the national park. What birds can you expect to see here? Bonelli’s eagle, dwarf woodpecker, and woodpecker’s flamingo!
Enjoy tribal festival
The Maldhari tribe and the Siddi tribe call Gir their home. The tribes celebrate many festivals every year. And the best part is that they allow visitors to participate in their celebrations as well. We say, don’t miss this opportunity to have fun and learn about tribal cultures. The two festivals that we would suggest you attend are the Dang Darbar which is celebrated just before Holi and the Chitra Vichitra Mela which is celebrated 14 days after the Dang Darbar Festival!
Where to stay in Gir National Park?
There are so many great accommodations available to you! The first one we would like to mention is the Gir Jungle Lodge Resort which is located near the entrance of the national park. You will get all the necessary facilities and their customer service is also commendable. Gateway Hotel Gir Forest, The Fern Gir Forest Resort, Woods at Sasan, Hotel Anil Farmhouse, and Gir Pride Resort are also great choices!
Now that you know everything about Gir National Park, just decide when you want to visit and book flights and hotels. Because the wild is calling!
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