Gir National Park Buffer Zone Sasan Gir
Home to the majestic Asiatic lion, Gir National Park offers a unique safari experience amidst diverse flora and fauna.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, lush greenery
Gir National Park Buffer Zone Sasan Gir
Best Time
Pleasant weather, lush greenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the majestic Asiatic lion, Gir National Park offers a unique safari experience amidst diverse flora and fauna.
"Witness the majestic Asiatic lion in its natural habitat – a truly humbling and unforgettable wildlife encounter. "
🎯 Book Safari Tickets Early
Safari slots are limited and sell out fast. Book online well in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
🦁 Manage Lion Sighting Hopes
Lion sightings aren't guaranteed. Enjoy the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscape regardless. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Asiatic Lion Safari
Gir National Park
Witness the majestic Asiatic lion in its natural habitat. A truly humbling and unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Devaliya Park Safari
Devaliya Park (Gir Interpretation Zone)
A more concentrated wildlife experience, offering better chances to spot lions and other animals in a controlled environment.
Diverse Wildlife Spotting
Gir National Park Buffer Zone
Beyond lions, encounter deer, leopards, and a variety of bird species amidst lush forests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Safari in Advance
Manage Lion Sighting Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Safari Tickets Early
Safari slots are limited and sell out fast. Book online well in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
🦁 Manage Lion Sighting Hopes
Lion sightings aren't guaranteed. Enjoy the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscape regardless. :camerawithflash:
Planning to visit Gir
Visiting Gir in March, good idea?
🚌 Consider the Bus Safari
A more affordable and practical option for seeing animals, covering a good portion of the park. :bus:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking, especially around the park entrance and gift shops. :athletic_shoe:
Getting to Gir NP
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Safari Tickets Early
Safari slots are limited and sell out fast. Book online well in advance to secure your spot. :admission_tickets:
🦁 Manage Lion Sighting Hopes
Lion sightings aren't guaranteed. Enjoy the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscape regardless. :camerawithflash:
🚌 Consider the Bus Safari
A more affordable and practical option for seeing animals, covering a good portion of the park. :bus:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some walking, especially around the park entrance and gift shops. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Best Time: Early Morning
Animals are most active in the early morning and late evening. Aim for the 6 AM slot. :sunrise:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Gir National Park for its role in conserving the Asiatic lion and the thrill of potential sightings. The park's natural beauty and diverse wildlife are highlights, though some find lion sightings rare and suggest managing expectations. The bus safari is noted as a practical alternative for seeing various animals.
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A truly unforgettable experience at Gir National Park!
We went for the early morning safari, and it was absolutely worth it. The jungle was calm and misty, with a magical sunrise view. Our guide and driver were very knowledgeable and helped us spot Asiatic lions, deer, peacocks, and many beautiful birds.
The forest is well-maintained, and the safari was conducted very professionally — safety and environmental care were clearly prioritized. Highly recommended for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts!
Tip: Book the early morning slot online for the best chance to see lions and enjoy the peaceful forest atmosphere. 🌳🦁✨"
DNB Travel Diaries & Trails
"The Gir national park is about 1200 sq kms, but difficult to cover the whole place in one day. There are 891 Asiatic lions as per government census, hence sightings of Lion is 100%. One gets the opportunity to see few lions. Other animals are leopards, deer, hyena, monkey's. Buy the Safari tickets online."
Raghu Allam
"Gir National Park is a thrilling destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The excitement of spotting Asiatic lions prowling majestically just meters away is simply unforgettable, filling every moment with anticipation. Herds of elegant deer, leaping cheetahs, wild boars dashing through the undergrowth, and graceful nilgai combine to create an exhilarating spectacle against the park’s tranquil, rustic backdrop. Safaris deliver pure adventure, with every twist of the trail offering a new surprise and unmatched opportunity to witness incredible wildlife in their natural habitat"
shashank awate
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gir National Park is accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Rajkot (approx. 160 km), and the nearest railway station is in Sasan Gir itself. You can hire taxis from these locations to reach the park.
For exploring the buffer zone, private jeeps are recommended for a more personalized safari experience. The bus safari is a more economical option for covering larger areas.
Yes, there are several resorts and guesthouses available near Gir National Park, catering to various budgets. Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak season.
The main entry points for safaris are typically from the Sinh Sadan Forest Rest House area. It's advisable to confirm your entry point when booking your safari.
Private vehicles are generally not allowed for safaris inside the core zone of Gir National Park. You must use the designated safari vehicles (jeeps or buses).
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Safari costs vary. The bus safari is around ₹150 per person, while private jeep safaris can range from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 for the vehicle. Booking fees are additional.
Gir National Park is typically open from October 15th to June 15th. It remains closed during the monsoon season (June to October).
Safari tickets can be booked online through the official Gujarat Forest Department website or authorized third-party platforms. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, there are primarily two types: the open jeep safari for a more intimate experience and the bus safari for covering more ground economically.
Devaliya Park, also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone, is a fenced area within Gir where animals are kept for conservation and breeding. It offers a higher chance of sightings but is a more controlled environment compared to the wild safari in Gir.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best times are early morning (around 6 AM) and late evening (around 6 PM) when animals are most active.
You can see the Asiatic lion, leopards, various species of deer (Sambar, Chital), wild boar, langurs, and numerous bird species.
Jeep safaris usually last about 3 hours, while bus safaris might cover a specific route in about 1-2 hours.
While Gir is the last abode of the Asiatic lion, sightings are not guaranteed. Patience and a good guide increase your chances.
There are usually gift shops, restrooms, and waiting areas available at the main safari booking points.
📸 📸 Photography
The open grasslands and waterholes are excellent for wildlife photography. Be patient and ready to capture moments during your safari.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited inside national parks and wildlife sanctuaries to avoid disturbing the animals.
A telephoto lens (200mm or more) is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots.
While photography is generally allowed, avoid using flash, especially at night or when photographing sensitive animals, as it can startle them.
The golden hours – early morning and late afternoon – provide the best natural light for photography, creating beautiful warm tones.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting Devaliya Park for a more guaranteed wildlife viewing experience, which can be less demanding for children. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure children understand the importance of staying quiet and not disturbing the animals. The gift shops at the parking premise offer souvenirs, which can be a fun takeaway for kids.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Wildlife Photographers
While the main attraction is the lion, don't overlook the chance to photograph other species like leopards, various deer, and numerous bird species. The buffer zones can also offer interesting photographic opportunities and a less crowded experience. Remember to be patient, respect the animals' space, and avoid using flash photography, which can disturb them.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Asiatic Lion
While the core zone of Gir offers a true wild safari, the buffer zones and nearby Devaliya Park provide alternative opportunities. Devaliya Park, in particular, is a fenced interpretation zone designed to increase the chances of sightings for visitors. It's a great option if you're short on time or have concerns about spotting lions in the vastness of the main park.
Remember that lions are wild animals, and their behavior is unpredictable. Always maintain a safe distance, follow your guide's instructions, and avoid any actions that could disturb them. The experience of observing these powerful predators in their natural environment is a profound reminder of the importance of wildlife conservation.
Planning Your Gir Safari Experience
When choosing your safari, consider the type of experience you're looking for. The open jeep safari offers a more intimate and flexible exploration of the designated routes within the park. For a more economical option that covers a significant area, the bus safari is a viable choice. Both offer opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, though lion sightings are never guaranteed.
Timing is crucial for maximizing your chances of wildlife encounters. Early morning safaris (around 6 AM) and late afternoon safaris (around 6 PM) are generally considered the best times as animals are most active during these cooler parts of the day. Dress comfortably, wear sturdy shoes, and bring binoculars and a camera to make the most of your adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit