Experience of Forest Safari at Gir

Visiting the Gir National Park is an experience you will remember for a lifetime. 

Being on a jungle safari is an exhilarating feeling. You get the chance to spot animals that up until then, you had only seen on television or read about in books. The feeling of embarking on an expedition in the wild is almost surreal!

Amidst the surge of emotions, imagine adding a touch of surprise – a rare species, found nowhere else in the wild but in the very location you're in. This is precisely what awaits you on your Gir Forest Safari! 

Going for a family vacation to the Sasan Gir National Park presents a unique opportunity for you and your children to witness the majestic Asiatic Lion in its natural habitat.

A Glimpse of Gir

The Gir Forest Safari is a blend of anticipation, excitement, and awe. The safari is not just about spotting the Asiatic Lion; it's about immersing oneself in the natural beauty and biodiversity of Gir Forest.

• The Early Start

The adventure in Gir Forest Safari kicks off at the break of dawn, which is the best time to visit Gir Forest. Early morning is when many animals, including the Asiatic Lion, are most active. They are often on the move, hunting or foraging for food, which increases the chances of sightings. Hence, it is best to choose from the resorts in Gir that are closest to the Gir National Park. 

• The Search for Wildlife 

The excitement mounts as you hop into the jeep and venture into the dense forests. The anticipation of spotting wildlife heightens as you keep a keen eye on your surroundings, looking for any signs of the wild inhabitants.

The silence in the forest is crucial as it increases the chances of encountering the diverse fauna. As you travel through the forest, you may come across various animals that Gir is renowned for, such as Sambar deer, jackals, Chowsinghas, leopards, and striped hyenas. Each sighting adds to the thrill of the safari. 

• The Majestic Encounter 

The ultimate goal of the Gir Forest Safari is to spot the Asiatic Lion, the king of the jungle. The moment of spotting this majestic creature is nothing short of magical. The sight of the lion in its natural habitat is awe-inspiring and often leaves everyone spellbound. It's a moment where reality surpasses dreams, and you find yourself questioning, "Am I dreaming?"

How to Reach Gir National Park

The Sasan Gir National Park is easily accessible by air, rail, and road, with nearby airports, railway stations, and well-maintained roads providing convenient options for visitors to reach this magnificent natural reserve. 

• How to Reach Gir National Park by Air:  

The nearest airports to Gir National Park are Keshod Airport and Rajkot Airport. Keshod Airport is about 70 km away, while Rajkot Airport is approximately 160 km from the park. From either airport, you can hire a cab or use bus services to reach Gir National Park. For international travellers, the best option is to fly to Mumbai International Airport and then take a connecting flight to Diu Airport. From Diu, it's a 2-hour drive by cab. 

• How to Reach Gir National Park by Rail:  

The closest railway stations to Gir National Park are Junagadh and Veraval, both situated at similar distances from the park. These stations are well-connected to major cities across India by direct trains. To reach Gir from Junagadh or Veraval, you can take a cab, taxi, or state bus, which will take around 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Another nearby railway station is Rajkot, about 165 km from the park, with a travel time of approximately 3.5 hours by road. 

• How to Reach National Park by Road:  

Travelling by road can be a pleasant experience, as Gujarat's roads are generally in good condition. The park is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat via good roads. There are frequent bus services provided by both state transport and private operators to Gir from various parts of the state. Additionally, cabs and taxis are readily available in major cities for a convenient journey to Gir National Park. 

Best Time to Visit the Gir National Park

The best time to visit Gir National Park varies depending on the season, each offering a unique experience:

• Gir in Summer (March to May): 

During the summer months from March to May, Gir National Park is a great place for wildlife lovers to visit, especially if you want to see Asiatic lions. These animals are often found near water sources to stay cool. However, it can get really hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F). So, if you're planning a visit during this time, make sure to wear light clothes, use sunscreen, and drink plenty of water to stay comfortable while you enjoy watching the wildlife.

• Gir in Monsoon (June to September): 

In the monsoon season, from June to September, the park turns lush and green, offering a beautiful sight. However, this is also the time when the park is closed to visitors. This closure is because it's the breeding season for the lions, and the heavy rains can make the safari paths muddy and hard to travel on. So, while the park looks beautiful during the monsoon, it's not possible to visit and see the wildlife during this time.

• Gir in Winter (October to February): 

The winter months from October to February are the best time to visit Gir National Park. The weather is cool and comfortable, with temperatures between 10°C (50°F) and 22°C (72°F). This makes safaris more enjoyable, and you're more likely to see a variety of wildlife during this time. So, if you're planning a trip to Gir National Park, consider going in the winter for a pleasant and exciting experience.

While each season has its charm, the winter months are generally considered the best time to visit Gir National Park for a comfortable and rewarding safari experience.

Places to Visit in Gir

While the Gir forest safari is a major attraction for most people, there are other amazing places to visit in Gir.

Here are some of the places to visit in Gir near the National Park. 

• Kamleshwar Dam: 

Kamleshwar Dam, also known as Hiran-2 Dam, is situated within the Gir National Park. It's a picturesque spot known for its scenic beauty and is an important water source for the region's wildlife, especially during the summer months.

Distance from Gir National Park: Approximately 15 km. 

• Durbar Hall Museum: 

Located in Junagadh, the Durbar Hall Museum is a historical museum that showcases weapons, armour, palanquins, chandeliers, and other royal artefacts from the Nawabs of Junagadh. It is one of the places to visit in Gir for history lovers. The museum provides a glimpse into the region's rich cultural and historical heritage.

Distance from Gir National Park: Approximately 65 km. 

• Uparkot Fort: 

Uparkot Fort is an ancient fort in Junagadh, believed to have been built by Chandragupta Maurya. It is known for its historical significance, architectural marvels, and features like the Adi-Kadi Vav (stepwell) and Navghan Kuvo (a deep well).

Distance from Gir National Park: Approximately 65 km. 

• Nalsarovar Lake: 

Nalsarovar Lake is a large wetland and bird sanctuary located near Ahmedabad. It's a popular spot for bird watching, especially during the winter months when migratory birds visit the lake.

Distance from Gir National Park: Approximately 310 km. 

• Girnar Hills: 

Girnar Hills are a range of mountains near Junagadh, famous for their religious significance and the Girnar Jain temples are located atop the hills. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.

Distance from Gir National Park: Approximately 70 km. 

• Kankai Mata Temple: 

Kankai Mata Temple is a secluded temple located within the Gir Forest. It is dedicated to the goddess Kankai Mata and is a peaceful place for worship and meditation amidst nature.

Distance from Gir National Park: Approximately 50 km.

Where to stay in Gir

There are many resorts in Gir, but it is best to choose one that offers you the best experience. 

Club Mahindra Gir is a wonderful property to spend your holiday this coming summer. Although designed like a jungle lodge, it offers all necessary modern amenities and is spread across a beautiful four-acre complex. It is considered to be one of the most luxurious Gir resorts. 

Club Mahindra organizes safaris regularly and also boasts an array of activities like nature walks, hobby sets, bird-watching trails, and lots more for those on family vacations.