10 Interesting Things to do in and around Gir with Your Family

Located in Gujarat, Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India. It enjoys the unique distinction of being the only wildlife sanctuary that houses the Asiatic lion in large numbers. People from all over the country and abroad come here to spot the majestic beast. Watching Asiatic lions is top on the list of things to do in Gir, India. 

Apart from being a paradise for wildlife lovers, there are also plenty of other activities to do in Gir. Activities that you can enjoy while on a family vacation, especially when you are staying at one of the best resorts in Gir - the Club Mahindra Gir Resort in Junagadh.

Here’s a list of things to do in Gir that will certainly make for a memorable family vacation: 

1. Forest Safari In Gir

First and foremost, sign yourself up for the riveting jungle safari, one of the best things to do in Gir. It offers an experience like no other. Don’t be surprised when the big cats walk alongside your vehicle! Your jeep will be driven by an expert driver at a very slow pace so you don’t frighten or provoke the lions. The safari gives you a proper ‘wildlife’ experience as you notice the animals in their natural habitat.

Where: Gir Interpretation Zone

Cost: Rs 5300

Timings: 8 AM to 11 AM, 3 PM to 5 PM

2. Bird Watching In Gir

Visiting a wildlife park is all about observing animals and birds at their natural best. Gir is one of the most preferred reserves for birding, thanks to it being home to some really rare species. These amazing birds should be on your list of things to see in Gir. It is an ideal place for spotting all kinds of migratory birds, such as the pygmy woodpecker, greater flamingo and Bonelli’s eagle. So don't forget to carry your camera and a pair of binoculars. Bird watching is one of the best things to do in Gir for nature lovers.

Where: Sasan Gir

Cost: NA

Timings: Daytime, during October-March

3. Shopping In Gir

Visiting Gujarat and not shopping for any locally made handicraft items? How outrageous! Like we mentioned earlier, there are activities to do in Gir apart from sightseeing. Indulge in some retail therapy at Gir’s entry and exit gates, where you can find a variety of colourful and traditional clothing items. Look forward to picking up patola silk sarees, bandhnis, and ghaghra-cholis, as well as handmade items (such as wall hangings and cradle clothes) to take back with you to decorate your home.

Where: Souvenir Shop in Gir National Park

Cost: Depends on budget and the number of items purchased

Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM

4. Tribal Festivals In Gir

Maldharis and Siddhis are two tribes residing in Gir. They organise festivals every year that allow visitors to mingle with their folk. This is a great chance for travellers to get to know about their lives, rituals, and traditions. Catch some folk dance performances and indulge in some great local food; you will find yourself greatly enriched by the experience.

Where: Dang Darbar, Chitra Vichitra Fair

Cost: Rs 500 Timings: 5 PM - 7 PM

5. Beach Visit Near Gir

Definitely add Diu to your list of places to visit while in Gir. A mere 65 km from Gir is the union territory of Diu. Situated on a small island off the coast, it provides a fine experience for people of all ages, and makes for a quick family trip during your vacation at Gir. Take a stroll along the sandy beach and dip your feet in the ocean. Watch your children enjoy themselves as they make sandcastles. Perfect for a visit throughout the year, Diu Island is an unforgettable locale that you shouldn’t miss at any cost!

Where: Diu Island

Cost: NA

Timings: All Day

6. Crocodile Breeding Centre In Gir

Though they can seem scary, crocodiles are beautiful beasts that have their own unique niche in the ecosystem. They can be perfectly docile depending on the way they are looked after and who looks after them. Experience how crocodiles are bred and learn more about the importance of their conservation right here in beautiful Gir. It is one of the best thing to do in Gir for reptile lovers.

Where: Crocodile Breeding Centre, near Sinh Sadan

Cost: Free

Timings: 8:30 AM to 6 PM

7. Magic Workshop In Gir

Apart from the numerous activities to do in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, Club Mahindra Resort at Gir also offers a myriad of activities that you can enjoy within the premises. Magic shows, for instance, are very popular, especially with the kids. Watch magicians perform tricks and also learn some tricks yourself at the workshop! It is a unique experience that the whole family can enjoy.

Where: Club Mahindra Resort

Cost: No additional cost

Timings: 5 PM to 7 PM

8. Nature Walk In Gir

Why not take a walk through the expansive buffer zone that the Club Mahindra Resort shares with Gir Wildlife Sanctuary? Nature lovers can explore the area with a guide and watch the thriving birdlife. If you wish to make your experience even more enriching, take a tour of the local farms and villages nearby to get a feel of the rustic forest life.

Where: Sanctuary Buffer Zone, Club Mahindra Resort

Cost: No additional cost

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

9. Thrill Zone In Gir

Have the perfect recreational family time as you mimic grand family holidays enjoyed by big Bollywood families (think Hum Saath Saath Hain). Engage in sports and leisure activities with your family – cricket, badminton, football, chess, carrom, pool, air hockey – or simply watch movies that you can choose from the never-ending list of DVDs in the resort library. It is one of the best things to do in Gir with family.

Where: Thrill Zone, Club Mahindra Gir Resort

Cost: No additional cost

Timings: All day

10. Aqua Zorbing In Gir

Feeling lazy but don’t want to miss out on a whole day during your vacation? Here’s a great solution: go aqua zorbing! This water sport is not only fun but also a really good workout. It also means you won’t have any regrets later when you binge on delicious Gujarati fare at the resort’s restaurant!

Where: Swimming pool, Club Mahindra Resort

Cost: No additional cost

Timings: All day

Other places to visit in Gir

Kamleshwar Dam:

Enjoy the serenity of the Kamleshwar Dam, a stunning water body and one of the best places to visit Gir with your loved ones. It's not just a popular spot but also a crucial water source. The dam is home to crocodiles, making it a delightful visit for nature enthusiasts. Birdwatching is a captivating activity here, with various bird species flocking to the area. Kamleshwar Dam, offering sparkling views of Hiran River, is a fantastic getaway for family and friends. 

Girnar Hills:

Steeped in Vedic history, Girnar Hill is a sacred site in Gir attracting, Hindu and Jain pilgrims. Believed to have existed since the Mohenjo Daro period, it's a spiritual place with breathtaking views. Those seeking adventurous activities to do in Gir can find numerous thrilling trekking options here, including a 10,000-step trek taking 7.5 hours. Along the way, discover temples like Dattatreya, Kamandulu Kund, and Sri Ambaji. Pay your respects at Dattatreya Paduka on the 9999th step, an ancient temple on Girnar Hill. 

Nalsarovar Lake:

Nalsarovar Lake is a haven for nature lovers and a crucial wetland in India. It boasts a vast population of waterfowl and is a paradise for bird species. Recognized as one of India's largest bird sanctuaries, it's a beautiful spot for bird watching and one of the best things to do in Gir for nature enthusiasts. 

Uparkot Fort:

Built around 319 BC by Chandragupta, Uparkot Fort is a historic site in Junagadh. With caves dating back to the 1st and 4th centuries AD, it features beautiful pillars and carvings. The fort has a 300-foot moat with crocodiles and houses temples like Ganesh, Hanuman, and Shakti. Notable architectural sites include Baba Pyara Caves, Navghan Kuvo, Jami Masjid, Buddhist Caves, and Adi-Kadi Vav. Surviving 16 sieges over 1000 years, it's among the fascinating places to visit in Gir for history buffs. 

Durbar Hall Museum:

Also known as the City Palace in Uparkot, Durbar Hall Museum is a significant historical site in Gir Gujarat. With an extensive collection of silver articles, paintings, costumes, thrones, and tapestries, it offers a glimpse into royal Nawabi life. The museum features a carpet woven in the Junagadh Jail and showcases paintings from the royal galleries. It's a place where the songs of the movie "1920 London" were filmed, adding a touch of cinematic history to your visit. 

Best time to visit Gir 

If you are visiting Gir Sanctuary to see the king of the Jungle roaming freely in their natural habitat, December to March is the most suitable time. During this time, the weather is cool and pleasant to go on a safari ride, and you have better chances of spotting the lions; the sightings tend to be high during the day.  

The core Gir forest zone remains closed during the Monsoon season between June and October. So, it is best to avoid visiting this place during this time. The summer season is also an excellent time to visit Gir as the atmosphere is clear and bright, and it is a great time for the best things to do in Gir like spotting the animals and photographing wildlife.  

Important things to remember while visiting Gir National Park Forest for Jungle Safari 

• Avoid wearing bright-coloured clothes as they catch unwanted attention from wild animals.
• Never try to feed the animals in the jungle. It can be risky.
• Avoid wearing any strong perfume while going on the safari ride. Wild animals have a strong sense of smell, which may disturb the wild animals.
• Always wear comfortable clothes and good shoes and carry water bottles, a camera and binoculars. 

How To Reach Gir 

By Air:

The nearest airport to Gir is Keshod Airport (IXK) located approximately 70 km away. However, it has limited connectivity. The nearest major airport with better connectivity is Rajkot Airport (RAJ), which is about 160 km away. You can book a flight to either of these airports and then hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Gir. 

By Train:

The nearest railway station to Gir is Junagadh Railway Station, which is approximately 65 km away. Another option is Veraval Railway Station, which is 40 km away. These stations are well-connected to major cities in India, such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Rajkot. After arriving at the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Gir. 

By Road:

Gir is well connected to major cities in Gujarat via National Highway 8D and other state highways. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car or use your own vehicle to reach Gir. The distance from Ahmedabad to Gir is approximately 350 km, and the journey takes about 7-8 hours. 

Resorts in Gir

You can indulge in these activities and several more during your family vacation at Club Mahindra Gir Resort. The property offers comfortable and spacious rooms with a host of modern amenities. The myriad activities on offer are sure to keep your children entertained. The in-house restaurant lets you relish various local dishes of Gujarat with your family. Get a Club Mahindra membership now to become a part of our family, and get the most out of every vacation you take! Still in two minds? Check the Club Mahindra reviews online today to see what members have said about family holidays with Club Mahindra.