Gir National Park
Gir National Park is situated in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, around 43 km from Junagadh city and 65 km from Somnath. The park’s main entry point is at Sasan Gir, a small town that serves as the base for all safari activities. Gir National Park is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions roam freely in the wild. Established in 1965, the park covers an area of 1,412 sq. km and is a haven for diverse wildlife, including leopards, striped hyenas, jackals, crocodiles, and over 300 species of birds. This dry deciduous forest with acacia, teak, and grasslands is one of the most significant conservation successes in India.
HOW TO REACH GIR NATIONAL PARK
By Air:
- The nearest airport to Gir National Park (Sasan) is Keshod (60 km) & Diu Airport (110 km), which have limited flights.
- The nearest major airport is Rajkot Airport (160 km) with better connectivity to Mumbai, Delhi, and other major cities.
- Ahmedabad International Airport (350 km) is the best option for international travelers.
By Train:
- The nearest railway station to Gir National Park is located at Sasan, approximately 60 Km from Junagadh Railway Station which is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat.
- Veraval Railway Station (45 km) is another option, especially for those traveling from Somnath.
- Rajkot Railway Station (160 km) is the best choice for better train connectivity.
By Road:
- Well-connected by road, Gir can be reached via Rajkot, Junagadh, Somnath, and Ahmedabad.
- Gujarat State Transport and private buses run regularly.
- Taxis and rental cars are available from major cities.
BEST TIME TO VISIT GIR NATIONAL PARK
- Winter (November to February): Best time for wildlife sightings and comfortable weather.
- Summer (March to June): Hot weather, but excellent chances of spotting lions near waterholes.
- Monsoon (July to October): The park remains closed from 16th June to 15th October due to heavy rains.
THINGS TO DO IN GIR NATIONAL PARK
- Jungle Safari
A safari in Gir National Park offers the thrilling experience of spotting Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. Safaris are conducted in open gypsies with an experienced guide.
- Bird Watching
Gir is home to over 300 bird species, including the Indian Pitta, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Painted Sandgrouse, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
- Visit Crocodile Breeding Center
Located near Sasan Gir, this center provides insight into the conservation of marsh crocodiles.
An alternative to the main Gir safari, Devalia is a fenced area where lions, leopards, and deer can be easily spotted.
Situated on the mighty Shetrunji river banks, the Ambardi Wildlife Interpretation Zone (popularly known as Ambardi Safari Park) is located approximately 7 km from Dhari taluka in the Gujarat state. The beautiful undulating terrain, proximity to a large water reservoir, and the famous Khodiyar temple give visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.
Girnar Nature Safari is located in the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, which spreads across the Girnar Hills in Junagadh district, Gujarat. It is around 8 km from Junagadh city and is a significant part of the larger Gir forest ecosystem.
- Visit Kamleshwar Dam: A scenic spot inside the park known for bird watching and crocodiles.
- Explore Nearby Attractions
- Somnath Temple (65 km) – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva.
- Junagadh (43 km) – Home to the Uparkot Fort, Mahabat Maqbara, and Girnar Hills.
Diu (110 km) – A beach town with Portuguese-era forts and churches.
GIR SAFARI TIMINGS AND PRICES
Season | Days | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
Winter | Monday To Sunday | 6:45 AM to 9:45 AM | 3 PM to 6 PM |
Winter/Summer | Monday To Sunday | 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM | – |
Summer | Monday To Sunday | 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM | 4 PM to 7 PM |
Note: Gir Jungle Safari is closed from 16th June to 15th Oct every year. | |||
Season | Days | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
Winter | Monday To Sunday | 6:45 AM to 9:45 AM | 3 PM to 6 PM |
Winter/Summer | Monday To Sunday | 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM | – |
Summer | Monday To Sunday | 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM | 4 PM to 7 PM |
Note: Gir Jungle Safari is closed from 16th June to 15th Oct every year. | |||
PERMIT CHARGES | ||||
Vehicle Type | Days | Particulars | Indian (Rs.) | Foreigner (Rs.) |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | Up To 6 persons | 800 | 6560 |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | Extra Child | 100 | 1640 |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | Up To 6 persons | 1000 | 8200 |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | Extra Child | 125 | 2050 |
Note: In one E-permit maximum 6 persons (plus one child between 3-12 years) are allowed. | ||||
PERMIT CHARGES | ||||
Vehicle Type | Days | Particulars | Indian (Rs.) | Foreigner (Rs.) |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | Up To 6 persons | 800 | 6560 |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | Extra Child | 100 | 1640 |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | Up To 6 persons | 1000 | 8200 |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | Extra Child | 125 | 2050 |
Note: In one E-permit maximum 6 persons (plus one child between 3-12 years) are allowed. | ||||
SAFARI VEHICLE CHARGES | |
Type of Vehicle | Price |
4 seater new safari vehicle | 2500/- |
6 seater new safari vehicle | 3500/- |
8 seater new comfortable safari vehicle | 4500/- |
SAFARI VEHICLE CHARGES | |
Type of Vehicle | Price |
4 seater new safari vehicle | 2500/- |
6 seater new safari vehicle | 3500/- |
8 seater new comfortable safari vehicle | 4500/- |
GUIDE CHARGES | |
Guide Type | Charges |
Naturalist | 700/- |
Guide G1 (12th Pass) | 500/- |
Guide G2 (10th Pass) | 400/- |
GUIDE CHARGES | |
Guide Type | Charges |
Naturalist | 700/- |
Guide G1 (12th Pass) | 500/- |
Guide G2 (10th Pass) | 400/- |
Tips for Visting Gir National Park
✔ Book safaris in advance through the official website.
✔ Wear earth-toned clothes and avoid bright colors.
✔ Carry binoculars and a camera for wildlife viewing.
✔ Follow all forest department rules and avoid littering.
✔ Mobile network coverage is limited in the park area.
Gir National Park is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the majestic Asiatic lion in its natural habitat. Plan your visit carefully and experience the beauty of Gujarat’s wilderness.
Devalia Park Safari, also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone, is a special eco-tourism area created to provide visitors with a quick and assured opportunity to see Asiatic lions and other wildlife in a controlled environment. Located within the Gir National Park buffer zone, Devalia Safari Park is a fenced area where wildlife is kept in a semi-natural habitat, making it easier for tourists to spot animals without venturing deep into the forest. This is an ideal option for those who have limited time or do not want to take the longer Gir Jungle Safari.
- In order to reduce human interference in the main area of Gir National Park, and facilitate tourists to better understand the importance of Gir and its varied wildlife, an interpretation zone has been developed at Devalia.
- Devalia Safari Park is located at Talala Gujarat and it is the best place for those tourists who wish to ensure sighting of lions in their natural habitat. Devalia Safari Park is around 13 Km from Sasan Gir.
- Limited number of entry permit for the safari is issued by the forest department every day. It is served on the first come and first serve.
- One can obtain permit 3 months before the exact date of your travel date.
- Please carry the same ID card that you produced at the time of booking.
- Please note that on the spot booking for Devalia Safari Booking is not possible.
- Official Booking Website: https://girlion.gujarat.gov.in/
BEST TIME TO VISIT DEVALIA SAFARI PARK
Devalia Park Safari is open throughout the year, unlike Gir National Park, which remains closed during the monsoon. However, the best time to visit is:
October to March – Pleasant weather, high chances of wildlife sightings.
April to June – Hot season, but good for spotting lions as they come near water sources.
July to September – The park remains open, but heavy monsoons can affect visibility.
Difference Between Devalia Park Safari & Gir Jungle Safari
Feature | Devalia Park Safari | Gir Jungle Safari |
Duration | 30-40 minutes | 3 hours |
Chances of Lion Sighting | Very high | Moderate |
Safari Type | Bus & Jeep | Jeep only |
Best For | Quick wildlife experience | Deeper jungle exploration |
Best Time to Visit | All year | October to June |
Fencing | Yes (controlled environment) | No (wild habitat) |
Feature | Devalia Park Safari | Gir Jungle Safari |
Duration | 30-40 minutes | 3 hours |
Chances of Lion Sighting | Very high | Moderate |
Safari Type | Bus & Jeep | Jeep only |
Best For | Quick wildlife experience | Deeper jungle exploration |
Best Time to Visit | All year | October to June |
Fencing | Yes (controlled environment) | No (wild habitat) |
TIME TABLE (DEVALIA PARKS GYPSY SAFARI) | |||
Season | Days | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
Winter | Monday To Sunday | 7 am to 7:55 am | 3 pm to 3:55 pm |
8 am to 8:55 am | 4 pm to 4:55 pm | ||
9 am to 9:55 am | 5 pm to 5:55 pm | ||
10 am to 10:55 am | – | ||
Summer | Monday To Sunday | 6:30 am to 7:25 am | 3:45 pm to 4:40 pm |
7:30 am to 8:25 am | 4:45 pm to 5:40 pm | ||
8:30 am to 9:25 am | 5:45 pm to 6:40 pm | ||
9:30 am to 10:25 am | – | ||
TIME TABLE (DEVALIA PARKS BUS SAFARI) | |||
Season | Days | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
Winter | Monday To Sunday | 7:30 am to 8:00 am | 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm |
8:00 am to 8:30 am | 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm | ||
8:30 am to 9:00 am | 4:00 pm to 4:30 pm | ||
9:00 am to 09:30 am | 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm | ||
9:30 am to 10:00 am | – | ||
10:00 am to 10:30 am | – | ||
10:30 am to 11:00 am | – | ||
Summer | Monday To Sunday | 7:00 am to 7:30 am | 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm |
7:30 am to 8:00 am | 5:00 pm to 5:30 pm | ||
8:00 am to 8:30 am | 5:30 pm to 6:00 pm | ||
8:30 am to 9:00 am | 6:00 pm to 6:30 pm | ||
9:00 am to 9:30 am | – | ||
9:30 am to 10:00 am | – | ||
10:00 am to 10:30 am | – | ||
Note: Devalia Safari Park remains closed on every Wednesday. | |||
PERMIT CHARGES | ||||
Vehicle Type | Days | Indian (Rs.) | Foreigner (Rs.) | Particulars |
Mini Bus | Monday-Friday | 150 | 3280 | – |
Mini Bus | Saturday/Sunday/ | 190 | 4100 | – |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | 800 | 6560 | Up To 6 persons |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | 100 | 1640 | Extra Child |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | 1000 | 8200 | Up To 6 persons |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | 125 | 2050 | Extra Child |
Note: In one E-permit maximum 6 persons (plus one child between 3-12 years) are allowed. | ||||
PERMIT CHARGES | ||||
Vehicle Type | Days | Indian (Rs.) | Foreigner (Rs.) | Particulars |
Mini Bus | Monday-Friday | 150 | 3280 | – |
Mini Bus | Saturday/Sunday/ | 190 | 4100 | – |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | 800 | 6560 | Up To 6 persons |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | 100 | 1640 | Extra Child |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | 1000 | 8200 | Up To 6 persons |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | 125 | 2050 | Extra Child |
Note: In one E-permit maximum 6 persons (plus one child between 3-12 years) are allowed. | ||||
SAFARI VEHICLE CHARGES | ||
Category | Type of Vehicle | Price |
A | 4 Seater New Safari Vehicle | 2000/- |
6 Seater New Safari Vehicle | 2500/- | |
8 Seater New Comfortable Safari Vehicle | 3000/- | |
B | 6 Seater Old Safari Vehicle | 1600/- |
SAFARI VEHICLE CHARGES | ||
Category | Type of Vehicle | Price |
A | 4 Seater New Safari Vehicle | 2000/- |
6 Seater New Safari Vehicle | 2500/- | |
8 Seater New Comfortable Safari Vehicle | 3000/- | |
B | 6 Seater Old Safari Vehicle | 1600/- |
GUIDE CHARGES | |
Guide Type | Charges |
Naturalist | 700/- |
Guide G1 (12th Pass) | 500/- |
Guide G2 (10th Pass) | 400/- |
GUIDE CHARGES | |
Guide Type | Charges |
Naturalist | 700/- |
Guide G1 (12th Pass) | 500/- |
Guide G2 (10th Pass) | 400/- |
Why Visit Devalia Safari Park?
🔹 Easy and quick lion spotting – Best for those on a short trip.
🔹 Budget-friendly compared to the Gir Jungle Safari.
🔹 Ideal for families and kids due to its safe and controlled environment.
🔹 Open all year round, even during monsoon season.
Whether you’re short on time or just want a guaranteed wildlife experience, Devalia Safari Park is the perfect alternative to the Gir Jungle Safari.
Girnar Nature Safari is an exciting wildlife safari introduced in the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, which is part of the Girnar Hills range near Junagadh, Gujarat. Unlike the traditional Gir National Park Safari, this safari offers a unique opportunity to explore the rugged terrains of Girnar, home to Asiatic lions, leopards, sloth bears, and diverse birdlife. The safari route is designed to provide a scenic and adventurous wildlife experience, making it an excellent alternative for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Girnar Nature Safari is located in the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, which spreads across the Girnar Hills in Junagadh district, Gujarat. It is around 8 km from Junagadh city and is a significant part of the larger Gir forest ecosystem.
HOW TO REACH GIRNAR NATURE SAFARI
By Air:
- Nearest Airport to Girnar : Rajkot Airport (105 km) – Connected to major Indian cities.
- Diu Airport (150 km) – Limited flights, but an option for tourists coming from Mumbai.
- Ahmedabad International Airport (320 km) – Best for international travelers.
By Train:
- Junagadh Railway Station (8 km) – Closest major railway station, well-connected with Gujarat’s cities.
- Rajkot Railway Station (100 km) – A better option for long-distance train connectivity.
By Road:
- Girnar is well connected by road, and Junagadh serves as the main entry point.
- Private taxis, rental cars, and buses operate from Rajkot, Somnath, Ahmedabad, and other major cities.
BEST TIME TO VISIT GIRNAR NATURE SAFARI
November to March – Pleasant weather, best wildlife sightings.
April to June – Hot season, but animals can be spotted near water bodies.
July to September – Monsoon brings lush greenery, but wildlife sightings may be reduced.
THINGS TO DO IN GIRNAR NATURE SAFARI
1. Wildlife Safari
The main attraction is the Jeep Safari, where visitors can spot:
- Asiatic lions – Found in small numbers in Girnar Hills.
- Leopards – Higher chances of sighting compared to Gir National Park.
- Sloth Bears – A key attraction in this region.
- Chinkaras, nilgai (blue bulls), wild boars, and hyenas.
2. Bird Watching
Girnar is home to over 200 bird species, including:
- Vultures, eagles, and falcons.
- The rare long-billed vulture, often seen on rocky cliffs.
- Peafowls, partridges, and colorful migratory birds.
3. Photography & Nature Exploration
- The rugged Girnar Hills provide stunning landscapes for nature photography.
- Sunrise and sunset views from Girnar Hills are breathtaking.
4. Girnar Ropeway & Trekking (Nearby Attraction)
- Girnar is famous for its Girnar Ropeway, the longest ropeway in Asia, offering breathtaking aerial views of the surrounding forest.
- Pilgrims and trekkers can climb over 10,000 steps to reach the Girnar Jain Temples and Dattatreya Temple at the summit.
GIRNAR NATURE SAFARI TIMINGS & PRICES
TIMINGS | |||
Season | Days | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
Summer | Monday To Sunday | 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM | 4 PM to 7 PM |
Winter | Monday To Sunday | 6:45 AM to 9:45 AM | 3 PM to 6 PM |
Note: The Sanctuary remains closed from 16th June to 15th Oct every year. | |||
TIMINGS | |||
Season | Days | Morning Timings | Evening Timings |
Summer | Monday To Sunday | 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM | 4 PM to 7 PM |
Winter | Monday To Sunday | 6:45 AM to 9:45 AM | 3 PM to 6 PM |
Note: The Sanctuary remains closed from 16th June to 15th Oct every year. | |||
PERMIT CHARGES | ||||
Vehicle Type | Days | Indian (Rs.) | Foreigner (Rs.) | Particulars |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | 800 | 6560 | Up To 6 persons |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | 100 | 1640 | Extra Child |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | 1000 | 8200 | Up To 6 persons |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | 125 | 2050 | Extra Child |
Note: In one E-permit maximum 6 persons (plus one child between 3-12 years) are allowed. | ||||
PERMIT CHARGES | ||||
Vehicle Type | Days | Indian (Rs.) | Foreigner (Rs.) | Particulars |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | 800 | 6560 | Up To 6 persons |
Gypsy | Monday to Friday | 100 | 1640 | Extra Child |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | 1000 | 8200 | Up To 6 persons |
Gypsy | Saturday/Sunday/ | 125 | 2050 | Extra Child |
Note: In one E-permit maximum 6 persons (plus one child between 3-12 years) are allowed. | ||||
WHY VISIT GIRNAR NATURE SAFARI?
- Less crowded than Gir National Park, offering a more peaceful safari experience.
- Great chance to spot leopards and sloth bears, apart from lions.
- Scenic landscape of Girnar Hills adds an adventurous touch.
- Close to Junagadh city, making it easily accessible.
- Combination of wildlife, birdwatching, trekking, and ropeway experience.
Girnar Nature Safari is a hidden gem for wildlife lovers who want an offbeat and thrilling adventure in Gujarat. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or nature lover, this safari is an experience you shouldn’t miss!
Tips for Visting Girnar Nature Safari
✔ Book your safari in advance through the official Gujarat Forest Department website.
✔ Wear comfortable, earthy-colored clothes (avoid bright colors).
✔ Carry binoculars and a camera for better wildlife viewing.
✔ Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best animal sightings.
✔ Respect wildlife rules – Do not make noise, feed animals, or litter.