girnar nature safari

Girnar Nature 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.

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.

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.

GIRNAR NATURE SAFARI TIMINGS & PRICES

TIMINGS
Season	Days	Morning Timings	Evening Timings
Summer (1^st March To 15^th June)	Monday To Sunday	6:00 AM to 9:00 AM	4 PM to 7 PM
Winter (16^th October To 28^th/29^th February)	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. Girnar Safari will remain closed during Girnar Parikrama and Mahashivratri Festival every year as per Hindu Calender Days.

TIMINGS
Season	Days	Morning Timings	Evening Timings
Summer (1^st March To 15^th June)	Monday To Sunday	6:00 AM to 9:00 AM	4 PM to 7 PM
Winter (16^th October To 28^th/29^th February)	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. Girnar Safari will remain closed during Girnar Parikrama and Mahashivratri Festival every year as per Hindu Calender Days.

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/ Festival Days	1000	8200	Up To 6 persons
Gypsy	Saturday/Sunday/ Festival Days	125	2050	Extra Child
Note: In one E-permit maximum 6 persons (plus one child between 3-12 years) are allowed. The Permit charges don’t include eco-guide charges (INR 400/-) and safari gypsy charges (INR 2000/-), which must be paid separately to the respective eco-guide and safari gypsy owner.

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/ Festival Days	1000	8200	Up To 6 persons
Gypsy	Saturday/Sunday/ Festival Days	125	2050	Extra Child
Note: In one E-permit maximum 6 persons (plus one child between 3-12 years) are allowed. The Permit charges don’t include eco-guide charges (INR 400/-) and safari gypsy charges (INR 2000/-), which must be paid separately to the respective eco-guide and safari gypsy owner.

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 visiting 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.