The Gir National Park is situated around 65kms from the city of Junagadh, which comes under the district of Junagadh, Gujarat. The Park was established in the year 1965 only as a forest reserve but afterwards it was declared as a national park by the government of India. The Park covers an area of around 2450 hectares, which abounds in wildlife.
Location- The Park is situated in the district of Junagadh of Gujarat.
Gir National Park plays a crucial role in global conservation efforts, particularly for the Asiatic lion. As the last remaining natural habitat for this species, the park's success in increasing the lion population is a testament to effective conservation strategies. However, the concentration of the entire wild Asiatic lion population in one area also poses risks, such as vulnerability to diseases or natural disasters.
The park faces ongoing challenges, including balancing tourism with conservation, managing human-wildlife conflict in surrounding areas, and ensuring genetic diversity within the lion population. Future conservation efforts may focus on establishing additional habitats for Asiatic lions to reduce the risks associated with a single population.
Gir National Park stands as a shining example of successful wildlife conservation in India. Its unique ecosystem, diverse wildlife, and the presence of the majestic Asiatic lion make it an invaluable natural treasure. As we move forward, continued protection and sustainable management of this park will be crucial for preserving its rich biodiversity and ensuring the survival of the Asiatic lion for generations to come.
Fast facts Date of establishment- 18th September, 1965.
Flora- The Park mainly comprises of deciduous type of forests. Some of the common trees seen here are Teak, Jamun, Ber, acacia, babul etc.
Area covered- 2,450 hectares.
Fauna- The Gir national park is the home of the endangered species of Asiatic lions. Asiatic lions are found only here in Gir national park. In addition, one can also see animals like jungle cats, hyenas, mongoose, leopards, desert cats, sambar, nilgai, chital, chinkara, wild boar, marsh crocodiles, monitoe lizard, tortoise and many more.
Gir National Park, located in the state of Gujarat in western India, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and the last remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion. Covering an area of 1,412 square kilometers, this park is a crucial conservation site and a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The park is characterized by its diverse landscape, featuring rugged hills with high ridges, densely forested valleys, and sprawling grassy plateaus. It falls within the Kathiawar-Gir dry deciduous forests ecoregion, which extends across parts of Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The vegetation is primarily composed of dry deciduous forests, with teak being a dominant species, interspersed with dry savannah forests
Seven perennial rivers flow through the park: Datardi, Godavari, Hiran, Machhundri, Raval, Shetrunji, and Shingoda. Four of these rivers - Hiran, Machhundri, Raval, and Shingoda - have dams that have created reservoirs. These water sources are vital for the park's ecosystem and provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities1.
Gir National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, with over 2,300 species recorded within its boundaries. The park's fauna includes:
Mammals: 38 species, including the star attraction - the Asiatic lion. Other notable mammals are Indian leopards, jungle cats, hyenas, desert cats, honey badgers, and mongooses
Birds: 300 species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers1.
Reptiles: 37 species, including crocodiles, Indian cobras, monitor lizards, and tortoises
Insects: A vast number of species, contributing significantly to the park's biodiversity
Other popular wildlife encounters include blackbucks, wild boars, chinkara, chital, four-horned antelopes, nilgai, porcupines, and sambar deer
The park boasts over 500 plant species, creating a diverse forest habitat. Teak and banyan trees are prominent among the deciduous species. This varied vegetation provides excellent cover and sustenance for the park's abundant wildlife, particularly its rich avian population
Gir National Park serves as a crucial wildlife sanctuary, with a primary focus on protecting and conserving the Asiatic lion population. Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts, the lion population has been steadily increasing in recent years. As of 2025, there are over 500 Asiatic lions within the park's boundaries, making it the only place in the world where these majestic creatures roam freely in the wild.
The park is open to visitors from October 16th to June 15th each year. The best time to visit is during the winter season, from December to March, when temperatures are moderate (around 20°C) and ideal for safari activities. April and May offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as animals congregate near water sources due to the heat, but temperatures can be uncomfortably high. The park remains closed during the monsoon season from June 16th to October 15th.
Visitors can obtain entry permits at the Sinh Sadan Orientation Centre near the park's main gate or book online through the official park website. One pass admits up to six persons, with additional charges for children between 3 to 12 years old. Photography fees and guide fees are charged separately.
The primary way to explore Gir National Park is through jeep safaris. These guided tours offer visitors the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat while adhering to strict conservation guidelines. The Devalia Safari Park, also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone, provides an alternative experience for visitors. This 412-hectare fenced area replicates the Gir ecosystem and allows visitors to see various wildlife species in a more controlled environment.
To ensure a safe and responsible visit, visitors should follow these guidelines:
Do's:
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance
Maintain silence during safaris
Wear appropriate clothing (covering arms and legs)
Use binoculars for better wildlife viewing
Don'ts:
Don't ask drivers or guides to violate park rules
Avoid loud noises or playing music
Don't litter or feed animals
No smoking inside the park
Avoid using perfumes or strong-smelling substances.