Blog Details

Gir National Park

Gir lion safari

• Author : Adeeb Sahil
• Date : June 05, 2025

Gir National Park is in Gujarat, India. It is famous because it is the only place in the world where you can still see Asiatic lions living in the wild. The park covers a large area of about 1,412 square kilometers (approx.). The land in Gir Park has dry forests, grasslands, and bushes. Many birds, animals, and plants live in this natural place. One interesting fact is that Asiatic lions in Gir often sit or lie in open areas, not hiding in thick trees like African lions. This makes it easier to see them during a Gir lion safari. In this guide, you will learn about the animals in Gir, the different plants and birds, the nearby people and their culture, and helpful tips for planning your trip to Gir National Park.

1. The Asiatic Lion

The Asiatic lion is a special kind of lion that only lives in Gir National Park. These lions are smaller in size compared to African lions. They also look a bit different. Their manes are small, and there is loose skin on the stomach area. Long ago, these lions lived in many places, including the Middle East and India. Now, they are only found in Gir. You can spot them by taking a Gir lion safari. The land where they live in Gir has trees, bushes, and small hills. This kind of land is good for both lions and the animals they hunt. The ideal time for a Gir lion safari is early morning or late afternoon. These are the times when the lions are most active and move around frequently.

Additional Tip

Be patient when looking for lions. Walk or drive quietly and listen carefully. If birds or monkeys make alarm calls, it may mean a lion is nearby. Your guide can help you know when to stop and look.

2. Many Types Of Plants And Animals

Gir Park is not only about lions. The park has around 400 kinds of plants. There are different types of trees, like teak and flame-of-the-forest, and you can also see thick bamboo and dry bushes. Some parts are green all year, while other parts are dry. You can see many animals too. Leopards live here but are shy and hard to spot. Spotted deer (called chital) and sambar deer eat grass in open areas. The four-horned antelope, also known as chousingha, is a rare animal that lives here too.

You can see crocodiles near Kamleshwar Dam. Small wild cats called rusty-spotted cats hide in the dry leaves. Around 300 different bird species are also found in this area. These birds help keep the forest healthy. The park and the people who take care of it work hard to protect all these animals and plants. They run special programs to help animals breed, stop illegal hunting, and support eco-tourism. Because of this, the park is in good shape and full of life.

3. Beautiful Nature All Around

Gir National Park is a very beautiful place. This place has hills, dry grass, and thorny bushes. Rivers and small lakes also flow through the park. The Kamleshwar Reservoir is one of the most important water sources in the park. Many animals and birds come here to drink water or live nearby. During the rainy season, everything turns green and fresh. It becomes cooler and looks very different from the dry season. Even during hot months, the park has wildflowers and strong trees with big roots. There are some paths where you can walk or hike. These trails give you good views of the forest and the land. It is quiet in many places. You may hear only the sounds of birds or the wind in the trees. These places help you feel more connected to nature.

4. A Great Place For Birdwatching

If you like birds, Gir National Park is a great place to visit. The park has around 300 types of birds. Some birds live here all the time, and some come during certain seasons. You might see big birds like the crested serpent eagle sitting in trees. The Indian pitta is a small, colorful bird that moves quickly. The paradise flycatcher is a white bird with a long tail. It looks very special as it moves between trees. Near the water, you can find kingfishers. In the dry parts of the forest, you may see small birds like warblers and babblers.

Best Time For Birdwatching

• Go in the early morning or late afternoon. Birds are more active during these times. Bring good binoculars and a notebook to write down what you see. Listen carefully, because sometimes you hear a bird before you see it.
• Some rare birds you might see include the lesser florican, Indian eagle-owl, and painted sandgrouse. Birdwatchers get very excited when they see these rare birds.

5. Local People And Culture Nearby

Outside the park, you can visit small villages like Sasan Gir. People from the Maldhari community live here. They have lived near the lions for a very long time. They take care of cows and goats and live in simple homes. You can visit their homes and talk to them. They are friendly and will offer you tea and tell you stories about their lives and lions. People in these villages also make things with their hands. These things show their local traditions and skills. You can try dishes like bajra roti (flatbread), kadhi (yogurt curry), and fresh buttermilk. Meeting the people who live near the park helps you understand how animals and people can share the same land. It also shows how local people help protect the forest and wildlife.

6. Best Time To Visit Gir

Gir National Park stays open from the middle of October to the middle of June. November to February is best. The weather is dry and cool. Animal sightings are usually better in these months. March to June is very hot, but you might see more animals near water. The park is closed from mid-June to mid-October because of rain.

What To Pack

Wear light and comfortable clothes in brown or green. Bring a hat, sunscreen, insect spray, and strong shoes. Bring a Zoom camera and a small book that shows birds and animals. Early winter months are good for visiting and watching wildlife. The weather is nice, and animals and birds are easy to see.