For those who seek adventure in the arms of nature and thrill in the call of the wild, Gir National Park is a dream destination. Located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, this vast sanctuary is the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion, making it an exceptional wildlife destination not only in India but across the globe. The raw beauty of its dry deciduous forest, the rhythmic calls of its wild inhabitants, and the serenity of its natural trails make Gir a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
To fully embrace this wilderness and its majestic inhabitants, choosing the right Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package is essential. A well-planned tour ensures not just a chance to spot wildlife, but also a seamless, enriching experience surrounded by nature’s wonders. Whether you’re an avid wildlife photographer, a birdwatcher, or simply someone who cherishes the untamed outdoors, here’s everything you need to know about Gir and the best tour packages available.
Why Gir National Park?
Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1965 and a national park in 1975, Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (also called Sasan Gir) covers over 1,400 square kilometers. It’s home to more than 600 Asiatic lions, a thriving population of leopards, and a variety of herbivores such as chinkara, sambar, and nilgai. The park also houses marsh crocodiles, monitor lizards, and over 300 species of birds, making it a hotspot for biodiversity.
Gir’s unique ecosystem of rugged hills, teak forests, and grasslands is the perfect setting for an immersive wildlife experience.
Best Time to Visit Gir National Park
The park is open to visitors from mid-October to mid-June. The best time to go on a Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package is between December and March, when the weather is pleasant, and the chances of spotting wildlife are at their peak.
During the summer months (April to mid-June), animals tend to come out to watering holes, offering excellent sightings, albeit in hotter conditions. The park remains closed during the monsoon (mid-June to mid-October) to protect the ecosystem and ensure animal safety.
What to Expect in a Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package
A thoughtfully curated Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package combines the thrill of a jungle safari with the comfort of well-arranged logistics and accommodations. Here are the main highlights:
1. Jeep Safari Experience
The heart of the Gir experience is the open jeep safari. Each safari lasts around 3 hours and is accompanied by an expert guide and a forest department driver. You’ll drive through designated routes across different zones of the park, increasing your chances of spotting not just lions, but also elusive leopards and vibrant birdlife.
Safaris are scheduled thrice a day—morning, afternoon, and evening. Many packages offer multiple safari rides for a higher chance of animal sightings.
2. Devaliya Safari Park Visit
Also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone, Devaliya is a fenced-in portion of the park that offers a quick and convenient way to spot lions and other wildlife. Ideal for families or those with time constraints, Devaliya offers 30–45 minute bus or jeep rides through a well-managed environment that mimics Gir’s natural terrain.
3. Accommodation and Local Cuisine
Most packages include eco-resorts, jungle lodges, or luxury tented camps located near Sasan Gir. These accommodations provide modern comforts while keeping you close to nature. Enjoy traditional Gujarati meals, evening bonfires, and nature walks as part of your stay.
4. Birdwatching and Nature Trails
Gir is home to over 300 species of birds, including crested serpent eagles, paradise flycatchers, Indian pitta, and many migratory species. Tour packages often include early morning birdwatching excursions or guided nature walks for a more intimate experience of the forest.
5. Local Culture and Tribal Villages
Some packages extend beyond wildlife and offer visits to nearby Maldhari villages—home to local communities that live in harmony with the forest. This cultural insight adds a unique and human dimension to your wildlife adventure.
Types of Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Packages
There are several types of packages available based on your travel goals:
1. Budget-Friendly Wildlife Weekend (2D/1N)
- One jeep safari
- Overnight stay in standard lodge
- Visit to Devaliya Safari Park
- Meals included
2. Nature Lover’s Extended Stay (3D/2N or 4D/3N)
- Two or more jeep safaris
- Birdwatching walk and cultural interaction
- Stay at mid-range or deluxe resort
- All meals and park permits included
3. Premium Luxury Wilderness Package
- Private safaris with naturalist guide
- Stay at premium jungle resorts with spa and fine dining
- Exclusive photography sessions
- Personalized services and transfers
Travel Tips for a Great Experience
- Book safari permits in advancevia the official Gir website, especially during peak season.
- Carry government-issued ID prooffor verification at entry gates.
- Dress in neutral or earthy colorsto blend in with the forest and avoid startling wildlife.
- Avoid loud conversations and flash photographyduring safaris.
- Bring binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hatfor daytime safaris.
How to Reach Gir National Park
- By Air: The nearest airport is Rajkot(approx. 160 km) and Diu Airport (approx. 110 km).
- By Train: Junagadhand Veraval are the nearest railway stations with good connectivity.
- By Road: Gir is well-connected via road from Ahmedabad, Somnath, and other major Gujarat cities.
Conclusion
A Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package offers more than just a wildlife sighting—it’s a deep dive into the heart of nature, a chance to witness the regal Asiatic lion in its last natural habitat, and an opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of urban life.
Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family bonding over nature, Gir promises memories that roar loud in your heart for years to come. So, pack your bags and let the wilderness welcome you—because the wild is calling, and Gir is ready to deliver an experience like no other. My site.
