Gir in Gujarat is the only wild home of the Asiatic lion in the world. Conservation has helped the population grow steadily, and a safari here is one of India's great wildlife experiences.
Types of Safari
Gir Jungle Trail (Jeep Safari)
Open gypsies enter the national park on fixed routes with a guide. Permits are limited per slot and must be booked online on the official Gir lion safari portal. Book weeks ahead for weekends and holidays.
Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone)
A fenced area near Sasan with lions, leopards and herbivores, seen by bus or jeep. Sightings are almost guaranteed – ideal for families or if jungle permits are sold out.
Ambardi Safari Park
Another interpretation zone near Dhari, on the eastern side.
Timings and Season
- The core park is closed from mid-June to mid-October for the monsoon breeding season.
- Safaris run in morning and afternoon slots (exact times vary by season).
- December–March is pleasant; April–May is hot but excellent for sightings as animals visit waterholes.
What You Might See
Asiatic lions, leopards, sambar, chital, nilgai, chinkara, four-horned antelope, jungle cats, marsh crocodiles at Kamleshwar dam, and around 300 bird species.
Where to Stay
Sasan Gir has resorts and lodges for all budgets. Book early for the winter season.
How to Reach
- Air: Rajkot (about 160 km) or Diu (about 100 km); Keshod has limited flights.
- Rail: Junagadh or Veraval.
- Sasan is about 45 km from Somnath – perfect to combine.
Sample 4-Day Saurashtra Circuit
Rajkot → Gir (2 safaris) → Somnath (Jyotirlinga and aarti) → Diu (beaches, fort) → return. Add Dwarka for a longer trip – see our Dwarka Somnath pilgrimage guide.
Gir Packages
- Spiritual Gujarat – Jamnagar, Dwarka, Somnath & Gir, 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Sasan Gir Wildlife & Temples Holiday – 4 Nights / 5 Days
- Gir, Somnath & Dwarka Short Pilgrimage – 3 Nights / 4 Days from Rajkot
- Ahmedabad, Dwarka, Somnath & Gir – 4 Nights / 5 Days
- Grand Gujarat Getaway – 8 Nights / 9 Days
See all Gujarat tours.
Related reading: Rann Utsav Kutch guide · Kaziranga safari guide
Official information: Gujarat Tourism.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Gir National Park closed?
From mid-June to mid-October every year.
How do I book a Gir jungle safari?
Online on the official Gir lion safari portal, using ID details for each visitor.
What are the chances of seeing a lion?
High on the jungle trail in winter and summer; near-certain at Devalia.
Is Gir good for children?
Yes – Devalia safari park is especially family-friendly.
Make the journey your own.
Explore itineraries inspired by the places in this guide.
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