Gir National Park Revealed: Untamed Beauty and Majestic Beasts

Location

India is a land of rich biodiversity, and one of its most iconic national parks is Gir National Park, located in the state of Gujarat. This park is famous for being the last refuge of the critically endangered Asiatic lion, making it a unique and important conservation area.

But Gir National Park is not just about lions, it is also home to a wide array of other wildlife species, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage. Let’s dive into the wild kingdom of Gir National Park and explore its wonders!

History and Conservation

Gir National Park was established in 1965 and covers an area of about 1,412 square kilometres in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat.

The park was created with the primary objective of conserving the dwindling population of Asiatic lions, which were once found in many parts of India but faced severe population declines due to hunting and habitat loss. Today, Gir National Park is the last remaining abode of the Asiatic lion, and its conservation success story is commendable.

Efforts to conserve the Asiatic lions in Gir National Park have been ongoing for many years, and the population has gradually increased over time. As of 2020, the lion population in Gir National Park was estimated to be around 674 individuals, a significant increase from the mere 20 lions that were left in the early 20th century.

Strict protection measures, community involvement in conservation, and habitat management have been crucial in the success of lion conservation in Gir National Park.

Wildlife at Gir National Park Asiatic Lion:

The Asiatic lion is the star attraction of Gir National Park. These majestic big cats are slightly smaller than their African counterparts but are equally impressive. Observing the lions in their natural habitat is an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Visitors can spot them roaming in the grasslands, resting under the shade of trees, or even climbing on rocky outcrops. Watching a lion in its natural habitat is a thrilling and awe-inspiring sight that leaves visitors with lasting memories.

Flora and Landscapes

Dry deciduous forests, thorny scrublands, and grasslands, with interspersed rocky plateaus and rivers, characterize Gir National Park. The park’s vegetation is adapted to the dry and arid climate of the region. Teak, flame of the forest, acacia, jamun, and dhak are some of the dominant tree species found in the park. The park’s landscapes are picturesque, with rugged hills, deep valleys, and rocky outcrops adding to its scenic beauty.

Gir National Park is a birding enthusiast’s delight. The park is home to a diverse range of resident and migratory bird species, making it a birder’s paradise. Birdwatching paths and hides are built up around the park, giving visitors plenty of chances to view and photograph these wonderful species in their natural habitat.

Gir National Park also provides a unique opportunity for individuals interested in culture and heritage to contact with the Maldhari population, who are traditional cattle herders who live in the park’s buffer zones. Visitors may learn about their way of life, customs, and their symbiotic interaction with the animals in the park.

Communities

The Maldharis play a crucial role in the conservation of Gir National Park, and interacting with them provides insights into the local cultural heritage and conservation practices.

Conservation and Responsible Tourism Conservation is the cornerstone of National Park, and responsible tourism plays a significant role in supporting the park’s conservation efforts. The park’s administration and local residents cooperate to conserve the park’s sensitive habitat and animals.

The park maintains tight norms and regulations for wildlife tourism, and visitors must follow these criteria in order to minimise damage to the species and their environment.

When visiting Gir , it is important to practise responsible tourism. Some of the essential rules include keeping a safe distance from wildlife, not littering, not making loud noises, and adhering to the park’s approved pathways and itineraries. It is also critical to respect the Maldhari community’s local culture and traditions, as well as to avoid disturbing their animals.

Other Wildlife:

Gir is not just for only lions. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife species. Some of the commonly spotted animals include leopards, striped hyenas, Indian deer species like spotted deer, sambar deer, and chital, Indian antelope or nilgai, wild boars, langurs, and several species of reptiles and birds.

The park also has a significant population of marsh crocodiles in its rivers and reservoirs.

Bird Diversity:

Gir National area is a birdwatcher’s delight, with over 300 bird species present in the area. The park is home to a wide range of resident and migratory birds, including vultures, eagles, owls, parrots, and peafowls.

The park’s diversified landscapes, which include grasslands, dry deciduous woods, and rivers, provide great habitat for a vast range of bird species, making it a birder’s paradise.

Fees and Charges

Normal days cost Rs. 100, whereas festival days (Saturday/Sunday) cost Rs. 125. If you are not a resident of India and are from another country, the admission cost for up to 6 people on common days is Rs. 5600 – 7000.

Cost for Single Person

Gir Jungle Trail Package Price & Number of People Permitted in One Jeep:

For Indians, the price ranges from INR 4500/- to INR 4800/- (per Jeep). Foreigners: INR 12,000 to 15,000/- (per Jeep)

Best Time to Visit

Winter is the greatest season to explore Gir National Park, which is open from December through March. Throughout this period, the weather in Gir is cool and pleasant. Gir National Park’s protected area is closed every year between 16 June and 15 October.

The forest is open and closed in the morning from 6.45 a.m. to 9.45 a.m., as well as from 8.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. In the evening, the woodland is open from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. The forest is open Monday through Sunday.

Peoples general Queries.

How to Reach Gir National Park?

Gir National Park is well connected by air, rail, and road networks. The nearest airport is Rajkot Airport, which is about 160 kilometres away from the park. The nearest railway stations are Veraval and Junagadh, which are well connected to major cities in India. Gir National Park is also accessible by road from major cities in Gujarat and neighbouring states.

Can we bring our own vehicle into Gir National Park?

Is it possible to drive a private vehicle in Gir National Park? Private cars that operate on petrol are permitted inside the Gir National Park. However, you must bring a driver and a guide.

What is the cost of a Gir safari per person?

Gir Jungle Trail Package Price & Number of People Permitted in One Jeep:

For Indians, the price ranges from INR 4500/- to INR 4800/- (per Jeep). Foreigners: INR 12,000 to 15,000/- (per Jeep)

Which is the best time to go on Gir jungle safari?

Each day, three safari expeditions depart from Gir, beginning at 6.30 a.m., 9.30 a.m., and 3.30 p.m. During the summer, the times are usually 30 minutes earlier. Whereas the 6.30 AM travel is the finest, the difference is minor throughout the winter.

What is the cost of entrance to Gir National Park?

The entry cost is Rs 75 for Indian tourists and Rs 100 for overseas visitors. The safari vehicle price is Rs 35, the photography fee is Rs 100, and the guiding service fee is Rs 50 for four hours. When purchasing Gir tickets and safaris online, extra payment gateway fees must be paid.

How many lions are present in the Gir?

There are roughly 600 Asiatic lions left in Western India’s Gir Forest, their sole surviving natural home. This little group lives in a sliver of a forest, where a disease outbreak or forest fire may wipe them out forever.