Gir National Park in India
Situated about 65km SE of Junagarh district in the state of Gujarat in South West India, the National Park was established on 18th September, 1965, as a Forest Reserve, primarily to conserve the Asiatic lion-classified as one of the World’s most threatened species. Now Gir National Park is the only remaining place in the world, where one is likely to see the Asiatic Lion. The sanctuary covers a total area of 1,412 sq. km of which 258 sq.km at the core forms the National park. Permits are required to enter this part of the sanctuary. Known as the only natural habitat of the Asiatic Lions, Gir National Park’s main attraction is more varied and is not just restricted to Lions only. Located in the Gujarat peninsula of in the South West region of India, Gir will be a delight to visit for every wildlife enthusiast Even if the Kachchh region of Gujarat is swarmed with the desertic climate of the Thar Desert still there are some splendid wildlife reserves situates in the same area, that have become this areas extraordinary feature. The most known name in Gujarat’s wild region is Gir, the last and only habitat of Asiatic Lions.However what is lesser known is that it also has the largest population of panthers, deer and a host of other mammalian species.
Wildlife in Gir National Park
Gir national Park is mainly known for the critically endangered Asiatic Lions. The Asiatic lions of Gir are smaller and more compact than the African Lions. The Asiatic Lions of Gir are best viewed at dawn or dusk when they are on the move. Apart from the famous Asiatic lion, the Gir wildlife sanctuary is home to a number of other animals such as Nilgai, Sambhar, Chinkara, Black Bucks, Wild Boar, four horned Antelope, crocodile, Grey Musk Shrew, Indian Flying Foe, Indian Hare, Small Indian Mongoose, Pale Hedgehog, Small Indian Civet, Indian Pangolin, Ratel, Indian Porcupine, Indian Fox and Jackal. The Jungle Cat, Desert Cat and the Rusty Spotted Cat also inhabit the Gir forest. The Gir forest is also rich in avian fauna and about 300 species are found inhabiting Gir National Park of which the most common is the peafowl.
Entry Requirements
All visitors to Gir are required to obtain entry permits from the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge Office. The permits cost Rs 15 for the first day, and Rs 7.50 for every subsequent day. Extra charges are levied for cameras and for hiring vehicles: a jeep ride will cost about Rs 100 per person, and still camera fees range from Rs 50 (for Indians) to $5 (for foreigners). Guide charges are, respectively, Rs 50 or $10.
Climate
The temperatures at the park vary to extremes, as they do with most of the country too. In winters, the temperatures go down to as low as 6 degrees centigrade, while soaring up to a scorching 46 degrees in the summers. The park is open to visitors from November to May but the best time for visiting the park, taking comfort and wildlife viewing into consideration, is December to March. The park offers many excellent drives through scenic areas.
How to Get there
Air : The nearest airport from Gir is Keshod 90-kms via Veraval. Visitors can easily catch daily flights from Mumbai to Keshod.
Rail : The nearest rail connection is the meter gauge rail line of 395-kms from Ahemdabad.
Road : Gir is situated at a distance of 400-kms from Ahmedabad via Rajkot, Junagadh and Mendarda. State Transport buses are easily available from Junagadh and Veraval to Gir, between November and June.
