Gir National Park in Gujarat is the sole national park that offers a view of the Asiatic lion kings of the forests among the kings of the forests in their natural element. Other biodiversity constituting this national park as a haven for wildlife lovers includes leopards, deer, and over 300 species of birds. However, to fully enjoy your trip, it is important to ensure a hassle-free booking process of the Gir National Park Safari. It gives tips and tricks in this blog on how to make your safari booking smooth, guides you through the best time to visit, and how one can get there.
Spread over 1,400 square kilometers, Gir National Park offers a firsthand experience of the wild. The park houses more than 500 Asiatic lions apart from leopards, sambar deer, chital, and a lot of varieties of birds. The varied landscape of houses, forests, hills, and rivers bolsters your experience of safari and gives you a feel of the natural beauty of Gir.
A safari booking inside Gir National Park promises an encounter with these great animals. You get to do a jeep safari inside the park for an intimate wild exposure or take a bus safari, which is cheaper but less personal.
It is very important to book your safari in advance, especially in the peak season starting from October to March of every year. Following are some tips that will smoothly help you in Gir National Park Safari Booking:
Safari Type: One could book either a Jeep safari or a bus safari. It is very sought after, as one can get close to the wildlife and has a more personal encounter. A bus safari, on the other hand, is conducted in larger groups and much cheaper.
Online Bookings: Online booking is the easiest way of booking your safari for Gir National Park Safaris. The time slot availability, choosing, and online payment can be made from the official website of the Gujarat Forest Department. This has got to be the most convenient way since you can book your place well in advance.
Choose A Time Slot: Safaris are available very early morning from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, and in the afternoon between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM. The early morning slots really are best for wildlife viewing since animals are much more active during cooler hours. However, afternoon slots will also show excellent viewing opportunities.
Fill Up Your Details: You need to provide your name, age, valid ID proof. Make sure the details you submit match the documents you will be carrying on the day of the visit.
Pay the Fee: Once your information is filled out, proceed to make the payment. Right after paying, one obtains a confirmation that must be saved for proof at the park.
The best time to visit Gir National Park is from December to March, since it has an ideal climate, thus allowing the spotting of natural life as it becomes easier. The cool and dry season provides the best opportunity to view the lions and other animals as they can be more openly seen.
While April and May are hot, they are very good months for seeing wildlife because all animals congregate around the water sources. However, be prepared if you happen to visit during these months. During the monsoon season, from June up to mid-October, the park is closed and hence not accessible.
Gir National Park is well-linked for air, train as well as road transportation, How to Reach Gir National Park:
By Air: The Nearest Airport is Diu Airport, which is situated about 110 km away from the Park. You can also reach Rajkot Airport at 160 km or Ahmedabad Airport at 360 km and hire a taxi to reach Gir.
By Train: The closest railway station is Veraval, which lies 42 kilometers away from the Park. Another railway station is Junagadh, which is 65 km away. Both these railway stations are well-connected to most of the major cities like Ahmedabad and Rajkot.
By Road: The roads of Gir National Park are well connected. You can reach this region in a car or board the bus run by the State from the nearby cities. You will find, the roads have good conditions and your journey remains comfortable.
Book in advance: The booking of Gir National Park should be completed well in advance, especially during the high season. There is a basic cap on the number of visitors visiting each day at this park, and tickets are generally sold out in due time.
Park Guidelines: Respect the rules of the park and follow instructions from your guide. Keep silent during the safari, avoid sudden movements, and never, ever feed or disturb wildlife.
Wear comfortable clothes: neutral-colored, lightweight clothing is best for safaris. Avoid bright colors as this may disturb the animals. Don't forget to take along a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun.
Carry Essentials: Though the length of the safari is almost two to three hours, it's better to carry water, snacks, and most importantly, a camera. If you are a birdwatcher, bring along your binoculars for an advance look at the various species of birds in the park.
Arrive Early: Come at least 30 minutes prior to your safari booking to complete the formalities and not make it a last-minute hassle.
Take multiple safaris: If time allows, book more than one safari at different timings and zones. This will increase the visibility chances of Asiatic lions with other wildlife, as in some particular time or place there can be no view.
No other wildlife sanctuary offers the chance to spot Asiatic lions in their natural habitat, making Gir National Park incomparable. Its commitment to protection makes the park an example of success stories as far as the protection of jumbo and endangered species is concerned, and thus it attracts tours of animal lovers from around the world. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari-goer, Gir offers an unforgettable experience.
With just a little preparation and keeping the above-mentioned tips in mind, your safari booking and visit to Gir National Park will go smoothly, leaving you with all attention to the beauty and excitement of the adventure ahead.
The Gir National Park is one of India's most visited wildlife spots due to the plainly visible sighting of extremely rare Asiatic lions. Whether it is to get a better sighting of the star Simulator or braving the summer heat so one may glance at this majestic creature, it all proves quite worthwhile. Planning in advance for your safari in Gir National Park will coupled with these tips ensure that you have an unforgettable moment spent in the wild.
Md. Asad
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Anny Sharma
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