About Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary at Sasan Gir, Gujarat, is the sole natural habitat of the Asiatic lion in the wild. Spread over about 1,412 sq km across Gir Somnath, Junagadh and Amreli districts, it comprises dry deciduous forests, scrub, grasslands and water bodies. Established in 1965, the protected area supports lions, leopards, deer, antelopes and over 300 bird species and is managed by the Gujarat Forest Department.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore dry deciduous forest and scrub landscape on guided open-jeep safaris along designated forest routes. The main attraction is sighting Asiatic lions, along with leopards, spotted deer, sambar, nilgai, wild boar and diverse birds. Safaris operate in morning and afternoon slots from Sasan Gir, with interpretation at the visitor centre, views of Kamleshwar Dam and surrounding forest, and opportunities for photography and birdwatching.
Key highlights
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Only wild population of Asiatic lions in the world
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Guided jeep safaris through dry deciduous forest and grasslands
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Diverse wildlife including leopard, sambar, chital, nilgai and wild boar
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Over 300 bird species including crested serpent eagle and paradise flycatcher
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Kamleshwar Dam - large water body inside the sanctuary with crocodiles and birdlife
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Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone) for assured lion sighting in enclosed area
History of Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
The Gir forest was a hunting reserve of the Nawab of Junagadh who gave protection to lions in the early 20th century. After severe decline, the Government of Gujarat declared the area as Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in 1965 and the core 258 sq km as Gir National Park in 1975. Conservation efforts by the Gujarat Forest Department have revived the Asiatic lion population from fewer than 20 in the early 1900s to over 600 today.
Culture & Context
The forest is home to Maldhari pastoral communities who live in traditional hamlets (nesses) and rear livestock within the sanctuary periphery. The area also contains revered forest temples such as Kankai and Tulsi Shyam, visited by pilgrims and reflecting the coexistence of local communities with the protected landscape.