Best months
Per-day budget
₹1,300–2,350/day
Getting there
Gir National Park in Gujarat is the only natural home of the Asiatic lion in the wild. The forest covers 1,412 sq km of dry deciduous forest. The lion population has grown from 20 in 1913 to over 670 today. The park also has leopards, hyenas, deer, crocodiles and 300+ bird species. The main activity is the jeep safari to see the lions. The Devalia Interpretation Zone is a fenced area where wildlife viewing is almost guaranteed. It is a great destination for student backpackers looking for an affordable trip. The area is well-connected to major Indian cities by road, rail and air. The destination offers a mix of experiences that cater to all kinds of travellers, from solo backpackers to small groups.
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Why go
The Asiatic lion is the primary attraction — smaller than African lions, with a distinct belly fold. The Devalia Interpretation Zone (fenced 4 sq km enclosure) has the highest lion sighting rate. The jeep safari (2-3 hours) goes into the forest. The Kamleshwar Dam has crocodiles and birdlife.
The Maldhari tribal villages around Gir are traditional cattle-herding communities. The Tulsi Shyam Temple (50 km) is an old temple in the forest. The Junagadh city gate and the Uperkot Fort are nearby. The Somnath Temple is 50 km from Gir.
How to reach
The nearest railway station is Veraval (20 km) or Junagadh (60 km). The nearest airport is Rajkot (140 km). Buses from Ahmedabad (8-9 hours) and Junagadh (1.5 hours) connect. Sasan Gir village is the entry point.
What a day costs
| Budget hotel | ₹600–1,000 |
| Food (thali) | ₹150–250 |
| Jeep safari (per person) | ₹500–1,000 |
| Devalia entry | ₹50–100 |
When to go
October to March is the best season. November-February is pleasant (10-30°C). December-January is the peak season — book safaris in advance. April-June is hot but good for wildlife viewing near waterholes. July-September: park closed for monsoon.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1: Arrive and Devalia
Arrive in Sasan Gir. Visit the Devalia Interpretation Zone for guaranteed wildlife viewing. Visit the crocodile breeding centre. Evening at the Hiran River.
Day 2: Gir Safari
Early morning jeep safari (6-9 AM). Afternoon rest. Visit the Maldhari tribal village. Depart for Somnath or Junagadh.
Student hacks
- ▸The Devalia Interpretation Zone (₹50 entry) has a high lion sighting rate — cheaper than a full safari.
- ▸Visit in the morning safari (6-9 AM) — lions are most active in the morning.
- ▸Share the jeep with other travellers — per person cost ₹500-1,000 instead of ₹3,000 for a private jeep.
- ▸Stay in Sasan Gir village — budget hotels from ₹600.
- ▸Book the safari online at least a week in advance during peak season (December-February).
- ▸The crocodile breeding centre is free or very cheap — see 300+ mugger crocodiles.
Safety & permits
Entry permit needed for the safari (booked through the forest department website). The Devalia Zone is easier to enter (no advance booking). The park is safe inside the vehicle. No walking allowed inside the forest. ATMs at Sasan Gir.
FAQs
How do I reach Gir from Delhi?
Flight to Rajkot (2 hours) then bus to Sasan Gir (3-4 hours).
What is Gir National Park known for?
The only natural habitat of the Asiatic lion.
How many days do I need?
2 days — one for Devalia, one for the main safari.