Gir, Last Refuge of the Asiatic Lion

The only place on earth outside Africa where you can see wild lions

EXPLORING GIR
  • Safari Status🟢 Open Now
  • Morning Winter Safari6:30 AM
  • Morning Summer Safari6:00 AM
  • Afternoon SafariWinter : 3 PM , Summer : 4 PM
  • Closed16th Jun to 15th Oct
  • Best TimeNov - Mar

Home -> Gir National Park

🦁 About Gir National Park

Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat is the last remaining home of the Asiatic lion — a subspecies once found across West Asia and India, now surviving only in this protected forest. The park covers 1,412 square kilometres of dry deciduous forest.

The Asiatic lion population has grown from just 20 individuals in 1913 to over 700 today — one of the greatest wildlife conservation successes in Asia. The lions here are slightly smaller than African lions and tend to live in smaller prides.

Beyond lions, Gir is home to leopards, hyenas, jackals, crocodiles, sambar deer, nilgai, and over 300 species of birds. The morning safari at 6 AM through the core zone gives you the best chance of wildlife sightings.

🎫 Safari Information

How to Book
Book online at girlion.in — permits are required and cannot be obtained at the gate. Book 2–4 weeks ahead in peak season (Nov–Feb).
Safari Timings
Two safari slots daily — 6:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Each safari lasts approximately 3 hours in a 6-seater jeep.
Safari Season
October 16 to June 15. The park is closed from June 16 to October 15 during the monsoon season.
What to Wear
Muted colours only — khaki, green, grey, brown. Avoid white, red, orange or any bright colours. Closed shoes essential.
Devalia Safari Park
An enclosed zone within the park — guaranteed Asiatic lion sightings in 1.5 hours. Great for families. Shared jeep, ticketed entry.

📍 What You'll See

Asiatic Lion
700+ lions in the wild — smaller than African lions, with a distinctive belly fold. Usually spotted resting near waterholes.
Leopard
Elusive but present — more likely spotted at dawn or dusk in tree branches near the forest edge.
Mugger Crocodile
Large populations around the Hiran river. The Crocodile Breeding Centre near Sasan Gir is worth a visit.
300+ Bird Species
Crested Serpent Eagle, Paradise Flycatcher, Indian Pitta and many more — a birder’s paradise

💡 Safari Tips

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Book Well in Advance
Peak season (Nov–Feb) permits sell out weeks ahead. Book as early as possible at girlion.in.
🎒
What to Bring
Water, binoculars, camera (allowed on safari), light jacket for winter mornings, sunscreen for summer.
🌅
Morning vs Afternoon
Morning safaris are better for lion sightings. Afternoon safaris offer beautiful golden light for photography.
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Where to Stay
Forest Rest House (budget), Gir Jungle Lodge (mid), Gir Serai or Amidhara Resort (premium).
Book the morning safari (6 AM) — lions are most active in the early hours and tend to be near waterholes. Stay absolutely quiet in the vehicle and follow your guide’s instructions. The forest rewards patience.