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| Asiatic Lion |
Gir National Park situated in India state Gujarat is the only natural habitat on earth to watch Asiatic lion. Moreover, Gir forest is the only place where lions are found in the wild apart from Africa. It is best place for wildlife tourism as it jungles evokes the thrill among wildlife enthusiasts.
These special features allure thousands of travelers every year and make Gir the top destination in India.
Gir National Park is situated in Junagarh district of Gujarat. This wildlife sanctuary was notified in the year of 1975 in order to protect Asiatic Lion. Initially, this was forest region was the favorite hunting ground for the Nawab of Junagarh. It is also known as Sasan Gir forest. The jungles of Gir is deciduous kind of forest which provides shelter to wildlife species such as wild boar, nilgai, sambar, four-horned antelope, chinkara deer, striped hyena, langur, hedgehog, hare and black buck, apart from lion. Mugger crocodiles and various reptiles are found in the sanctuary.
Gir is also Heaven for birdwatchers. The reservoir of kamleshwar Dam is particularly known for it. Migratory birds such as flamingo and pelican come here during winter season. Moreover, this reservoir is known for having the presence of the largest population of crocodiles in India. In the recent census conducted approximately 350 crocodiles were noted.
Another major attraction of Gir is the sight of local villages situated around the wildlife sanctuary where people of African origin live. Region like Talala, there is a proper settlements and streets where only African origin people reside. If you are visiting this place you may feel like reached somewhere in the remote village of African continent. According to historical records, these African tribal were brought as slaves during Mughal period from Africa.
It’s time to visit: Gir National Park remains closed to wildlife travelers from mid-June to mid-October during the monsoon season. It open to visitors by Diwali and thousands of travelers arrive during the festival time.
Rivers such as Hiran and Godavari and other seven rivers, either flow through the Gir National Park or originates from here. Its greenery would be worth seeing during monsoon season but turns dry when summer season knocks. The barren forest changes into grey appearance during the hot season; however it is an ideal time to see lions in the Gir forest.
How to reach Gir National Park: The distance between Ahmadabad and Gir is approximately 350 kilometer and traveler making it centre point to visit the Somnath temple and Diu. It is great triangle combination – Gir is a wildlife destination, Somnath is a pilgrimage destinanation while Diu is a beachside destination. Accommodation option in the form of hotels and resorts are available in numerous budget ranges at all these places. On the outskirts of Gir National Park many wildlife resorts are situated which can make your trip memorable.
Yet another interesting point is nearly 12 kilometer railway track passes through Gir forest. It is the Junagadh-Veraval meter gauge line.
How to explore the true wilderness of the Gir National Park: Jeep Safari is the only feasible option to explore and see lions resting in their natural habitat. Jeep safari in Gir is conducted in two shifts – Morning as well as in evening. The safari timing and routes are managed by the Gir state forest and environment officials. The safari is available from 06:30 AM and covers specific routes inside the forest.