Gir National Park Safari: Booking Your Wildlife Experience

Introduction

Gir National Park, located in the state of Gujarat, India, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and home to the majestic Asiatic lions.

Spread across an expansive area of approximately 1412 square kilometres, Gir National Park Booking is not only a sanctuary for the rare and endangered Asiatic lions but also boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

With its lush forests, rugged hills, and thriving ecosystems, Gir National Park offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

In this article, we will delve into the details of booking safaris in Gir National Park, providing valuable information about the various types of safaris, booking procedures, the best time to visit, and essential tips for a successful safari experience.

Join us as we embark on an exciting journey to explore the wonders of Gir National Park and make the most of your safari booking.

Location and Background

Situated in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, Gir National Park is nestled between the rugged terrain of the Saurashtra region.

It was established in 1965, primarily to protect the endangered Asiatic lion species. Since then, it has become a vital conservation area, promoting the preservation of other wildlife as well.

Biodiversity and Wildlife of Gir National Park

Gir National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, hosting a wide array of flora and fauna.

Apart from the iconic Asiatic lions, you can spot various other mammals such as leopards, hyenas, deer, jackals, and more.

The park is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 300 species of avian wonders, including the vibrant Indian peafowl and the elusive Indian vulture.

Overview of the Safari Booking Process

Embarking on a safari in Gir National Park is not only thrilling but also a great way to get up close and personal with the captivating wildlife.

Let's take a quick look at the different types of safaris offered and the multiple channels through which you can make your booking.

Types of Safaris Offered

Gir National Park offers three exciting safari options to cater to all adventure-seekers.

The Jeep Safari allows you to explore the park's depths comfortably, while the Canter Safari offers a larger group experience.

For those who prefer a more intimate encounter with nature, the Walking Safari provides an unforgettable trekking experience.

Booking Channels and Options

Booking your safari in Gir National Park is a breeze, thanks to the various channels available.

You can opt for online booking, which allows you to secure your spot conveniently from the comfort of your own home.

If you prefer a more traditional approach, offline booking is also possible through authorized travel agents or in person at the park's booking office.

Types of Safaris Available in Gir National Park

Now that we know the options, let's dive into each safari type offered by Gir National Park and what makes them unique.

Gir Jungle Safari (3 Hrs)

Gir Jungle Trail is the forest department-organized open Jeep Safari ride of approximately 3 hours inside the dense forest of Gir National Park. One may get a chance to see Asiatic Lion, leopards, and many other wild animals, birds & rich flora and fauna of Gir forest.

Gir Jungle Trail Package Rate & persons allowed in one vehicle:

INR 4500/- to 4800/- for Indians (Per Jeep)
INR 12,000 to 15,000/- for Foreigners (Per Jeep)

One Jeep can accommodate a maximum of 6 adults and 1 child. Age till 12 years considered as child and more than 12 years considered as adult for safari booking. If the number of adults is less then more children can be added up to 7. Since the rates are per Jeep and not per person, rates will be the same for 1 person and for 6 persons boarding the safari.

What is Included in this Package?

Permit issued by Forest department to enter into the Gir Jungle Trail
Open Gypsy vehicle (old model), Driver & Guide approved by Forest Department
Payment processing charges & GST
Safari coordinator service charge who will assist you while Boarding.

What is Not Included?

Camera fees, if any. (There is no charge for Mobile Phones)
Pick-up / Drop from Resort / Hotel. It can be arranged at an extra charge.
Gipsy vehicles are subject to availability at the time of boarding. If Gypsy vehicles are not available, the new Bolero vehicle will be allocated compulsorily and the guest has to pay INR 1500/- extra to the driver.

Reporting Place & Time: The boarding / Reporting point for the safari is “Sinh Sadan, Sasan Gir”. Visitors need to report at least 30 minutes before the scheduled Safari time. There is ample parking facility for visitors to park their vehicles and board Jeep.

Safari Timings and Availability of Permits: There are 3 Safari timings as mentioned below The forest department issues limited permits for each time slot. 100% of Permits are available for advance booking, on-the-spot booking is not available.

Gir Jungle Trail remains closed from 16th June to 15th Oct every year. However, you can enjoy Devaliya Jeep Safari throughout the year.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Before 10 Days: 75% Refund
Cancellation Before 05 Days: 50% Refund
Cancellation Before 02 Days: 25% Refund
Cancellation Less than 02 Days: 0% Refund

Note: Days are calculated excluding the Safari Boarding day & Cancellation request day. Cancellation requests received after 6 p.m. will be considered on the next working day. The cancellation policy mentioned above is subject to change.

It is mandatory to provide ID proof details of all members while booking. ID proofs submitted while Safari Booking will be verified with the original ID proofs at safari boarding time. Boarding will not be possible if found any discrepancy and any refund will not be processed in this case. No ID proofs are accepted other than those mentioned in the Booking Form.

Once the safari is booked, any kind of modification is strictly NOT possible, like Change in the ID proof number, name of the person including spelling mistakes, addition or deletion of person, change in safari date or time slot, etc.

There are 13 routes for this jeep safari. Any of the routes is allocated to each jeep randomly. The possibility of lion sighting is equal in each route and it is purely on your luck. One can get a chance to see lots of wildlife animals including lions & Leopards.

We will refund the full amount within 2 working days in case of unavailability of the requested jeep safari.

The forest department reserves the right to cancel the permit or slightly modify the timing in unavoidable circumstances. The decision of the forest department will be final in such cases.

Devaliya Jungle Safari

WE GUARANTEE LION SIGHTSEEING IN DEVALIYA JEEP SAFARI

Devaliya Jeep Safari is the forest department-organized Safari ride in a covered Jeep of approximately One hour inside the Devaliya Safari Park (also known as Gir Interpretation Zone). Sightseeing of Asiatic Lion, Leopard & Many other wild animals is Guaranteed here.

Package Rate & persons allowed in one jeep:

INR 4200/- to 4600/- for Indians (Per Jeep)
INR 10,000 to 12,000/- for Foreigners (Per Jeep)

One Jeep can accommodate a maximum of 6 adults and 1 child. Age till 12 years considered as child and more than 12 years considered as adult for safari booking. If the number of adults is less then more children can be added up 7Since the rates are per Jeep and not per person, rates will be the same for 1 person and for 6 persons boarding the safari.

What is Included in this Package?

Permit issued by Forest department to enter into the Gir Jungle Trail
Caged Gypsy vehicle (old model), Driver & Guide approved by Forest Department
Payment processing charges & GST
Safari coordinator service charge who will assist you while Boarding.

What is Not Included?

Camera fees, if any. (There is no charge for Mobile Phones)
Pick-up / Drop from Resort / Hotel. It can be arranged at an extra charge.
Gipsy vehicles are subject to availability at the time of boarding. If Gypsy vehicles are not available, a new Bolero vehicle will be allotted compulsorily and the guest has to pay INR 1500/- extra to the driver.

The boarding / Reporting point for the safari is “Sinh Sadan, Sasan Gir”. Visitors need to report at least 30 minutes before the scheduled Safari time. There is ample parking facility for visitors to park their vehicles and board Jeep.

Safari Timings and Availability of Permits: There are 7 Safari timings as mentioned below The forest department issues 10 Permits for each time slot. All Permits are available for advance booking and issued first come first serve basis.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellation Before 10 Days: 75% Refund
Cancellation Before 05 Days: 50% Refund
Cancellation Before 02 Days: 25% Refund
Cancellation Less than 02 Days: 0% Refund

Once the safari is booked, any kind of modification is strictly NOT possible, like Change in the ID proof number, name of person including spelling mistakes, addition or deletion of person, change in safari date or time slot, etc.

The forest department reserves the right to cancel the permit or slightly modify the timing in unavoidable circumstances. The decision of the forest department will be final in such cases.

What is Devaliya Safari Park / Gir Interpretation Zone?

To reduce the disturbance from tourism in the main sanctuary area, and to facilitate tourists to understand the importance of Gir and its wildlife, an interpretation zone has been created at Devalia.

This comprises 412 ha of chain-link fenced area which is ‘Gir in a nutshell’, covering all habitat types and all major representatives of the wildlife of Gir.

The basic aim of creating this facility is to provide an opportunity to view lions and other animals in their natural habitat within a short period and reduce tourist pressure on the sanctuary.

The area has a good quantity of prey based in the form of Spotted Deer, Blue Bulls, Wild Boars, Blackbucks, Sambars and Chinkaras.

Spotting a Lion in its savanna habitat is a treat to the eyes of wildlife. A good variety of grassland, as well as forest avifauna, is also spotted in the area. 20-30 Indian Vultures are regular visitors here.

Booking Procedures and Regulations

Before embarking on your exhilarating safari in Gir National Park, it's crucial to understand the booking procedures and regulations in place for the safety of both visitors and wildlife.

Online Booking Process

To book your safari online, visit the official website of Gir National Park or authorized travel websites that offer booking services. Follow the simple instructions, select your preferred safari type and timing, make the payment, and voilà! You're all set for an adventure of a lifetime.

Offline Booking Process

If you prefer the traditional route, you can opt for offline booking through authorized travel agents or directly at the booking office in Gir National Park. The friendly staff will guide you through the process and help you secure your desired safari slot.

Booking Fees and Permits

Booking fees vary depending on the type of safari and whether you're a domestic or foreign visitor. It's essential to check the current rates and carry valid identification proofs for permit purposes. Remember, the fees paid contribute to the park's conservation efforts, ensuring the protection of its magnificent inhabitants.

Rules and Regulations for Safari Visitors

To ensure a safe and responsible safari experience, Gir National Park has defined rules and regulations that visitors must adhere to.

These include maintaining silence during the safari, not feeding or teasing the animals, and strictly following the instructions of the guides. Respecting the wildlife and their natural habitat is key to preserving this unique ecosystem.

Now that you're armed with all the information, go ahead and book your Gir National Park safari.

Get ready for an unforgettable journey into the realm of untamed wilderness where nature's wonders await you!

Best Time to Visit and Availability of Safari Slots

Seasonal Patterns and Weather Conditions

When it comes to planning your Gir National Park safari, timing is everything. Gir National Park experiences three main seasons - summer, monsoon, and winter.

Summer, from March to May, can get scorching hot with temperatures reaching unbearable levels. Monsoon, from June to October, brings heavy rainfall, making it difficult to explore the park.

Winter, from November to February, is the best time to visit as the weather is pleasant with cool temperatures.

Peak and Off-Peak Seasons

If you want to avoid the crowds and have a more intimate wildlife experience, it's best to visit Gir National Park during the off-peak season.

The park sees a surge in visitors during the peak season, which is typically from December to March. However, keep in mind that during the peak season, the park might witness a higher demand for safari slots.

Availability of Safari Slots

Securing a safari slot at Gir National Park can feel like winning the lottery, especially during the peak season.

It's essential to book your safari well in advance to avoid disappointment. Gir National Park offers both online and offline booking options. Online booking opens 60 days in advance and is highly recommended for a hassle-free experience. However, if you prefer the traditional way, offline bookings are also available at the Sinh Sadan Reception Center in Sasan Gir.

Tips for a Successful Gir National Park Safari Experience

Planning Ahead

To make the most of your Gir National Park safari, planning ahead is key. Research the park, understand its rules and regulations, and decide on the duration of your visit. It's also crucial to familiarize yourself with the safari timings and identify the type of safari experience you desire.

Choosing the Right Safari Option

Gir National Park offers various safari options, including jeep safari and bus safari. While both offer fantastic wildlife sightings, a jeep safari provides a more intimate and personalized experience. Consider your preferences, budget, and group size when selecting the safari option that suits you best.

Essential Gear and Clothing

When packing for your Gir National Park safari, remember to pack light but include essential items.

Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a pair of binoculars are some must-haves. Don't forget to carry water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized during the safari.

Etiquette and Wildlife Safety

Respecting the wildlife and following the park's guidelines is crucial for both your safety and the animals' well-being. Maintain a safe distance from the animals, avoid making loud noises, and never attempt to feed or touch them. Always listen to your safari guide's instructions and enjoy the wildlife from a respectful distance.

Conservation Efforts and Wildlife Protection in Gir National Park

Role of Gir National Park in Lion Conservation

Gir National Park holds tremendous significance in the conservation of the Asiatic lion.

It is the only place in the world where these majestic creatures roam freely. The park's dedicated efforts have led to a steady increase in the lion population, showcasing the importance of protected areas for wildlife conservation.

Community Involvement and Conservation Initiatives

Conservation efforts in Gir National Park extend beyond its boundaries. The park actively involves nearby communities in conservation initiatives, promoting awareness and sustainable livelihoods.

This community-based approach aims to create a harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, ensuring the long-term preservation of the ecosystem.

Conclusion.

Booking a safari in Gir National Park allows you to witness the stunning beauty of the Asiatic lions in their natural habitat and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the park.

By following the outlined procedures and regulations, planning ahead, and adhering to wildlife safety measures, you can ensure a memorable and responsible safari experience.

Whether you choose a jeep safari, canter safari, or walking safari, Gir National Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to the conservation efforts of this extraordinary ecosystem.

So, pack your bags, book your safari, and get ready to create lifelong memories in the captivating wilderness of Gir National Park.