Preface
Created to protect the last wild population of Lion
outside the African regions, Gir National Park is
situated in the southwest of the peninsular state of
Gujarat. Spread over an area of 116 square-miles, the
Gir sanctuary has been home to lions since 1913 when
the Lion population over here fell drastically to just
20 animals. Due to conservation efforts by the
government, the the number has now increased to around
300.
Asiatic Lion
The
Asiatic lion is slightly smaller than its African
cousin is and its mane is also smaller. In India the
lion population is spread across the states of
Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and
Madhya Pradesh. But Gir is not just about Lions, the
second most commonly found predator in the Gir is
Leopard. Infact, Gir National Park is also home to one
of the largest Leopard populations in any park in
India, and especially in the hotter season they can
sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges.
Vegetation in Gir
National Park
Among the main vegetation of the national park are the
teak, Acacia and Banyan trees. Being a mixed deciduous
forest, the main species of trees found here include
Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus and
Amli. These trees are mostly broad leaved and
evergreen, giving the area a cool shade and the
moisture content.
Wild Population
Other animal residents of the Gir national park are
Sambar Deer, Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope,
Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope, Chinkara Gazelle,
Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and
numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli's
Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo
etc.
Enjoy The Jeep
safari
Jeep Safari: The best way to observe the big
cats is, of course, in their natural surroundings, at
dawn and dusk, when they are on the prowl. Wildlife
viewing in the Gir's is best done, by driving via jeep
around the forest.
Prime Attractions
In India the Lion population is spread across the
states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar
Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. But Gir is not just about
Lions, the second most commonly found predator in the
Gir is Leopard. Infact, Gir National Park is also home
to one of the largest Leopard populations in any park
in India, and especially in the hotter season they can
sometimes be seen at night close to the lodges.
Ideal Time to Visit
Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
Wildlife enthusiasts can visit Gir Park throughout the
year, but the best period to visit the Gir Sanctuary
is between the months of November and June.