Tourist Attraction in Gir

The Sasangir National Park and Lion Sanctuary in the Kathiwad peninsula of Gujarat has the distinction of being the last earthly refuge of the majestic Asiatic lion (Panthera leo). It is home of some 300 lions of this close to being extinct Asiatic species. The Park is a popular tourist destination, with some sixty thousand wide-eyed tourists visiting the Park in the hope of catching a glimpse of the proud and rare lion in 1999-2000. Apart from the Asiatic Lions, the park is also home to large number of chitals, chinkara, leopard, wild ass and many other animals.

The Asiatic lion once ranged from Asia Minor and Arabia through Persia to India. Till the advent of the British, it roamed throughout the northern and central states of India, from Sindh to Bengal and southward to the Narmada basin. But hunters were hot on its trail and the lion was hunted mercilessly. In 1884, the species was finally wiped out from everywhere save the Gir forest.

Jeep safaris and wild life photography expeditions are the favorites tourist activities here. Several machans (watchtowers) and hides have been raised near waterholes to allow visitors a closer look of the lions. One can also visit other places in the vicinity like Junagadh and Somnath famous for their history and religious importance.

Tourist Attractions in Sasangir

Gir offers a large number of activities and attractions within the premises of the reserve.

» The Asiatic Lion
Sasangir is the only place in the world outside the African continent where the lion can be seen in its natural habitat. It alone draws hordes of visitors to the park each year. Much of the Asiatic Lion’s time is spent snoozing where the shade is deepest, while the lionesses do the stalking, hunting and cub raising. But, when a kill is made, he is the first to come and claim his share.

The best time to observe lions in their natural surroundings is at dawn and dusk, when they are on the prowl. Though the Asiatic lion is an elusive creature, a morning safari awards a good chance of seeing it, in contrast to a hot afternoon safari.

» Jeep Safaris
Jeep Safaris are very popular with tourists who are enchanted with the idea of a ride in the wilds! However one needs a permit, which is issued on the spot at the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge office before setting off on the jungle trail.

» Other Animals
The Gir forest is also home to a large number of other fascinating species like the leopard, chital, chinkara (gazelle), wild boar, wild ass, nilgai, spotted deer, and four-horned antelope. It is also a good place to watch monkeys, parrots, and India’s national bird, the peacock. A crocodile-rearing and research centre also flourishes adjacent to Sinh Sadan Lodge, where hatchlings are reared and then released into their natural habitat.

» Other Attractions
Gir forest area also includes the Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary, where birds like paradise flycatcher, back-headed cuckoo, pied woodpecker, various species of eagles, painted sand grouse, bush quail, flamingo, partridge, parrot, and peacock may be seen. The park also has a small temple dedicated to Lord Krishna near the Tulsi Shyam springs.