Gir National Park at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Gujarat |
| Famous For | Asiatic Lions, Wildlife Safari |
| Best Time to Visit | December to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Gujarati, Hindi, English |
| Nearest Airport | Rajkot Airport (RAJ), 160km from Gir |
| Nearest Railway | Junagadh Junction (JND) |
| From Rajkot | 160 km · 3h 30m |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹800+ (varies) |
| Best For | nature and adventure seekers |
Gir National Park: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, is the last refuge of the Asiatic lion. Established in 1965, it's a crucial conservation area protecting this endangered species and its unique dry deciduous forest habitat.
Gir offers the unparalleled opportunity to see Asiatic lions in the wild. However, safaris can be expensive and crowded, and sightings aren't guaranteed. The park's remoteness also requires significant travel time.
Gir National Park: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kankai Mata Temple | 06:00-18:00 | Free | Anytime during the day | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Gir National Park: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
directions_car Driving to Gir National Park: Road Routes & Highways
train Train to Gir National Park: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Junagadh Junction (JND) — Main railway station; well-connected to major cities.
- From Delhi: 20-24 hours (₹1500-4000)
- From Mumbai: 10-12 hours (₹800-2500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Gir National Park: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Rajkot Airport (RAJ), 160km from Gir
- Delhi: 2-3 hours (₹4000-8000)
- Mumbai: 1-1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2500-3500
- Private Car: ₹2000-3000
directions_bus Bus to Gir National Park: Services & Timings
- From Rajkot: 4-5 hours (₹300-500)
- From Ahmedabad: 7-8 hours (₹500-800)
Trains more comfortable for long distances
Best Time to Visit Gir National Park: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: December to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: December to March | 15-30 degrees C | Ideal temperatures for safaris and wildlife viewing. Lower humidity and clear sk | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: October-November, April-May | 25-40 degrees C | Fewer crowds compared to the peak season. The landscape is lush after the monsoo | The heat can be intense during the |
| Avoid: June to September | 28-35 degrees C | The park is closed to visitors during the monsoon season, making wildlife viewin | The park remains closed for conserv |
Peak season note: This is peak season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Book permits and accommodation several months in advance.
2-Day Gir National Park Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Gir Jungle Trail
The Gir Jungle Trail is the core safari experience, taking you deep into the park. It's a guided jeep safari to spot lions and oth…
💡 Tip: Request a specific route if you have particular interests (e.g., birdwatching).
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
⛰️ Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone)
Devalia Safari Park is a fenced enclosure showcasing Gir's wildlife in a controlled environment. It guarantees sightings of lions …
💡 Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
📍 Kamleshwar Dam
Kamleshwar Dam is a scenic reservoir within Gir National Park. It's a vital water source for the park's wildlife.…
💡 Tip: Carry binoculars for better birdwatching.
🌆 Evening (5 PM – 7 PM)
🙏 Kankai Mata Temple
Kankai Mata Temple is a revered shrine located deep within the Gir forest. It is dedicated to a local deity.…
💡 Tip: Offerings can be purchased near the temple entrance.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🎨 Sasan Gir Museum
The Sasan Gir Museum showcases the history, ecology, and conservation efforts of Gir National Park. It provides insights into the …
💡 Check for guided tours to enhance your understanding.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is a large lake and surrounding marshlands, a haven for migratory birds. While not directly in Gir, it m…
💡 Negotiate the boat fare before boarding.
Top Places to Visit in Gir National Park: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 📍 Gir Jungle Trail | ₹800 (Indians), ₹5500 (foreigners) | 3 hours | 06:00-09:00 & 15:00-18:00 |
| 2 | ⛰️ Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone) | ₹150 (Indians), ₹800 (foreigners) | 2 hours | 08:00-11:00 & 15:00-17:00 |
| 3 | 📍 Kamleshwar Dam | Free | 1 hour | Open 24 hours |
| 4 | 🙏 Kankai Mata Temple | Free | 1 hour | 06:00-18:00 |
| 5 | 🎨 Sasan Gir Museum | ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) | 1 hour | 09:00-17:00 |
| 6 | 📍 Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary | ₹75 (Indians), ₹400 (foreigners) | 4-5 hours | 06:00-18:00 |
| 7 | 🏛️ Junagadh Fort | ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:00-18:00 |
📍 1. Gir Jungle Trail
The Gir Jungle Trail is the core safari experience, taking you deep into the park. It's a guided jeep safari to spot lions and other wildlife.
Honest take: Essential for lion sightings, but can be crowded.
📍 Getting there: Safari jeeps pick you up from your hotel.
⛰️ 2. Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone)
Devalia Safari Park is a fenced enclosure showcasing Gir's wildlife in a controlled environment. It guarantees sightings of lions and other animals.
Honest take: Good for guaranteed sightings, but less authentic than the jungle trail.
📍 Getting there: Located near Sasan Gir; easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.
📍 3. Kamleshwar Dam
Kamleshwar Dam is a scenic reservoir within Gir National Park. It's a vital water source for the park's wildlife.
Honest take: A nice scenic spot but not a primary attraction.
📍 Getting there: Located inside the park; accessible during safari.
Food & Restaurants in Gir National Park: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Kathiyawadi Thali, Undhiyu, Dhokla, Thepla
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Gujarati Thali | ₹₹ (₹800-1200 for two) | Sasan Gir |
| Paneer Tikka Masala | ₹₹ (₹700-1000 for two) | Sasan Gir |
🛺 Street Food: Sasan Gir Market — Bhajiyas, Vada Pav, Tea (₹50-150 per person)
Gir National Park Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹2500-4000/night | ₹8000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Hotels in Gir National Park: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Hotel Girnar
₹800-1200/night
Sasan Gir
Lords Eco Inn Gir
₹1000-1500/night
Sasan Gir
🏨 Mid-Range
Saavaj Resort
₹2500-4000/night
Sasan Gir
The Fern Gir Forest Resort
₹3000-5000/night
Sasan Gir
⭐ Luxury
Woods at Sasan
₹8000+/night
Sasan Gir
Sinh Sadan Gir Lodge
₹7000+/night
Sasan Gir
Gir National Park Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Fake Safari Permits: Buy permits only from the official website or authorized agents. Avoid touts offering cheap deals.
- ✓ Overcharging by Auto-rickshaws: Negotiate the fare beforehand. Insist on using the meter if available.
- ✓ Wear comfortable and breathable clothing. Neutral colors are recommended for safaris. Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- ✓ Limited availability in Sasan Gir. Carry enough cash.
- ✓ Available at the airport and in major cities. Jio and Airtel are good options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Gir National Park
How many days are enough for Gir National Park?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Gir National Park. Day 1 covers Gir Jungle Trail and Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone), while Day 2 explores Sasan Gir Museum and Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary.
What is Gir National Park famous for?
Gir National Park is famous for Asiatic Lions, Wildlife Safari.
What is the best time to visit Gir National Park?
The best time to visit Gir National Park is December to March. Pleasant and dry weather makes wildlife spotting easier. The vegetation is less dense, improving visibility.
How do I reach Gir National Park from Rajkot?
Gir National Park is 160 km from Rajkot by road, approximately 3h 30m drive via Major State Highway. The nearest railway station is Junagadh Junction (JND). The nearest airport is Rajkot Airport (RAJ), 160km from Gir.
Is Gir National Park worth visiting?
Yes, Gir National Park is worth visiting for Asiatic Lions, Wildlife Safari. It is especially recommended for nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Junagadh.
What is the budget for a trip to Gir National Park?
A 2-day trip to Gir National Park costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.
What are the timings of Kankai Mata Temple?
Kankai Mata Temple is open 06:00-18:00. Best time to visit: Anytime during the day.
What is the entry fee for Kankai Mata Temple?
Entry fee at Kankai Mata Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Kankai Mata Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Kankai Mata Temple.