NATIONAL PARKS OF INDIA

Gir National Park is considered to be the last home of the Asiatic Lions. It is located about 360 km from Ahmedabad, in the Junagadh district of Gujarat.

Brief History
The park was first established in 1975. The park is also referred to as Sasan-Gir. The total area of the park is about 258 sq. km.

Fauna
Most of the lions of the world today are found in and around the Sasan-Gir. The other animals of the park include Indian Leopards, Indian Cobras, Four-horned Antelope, Striped Hyenas, Indian Mongoose, Golden Jackals, Blackbucks, Indian Palm Civets, Monitor Lizard, Chital, Pangolin, Marsh crocodile, Pythons, etc.

Avian-fauna
Endangered Bonelli's Eagle, Brown Fish Owl, Crested Hawk-eagle, Pygmy Woodpecker, Vultures, Indian Pitta are some of the birds that can be sighted here.

Flora
The trees that are found in Gir National Park are khakhro, khair, samai, timru, asundro jambu, amla, kalam, simal, etc. Teak is the most prominent tree here.

Tourist information
The tourist can find lodging in the Sinh Sadan Guest House, which is maintained by the forest department. Other inexpensive hotels and lodges can be found at Devalia.

Park entry permit can be obtained at the Sinh Sadan Orientation Centre. Limited permit are issued to the visitors. During the peak season it is advisable to reach the permit office well in advance to avoid missing out on an entry permit.

Getting there
The prime entrance to the park is situated at Sasan Gir village. The nearest bus terminal and railhead are at Junagadh (about 65 km away). Junagadh is well connected by regular train and bus services with other parts of Gujarat. Direct private bus from Ahmedabad to Sasan Gir is also available. The Nearest airports are at Keshod (40 Kms), Diu (110 Kms) and Rajkot (160 Kms).

General information
Address: Gir National Park SH 26, Bhojde, Gujarat, India.
Contact number: 092 12 615296
Ideal time to visit: December to March
Entry timings: 8:00 am - 11:00 am & 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm (daily)
Entry fee applicable