Planning a wildlife getaway to Gujarat’s world-famous Gir National Park is an exciting experience—especially for travellers eager to witness the majestic Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. Whether you’re coming from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, or any other major metro, organizing a smooth and well-structured Gir Wildlife Tour Package requires careful planning, timely bookings, and a clear idea of the best travel season. This guide walks you through everything you need to prepare for a perfect wildlife vacation.
1. Understanding Gir National Park & Why It’s Special
Gir National Park, also known as the Sasan-Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, is the only natural home of the Asiatic lion. Spread across more than 1,400 sq km, it offers diverse landscapes—dry deciduous forest, acacia scrub, grasslands, and rugged hills. Apart from lions, the park is home to leopards, striped hyenas, deer species, crocodiles, over 300 species of birds, and a rich variety of flora.
A properly curated Gir Wildlife Tour Package helps you explore the best zones, ensures you get confirmed safari permits, and provides comfortable accommodation close to the entry gates.
2. Choosing the Best Time to Visit
Gir National Park remains closed between June and mid-October due to the monsoon. The best time to visit is:
- November to February: Pleasant weather, good for long safaris.
- March to May: The dry season increases animal sightings, especially around water bodies.
Booking your Gir Wildlife Tour Package at least 30–45 days in advance during peak season is essential, as safari slots fill up fast.
3. How to Reach Gir From Major Indian Cities
Here’s a detailed travel plan from India’s top metros.
A. From Delhi
By Air:
Fly from Delhi to Rajkot or Diu—both are the closest airports to Gir. Rajkot is around 165 km from Sasan Gir, and Diu is nearly 100 km. Private cabs and buses operate regularly.
By Train:
Trains from Delhi to Junagadh or Veraval are available. From there, taxis and buses connect to Gir in 1–1.5 hours.
By Road:
A road trip from Delhi to Gir (approx. 1,100 km) is long but scenic. Most travellers prefer a combination of train or flight instead.
B. From Mumbai
Mumbai is one of the easiest starting points for travellers booking a Gir Wildlife Tour Package.
By Air:
Direct flights connect Mumbai to Rajkot, Diu, and Porbandar. Rajkot is usually preferred due to higher flight frequency.
By Train:
Multiple trains run from Mumbai to Veraval and Junagadh, making the journey smooth and affordable.
By Road:
The 800-km drive along NH48 and NH27 is a popular choice for road-trippers. It takes around 14–15 hours with breaks.
C. From Bengaluru
By Air:
The fastest option is flying from Bengaluru to Rajkot or Diu. From either airport, book a cab to Sasan Gir.
By Train:
No direct trains run between Bengaluru and Veraval. You will need to connect via Ahmedabad or Pune.
By Road:
The long journey (around 1,700 km) is not recommended unless you want a multi-day road expedition.
D. From Kolkata
By Air:
Kolkata to Rajkot is the most convenient flight route. Another option is Kolkata to Ahmedabad, followed by a 7-hour road trip to Gir.
By Train:
A few long-route trains go from Kolkata to Ahmedabad or Rajkot. From there, take a connecting train or taxi to Gir.
By Road:
A very long route—rarely chosen by travellers.
E. From Chennai
Travelling from Chennai to Gir requires a combination of flight and road.
By Air:
Fly to Rajkot, Diu, or Ahmedabad. Then take a private cab or pre-booked transfer included in your Gir Wildlife Tour Package.
By Train:
One can take a Chennai–Ahmedabad train and then a connecting train to Junagadh/Veraval, followed by a short road journey.
4. Booking Safari Permits in Advance
Safari entry in Gir National Park is strictly regulated, so obtaining permits early is crucial.
There are two main types of safaris:
- Gir Jungle Trail (Jeep Safari) – Offers a deep forest wildlife experience.
- Devalia Safari Park (Interpretation Zone) – A shorter safari ideal for quick lion sightings.
Your Gir Wildlife Tour Package should always include confirmed permits to avoid last-minute hassles. Safari timings differ for winter and summer seasons, and morning slots are preferred for wildlife viewing.
5. Choosing Accommodation Near the Park
Stay options around Sasan Gir include:
- Forest resorts surrounded by greenery
- Luxury wildlife lodges with modern amenities
- Budget hotels near the main entry points
- Eco-friendly camps for an offbeat experience
Most travellers prefer staying close to Sinh Sadan or Devalia Gate for easy access to early morning safaris.
A reliable Gir Wildlife Tour Package usually includes breakfast, dinner, and a two-night stay—ideal for completing 2–3 safari sessions.
6. Itinerary Suggestions for 2–3 Days
Here’s a sample tour plan for first-time visitors:
Day 1: Arrival & Local Exploration
- Check in to your resort
- Visit nearby viewpoints or crocodile breeding centre
- Enjoy tribal cuisine or cultural performances (optional)
Day 2: Jeep Safari + Devalia Tour
- Early morning Gir Jungle Trail
- Afternoon visit to Devalia Interpretation Zone
- Evening nature walk or resort activities
Day 3: Second Safari & Departure
- If possible, take another morning safari
- Check out and travel back to the airport/train station
This structure ensures the best chance of spotting lions and exploring Gir’s diverse wildlife.
7. Packing Essentials for Your Trip
To make your safari comfortable, pack:
- Light cotton clothes
- Binoculars and a DSLR camera
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap
- Sports shoes
- Identity proof for safari permits
- Basic medicines
Avoid bright clothing as it may disturb animals.
8. Responsible Wildlife Tourism Tips
While enjoying your Gir Wildlife Tour Package, follow ethical travel practices:
- Maintain silence during safari
- Do not feed animals
- Keep distance from wildlife
- Avoid littering inside the forest
- Respect forest rules and park guides
Conclusion
A well-planned Gir Wildlife Tour Package from any major Indian city ensures you get the best wildlife experience without last-minute chaos. From choosing the right season and booking safari permits to selecting comfortable stays and planning travel routes, every step adds to a seamless adventure. Whether you’re a photographer, nature lover, or wildlife explorer, Gir National Park promises unforgettable memories—especially when you plan your journey the right way.