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.
