Gir National Park Tour Packages: A Guide to India’s Lion Kingdom
Tucked away in the rugged hills of Gujarat’s Junagadh district, Gir National Park is the only place on Earth where the majestic Asiatic lion roams free in the wild. Gir National Park tour packages offer travelers a rare opportunity to witness this regal predator in its natural habitat, along with a rich diversity of flora, fauna, and tribal culture. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or a family seeking an adventurous getaway, Gir promises an unforgettable experience. This guide explores the best Gir National Park tour packages, key attractions, sample itineraries, accommodation options, and travel tips to help you plan your perfect jungle escape.
🦁 Why Choose Gir National Park?
Gir is not just about lions—it’s a thriving ecosystem that supports:- Over 600 Asiatic lions, the last of their kind in the wild.
- Leopards, hyenas, jackals, and marsh crocodiles.
- Deer species like chital, sambar, and four-horned antelope.
- 300+ bird species, including crested serpent eagles, paradise flycatchers, and painted storks.
- Maldhari tribal villages, offering a glimpse into harmonious human-wildlife coexistence.
🧭 Types of Gir National Park Tour Packages
1. Weekend Wildlife Escape (2N/3D)
- Ideal for: Families, couples, and short-break travelers.
- Inclusions: 1–2 jeep safaris, accommodation, meals, and transfers from Junagadh or Rajkot.
- Highlights: Morning and evening safaris, tribal village visit, and nature walk.
2. Wildlife Photography Expedition (4N/5D)
- Ideal for: Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Inclusions: 3–4 safaris in different zones, expert naturalist, photography sessions.
- Highlights: Golden hour lion tracking, birdwatching trails, and hide-based photography.
3. Gir–Somnath–Diu Circuit (5N/6D)
- Ideal for: Spiritual and leisure travelers.
- Inclusions: Safari in Gir, temple visit in Somnath, beach stay in Diu.
- Highlights: Lion sightings, Somnath Jyotirlinga darshan, and coastal relaxation.
4. Luxury Jungle Retreat (3N/4D)
- Ideal for: Honeymooners and premium travelers.
- Inclusions: Boutique resort stay, private safaris, spa treatments, and curated meals.
- Highlights: Candlelight dinners, wellness sessions, and exclusive wildlife experiences.
🗺️ Sample Itinerary: 3N/4D Gir National Park Tour
Day 1: Arrival and Forest Welcome- Pickup from Rajkot or Diu Airport.
- Scenic drive to Gir (approx. 3–4 hours).
- Check-in at forest resort or eco-lodge.
- Evening nature walk or tribal village visit.
- Dinner and overnight stay.
- Early morning jeep safari in Gir National Park.
- Spot Asiatic lions, leopards, deer, and exotic birds.
- Return for breakfast and leisure time.
- Optional visit to Devaliya Safari Park (fenced zone with high lion density).
- Evening bonfire and wildlife documentary screening.
- Second jeep safari in a different zone.
- Visit Kamleshwar Dam for birdwatching and crocodile spotting.
- Explore Gir Interpretation Zone and museum.
- Optional excursion to Somnath Temple or Junagadh Fort.
- Dinner and overnight stay.
- Breakfast and checkout.
- Transfer back to Rajkot, Diu, or onward destination.
🏨 Accommodation Options
Gir National Park tour packages typically include stays at:| Category | Features |
| Budget Hotels | Basic amenities, ideal for backpackers and short stays. |
| Mid-range Resorts | Comfortable rooms, in-house dining, and proximity to safari gates. |
| Luxury Lodges | Boutique villas, private decks, spa, curated meals, and jungle views. |
| Eco-Lodges | Sustainable stays with nature trails and organic food. |
- The Fern Gir Forest Resort
- Woods at Sasan
- Asiatic Lion Lodge
- Gir Jungle Lodge
🚙 Safari Essentials
- Safari Duration: 3 hours (morning and evening slots).
- Zones: Kamleshwar, Chodavadi, Sasan, and others.
- Permit Booking: Required in advance via the Gujarat Forest Department portal.
- Vehicle Type: Open 4×4 jeeps with trained naturalists.
- Best Time for Sightings: Early morning (6–9 AM) and late afternoon (3–6 PM).
📅 Best Time to Visit Gir
| Season | Months | Experience Highlights |
| Winter | October–February | Pleasant weather, peak lion activity, ideal for families. |
| Summer | March–May | Sparse foliage, excellent visibility, great for photographers. |
| Monsoon | June–September | Park closed for breeding season. Devaliya remains open. |
📸 What to Pack
- Light cotton clothes and a jacket for early mornings.
- Binoculars and a camera with zoom lens.
- Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent.
- ID proof for safari permits.
- Reusable water bottle and eco-friendly toiletries.
🐾 Add-On Experiences
- Devaliya Safari Park: A fenced zone offering guaranteed lion sightings.
- Gir Birding Trails: Guided walks for birdwatchers.
- Maldhari Village Visit: Learn about tribal life and lion coexistence.
- Somnath Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, just 45 km from Gir.
- Junagadh Fort & Uparkot Caves: Historical sites with Buddhist and Hindu influences.
💰 Inclusions in Most Packages
- Accommodation with all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
- 2–3 jeep safaris with permits and guide fees.
- Transfers from Rajkot, Diu, or Junagadh.
- Nature walks, cultural activities, and park entry fees.
- Optional excursions and wellness add-ons in premium packages.
🧭 Booking Tips
- Book safaris and accommodations at least 30 days in advance during peak season.
- Choose weekday travel to avoid weekend rush.
- Verify guide credentials and vehicle quality.
- Check for eco-certifications if choosing sustainable stays.
🌿 Responsible Travel in Gir
Gir is a fragile ecosystem. As a responsible traveler:- Avoid littering and plastic use.
- Maintain silence during safaris.
- Do not feed or provoke wildlife.
- Support local artisans and tribal communities.
- Choose eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators.