If you want to get a clear glimpse of wildlife in Gujarat, then do make it a point to visit the Gir National Park. The park comprises dry deciduous forested region which is sprawled in an area of 1412 sq km. The park also consists of semi-evergreen and evergreen flora including acacia, scrub jungle and grasslands interspersed with rocky hills. The Gir National Park in Gujarat is fed by rivers and streams and houses the great Kamleshwar Dam that is home to the crocodiles. Originally the park was under the protection of the Nawab of Junagadh.
Gir Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat is home to 300 lions and 300 leopards. You can also spot other wild animals like sambar and spotted deer, blue bull, chousingha, chinkara and wild boar. You might also get a glimpse of mammals like jackal, rusty-spotted cat, langur, porcupine, striped hyena, jungle cat and black-nape Indian hare. You would be fascinated to know that the Gir National Park has a large population of marsh crocodiles popularly known as mugger. Apart from this, the sanctuary boasts of 39 species of reptiles and amphibians.
There are about 250 species of birds at the park. The endangered lesser florican and the saras crane can also be found here. You will come across wild birds like sandgrouse, quails and different species of eagles, vultures and many other birds. Coming to the people of the Gir, the park is also inhabited by Maldharis who form the Hindu and Muslim pastoral groups of the region and Siddhi who are of the African origin. Watching their lifestyle from up close is an interesting experience.
TSI India offers online information and booking for tours to Gir National Park and other National Parks in Gujarat, India. For more information, or to book your tour, please enter your queries in the form below.
