The Gir National Park is a nature reserve in the state Gujarat, 65 km to the south-east of Junagadh city. The 258.71 km² large kernel zone of the altogether 1153.42 km² widespread reserve (established in 1965) forms one of the best known national parks of India.
The Gir National Park is the last refuge of the lion outside Africa. The Asian lion wandered before hundred years from Greece to west Asia (Bengal) and to the eastern Himalaya, died then however almost. In 1910, there were only alarming 15 animals in Gir. Intervening protective measures raised population to 400 lions. The majestic Gir lion (Panthera leo goojratensis) becomes up to 2.7 ms long. Elbow tufts and noticeable belly wrinkles distinguish it from the African lion, whose mane is more powerful. The masculine Gir lion has a thicker and bushy tail tassel, is in addition lighter. Both masculine and femine Gir lions love to rest during day in the shadow and to hunt for the prey after dark. The Gir National Park is covered with deciduos forest, acacian groves and grasslands. In Gir, one finds the largest population of swamp crocodiles in India. Furthermore, live in the national park 45,000 Chitals (Spotted deer) as well as 250 leopards.
The forests of Gir were once a hunting ground for the Nawab of Junagadh. The lion hunt was in the history among the attractions, that attracted also big game hunters into the forests. From 1900 onwards, the lion was placed under protection, but further hunted through poachers. The foundation of the Gir National Park on the 21st of May 1975 marked the beginning of an effective protection for the fauna of the forest.
Animals in Park: Gir National Park is famous above all for that it harbors the single living population of the Asian lions. Also other rare animals of India such as the leopard or the four horned antelope are yet to be found here in notable number. Further large species of the national park are Chital, Nilgai (or Bluebull), Sambar deer, Chinkara, Wild boar, wild pigs, asian black bears, mongoose, civet cats, strip hyenas, gold jackals, Indian Star Tortoise and swamp crocodiles.
Safaris: Jeep safaris take place two times a day ,accompanied by a trained colleague of the Wildlife authority. The Safaris last about 2 ½ hours and conducted in early morning (at around 6 a.m.) and in afternoon after lunch (at around 2.30 p.m.). Entrance fee obligatorily.
Best trip time: From the beginning of November until March. From July to September, the park is closed. From middle, March until June it is very hot. Lodging facilities are excellent in Gir. There are many star rated nture resorts.
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