Tucked into the ancient folds of Mount Girnar near Junagadh, the Girnar Nature Safari Park is one of Gujarat’s most captivating eco-tourism experiences. Girnar Nature Safari Park offers a rare blend of wildlife, spirituality, and scenic beauty—making it a must-visit for nature lovers, pilgrims, and adventure seekers alike. With over 50 free-ranging Asiatic lions, lush forests, and myth-laced trails, this park is where ecology and mythology meet.
🐾 What Makes Girnar Nature Safari Park Unique?
Unlike traditional zoos or fenced reserves, Girnar Nature Safari Park is a free-range sanctuary where animals roam in their natural habitat. It’s part of the larger Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, which spans rugged hills, rivers, and dense vegetation.
- Wildlife: Asiatic lions, leopards, hyenas, jackals, nilgai, wild boar, and over 200 bird species.
- Landscape: Rocky terrain, dry deciduous forests, and seasonal streams.
- Cultural backdrop: The park surrounds Mount Girnar, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists.
Visitors experience not just wildlife, but also the spiritual energy of a region steeped in legend.
🚙 Safari Experience: What to Expect
The safari is conducted in open gypsy vehicles with trained guides and forest staff. It’s designed to be immersive, educational, and respectful of the ecosystem.
- Duration: 2–3 hours
- Timings: Morning and evening slots (best for animal sightings)
- Zones: Divided into multiple eco-routes to minimize human impact
- Highlights:
- Spotting Asiatic lions in the wild
- Birdwatching near water bodies
- Scenic views of Girnar’s peaks and valleys
Advance booking is required through the official portal.
🏞️ Attractions Inside and Around the Park
Girnar Nature Safari Park is more than just wildlife—it’s a gateway to history, spirituality, and adventure.
1. Mount Girnar
- Significance: Sacred to Hindus and Jains; home to temples dating back over 2,000 years.
- Trek: 10,000+ steps to reach the summit; offers panoramic views and spiritual rewards.
- Temples: Ambaji Temple, Dattatreya Temple, and Jain shrines like Neminath Temple.
2. Uparkot Fort
- Location: Junagadh city, near the park
- Highlights: Buddhist caves, stepwells, and ancient cannons
3. Damodar Kund
- A sacred lake believed to cleanse sins; popular among pilgrims and nature lovers.
4. Mahabat Maqbara
- A stunning Indo-Islamic mausoleum in Junagadh, known for its spiral staircases and intricate carvings.
🌿 Flora and Fauna
Girnar’s biodiversity is shaped by its unique topography and climate.
- Flora: Teak, acacia, flame of the forest, and medicinal herbs
- Fauna:
- Mammals: Asiatic lions, leopards, sloth bears, civets
- Birds: Paradise flycatcher, crested serpent eagle, peafowl
- Reptiles: Monitor lizards, snakes, turtles
The park is a hotspot for researchers and photographers seeking rare sightings.
🧭 How to Reach Girnar Nature Safari Park
- By Air: Nearest airport is Rajkot (~100 km); Porbandar and Diu are also viable options.
- By Train: Junagadh Railway Station is well-connected to Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Somnath.
- By Road: Junagadh is accessible via NH8D; taxis and buses are available from major cities.
🏨 Where to Stay
Junagadh offers a range of accommodations for safari-goers:
- Budget stays: Guesthouses and lodges near the park entrance
- Mid-range hotels: Comfortable rooms with local cuisine and guided tour options
- Eco-resorts: Nature-themed stays with views of Girnar hills
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (October to March).
🎟️ Safari Booking and Entry Fees
- Booking: Online only via the official Gir Safari portal
- Documents required: Valid ID proof (Aadhaar, passport, etc.)
- Fees:
- Indian nationals: Approx ₹800–₹1,200 per person
- Foreign nationals: Higher rates apply
- Camera charges: Extra for DSLRs and video equipment
Safari slots fill quickly—especially during weekends and holidays—so plan ahead.
📅 Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Experience Highlights |
| Winter | Oct–Feb | Pleasant weather, clear skies, active wildlife |
| Summer | Mar–Jun | Hot but good for lion sightings |
| Monsoon | Jul–Sep | Lush greenery, limited safari access |
Winter is ideal for combining wildlife with temple treks and cultural exploration.
🧳 Travel Tips
- Dress comfortably: Neutral colors, closed shoes, and sun protection
- Carry essentials: Water, binoculars, camera, ID proof
- Respect wildlife: No loud noises, littering, or feeding animals
- Stay hydrated: Especially during summer safaris
- Hire local guides: They enrich your experience with stories and ecological insights
📸 Girnar Nature Safari Park at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Junagadh, Gujarat |
| Wildlife | Asiatic lions, leopards, birds, reptiles |
| Safari Type | Open gypsy vehicle, guided |
| Booking | Online only |
| Nearby Attractions | Mount Girnar, Uparkot Fort, Damodar Kund |
| Best Season | October to February |
| Accessibility | Road, rail, and air via Rajkot or Junagadh |
Girnar Nature Safari Park is not just a wildlife destination—it’s a soulful journey through Gujarat’s ecological and spiritual heart. Whether you’re spotting lions in the wild, trekking ancient temple trails, or soaking in the serenity of the Sarovar, Girnar offers an experience that’s both primal and profound. For travelers seeking nature with a narrative, this park is pure magic.
