Gir, the last bastion of the Asiatic lion, is a beautiful teak dominated habitat in the Junagadh district in

Kathiawar, Gujarat. One of India's most precious and vital bio-diversity vaults, a semi-arid wilderness emblazoned by rust, beige and the occasional scarlet, when the flame of the forest and silk cotton trees are in bloom, Gir brings to mind visions of distant Africa. In this forested western corner of the country, more than 300 Asiatic lions now share their home with villagers and cattle.

Climate of Gir is a reflection of the terrain of the area. Though average rainfall is more than 600 mm, drought years are quite common. The park is closed for visitors during the monsoons.

Gir is the largest dry, deciduous forest in India and that is not a small feat by any means.  More than 500 plant species have been recorded in Gir forests. These dry forests are also the home to nearly 40 mammals and 300 bird species.

There are mainly three routes, the most productive ones are the ones taken early morning or late evening between Sasan and Kankai, Baval Chowk, Chodavadi and Tulsi Shyam. Other interesting routes are to Deva Danga and Riley's. The crocodile breeding farm (only for release in the wild) at Sasan are definitely worth a visit.

Gir is a major focus area for Lion breeding and conservation in India. Lately, it has also become a major site for the Crocodile Conservation project.

Till recently there were 130  settlements of a unique clan of graziers called Maldharis who lived cheek by jowl with the lions together with their famous 'Gir cattle', buffaloes and goats.