About Gir National Park

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 biodiversity 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. Inthis forested western corner of the country, more than 300 Asiatic lions now share their home with villagers and cattle.

Established in 1965 with an total area of 1412 sq. km((about 258 km² for the fully protected area (the National Park) and 1153 km² for the Sanctuary), these forest are also know as Sasan-Gir, getting this name from the Gimar mountain ranges that surround it.

Wildlife in Gir
The star is definitely the male Lion - best bet is to step out early morning when the loners,pairs or the pride are on patrol, they do not perceive humans as a threat so its quite possible to sight them at close quarters. The 38 species mammals list also includes mongoose, chowsingha and nilgai, which are commonly seen. Its more elusive inhabitants include the leopard(more than 200), spotted hyena and jungle cat. Also found here are the star tortoise and monitor lizard. Gir is also a place to view the marsh crocodile, there numbers are close to a thousand.

Birds : More than 300 species of birds have been listed from Gir, including raptors such as Ospreys, Perigrine Falcons, Fish Owls, Crested Serpent Eagles, Bonelli's Eagles, Goshawks and Pale and Montagu's Harriers. Other avians that might keep birdwatchers busy are Wrynecks, Nightjars, Pygmy Woodpeckers, Indian Pittas, Shrikes, Drongos, Barbets, Indian Rollers, Grey Partridge, Jungle Bush Quail, Painted Sandgrouse, Green Pigeons, Paradise Flycatchers, Bush Larks, Bee Eaters, Minivets and Warblers.