Located near the ancient city of Junagadh, Girnar Nature Safari Park is a wildlife interpretation zone that combines the thrill of a jungle safari with the serenity of a spiritual pilgrimage. Officially part of the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, this park is designed to showcase the biodiversity of the Gir ecosystem while offering high-probability sightings of Asiatic lions, leopards, antelopes, and a variety of birds.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a pilgrim visiting Girnar Hill, or a traveler seeking offbeat experiences, Girnar Nature Safari Park promises a memorable journey into Gujarat’s wild heart.
📍 Location and Accessibility
- District: Junagadh, Gujarat
- Nearest City: Junagadh (~5 km)
- Nearest Airport: Rajkot (~100 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Junagadh Junction
- Address: Near Old Fort, Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary
The park’s proximity to Girnar Hill and Junagadh’s historical landmarks makes it ideal for combining nature and culture in one itinerary.
🌳 Landscape and Habitat
Girnar Nature Safari Park spans a diverse terrain of dry deciduous forest, rocky hills, and scrubland. The sanctuary is part of the larger Girnar forest ecosystem, which includes:
- Five sacred peaks of Girnar Hill
- Seasonal rivers and water bodies
- Native flora like teak, acacia, banyan, and flame of the forest
This rich topography supports a wide range of wildlife and offers stunning vistas for photography and meditation.
🦁 Wildlife at Girnar Nature Safari Park
The park is home to over 50 free-ranging Asiatic lions, making it one of the few places outside the core Gir National Park where these majestic cats can be seen in the wild.
Key Species
- Asiatic Lions: Often seen patrolling or resting near waterholes
- Leopards: Elusive and agile, spotted in rocky terrain
- Spotted Deer (Chital): Commonly seen grazing in herds
- Nilgai (Blue Bull) and Sambar Deer
- Wild Boars, Jackals, and Indian Foxes
- Birds: Peafowl, vultures, parakeets, and migratory species
The park’s layout and vegetation make it ideal for wildlife viewing, especially during early morning and late afternoon safaris.
🚙 Safari Experience
Girnar Nature Safari Park offers jeep safaris through designated zones. Each safari is accompanied by trained guides and follows a fixed route through prime wildlife habitat.
Safari Details
- Duration: ~3 hours
- Timings: 6:45 AM–9:45 AM and 3:00 PM–6:00 PM
- Vehicle Capacity: Up to 6 adults and 1 child per jeep
- Booking: Online via Gujarat Forest Department
Pro Tip: Book safaris at least 30 days in advance during peak season (November to March).
🎟️ Entry Fees and Booking
| Category | Price per Jeep |
| Indian Nationals | ₹5,500 |
| Foreign Nationals | ₹13,800 |
Note: Payment does not guarantee booking confirmation. Visitors must call to confirm availability after payment.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather and active wildlife
- April to May: Hot but excellent for lion sightings
- June to September: Closed due to monsoon
Morning safaris offer better chances for animal activity, while evening slots provide golden light for photography.
🏨 Where to Stay
Junagadh offers a range of accommodations:
- Luxury Resorts: The Fern Girnar, Leo Resort
- Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel Indralok, Hotel Sapphire
- Budget Options: Guesthouses and homestays near Girnar Hill
Many stays offer safari booking assistance and local guides.
🧭 Travel Tips
- Wear neutral-colored clothing and comfortable shoes
- Carry binoculars, sunscreen, and water bottles
- Avoid loud noises and sudden movements during safaris
- Respect wildlife and follow guide instructions
- Combine your visit with a trek to Girnar Hill or a tour of Uparkot Fort
🕉️ Nearby Attractions
- Girnar Hill: A sacred pilgrimage site with Jain and Hindu temples
- Uparkot Fort: Ancient fort with Buddhist caves and stepwells
- Mahabat Maqbara: Indo-Islamic architectural marvel in Junagadh
- Sakkarbaug Zoo: One of India’s oldest zoos, also involved in lion conservation
🌿 Conservation and Education
Girnar Nature Safari Park plays a vital role in:
- Reducing pressure on Gir’s core zone
- Educating visitors about lion conservation
- Supporting local communities through eco-tourism
Interpretive signage and guided tours enhance awareness and appreciation of Gujarat’s biodiversity.
🌍 Why Visit Girnar Nature Safari Park?
Girnar Nature Safari Park is more than a wildlife destination—it’s a spiritual and ecological sanctuary. With its unique blend of sacred geography, thriving wildlife, and cultural heritage, the park offers a compact yet profound experience of Gujarat’s natural and spiritual soul.
Whether you’re seeking a lion encounter, a peaceful nature retreat, or a deeper connection with India’s sacred landscapes, Girnar welcomes you with open forests and roaring stories.
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