Nestled in the shadow of Gujarat’s sacred Girnar Hills, Girnar Nature Safari Park offers a rare blend of spirituality, biodiversity, and adventure. The Girnar Nature Safari Park is a protected forest zone near Junagadh that invites travelers to experience the wild heart of Saurashtra—home to free-ranging Asiatic lions, ancient temples, and a landscape steeped in legend.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a pilgrim, or a curious explorer, this safari park delivers a soulful journey through nature and heritage.
🧭 What Is Girnar Nature Safari Park?
Girnar Nature Safari Park is part of the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, officially declared a protected area in 2008. Safari operations began in 2021 to ease tourist pressure on Gir National Park while preserving the region’s rich biodiversity. The park spans the foothills of Mount Girnar, weaving together ecological conservation with cultural reverence.
Key Highlights:
- Home to 50+ free-ranging Asiatic lions
- Three-hour guided safari through rugged terrain
- Spiritual landmarks like Indreshwar and Bhavnath temples
- Diverse flora and fauna across 13 km of forest trails
It’s a sanctuary where nature and mythology coexist.
🐾 Wildlife You Can Spot
Girnar Nature Safari Park is a biodiversity hotspot with:
| Species | Likelihood | Best Time to Spot |
| Asiatic Lion | Moderate–High | Early morning, summer afternoons |
| Indian Leopard | Moderate | Dusk and dawn |
| Spotted Deer | Very High | All day |
| Sambar Deer | High | Forest edges |
| Jungle Cat | Rare | Quiet zones |
| Golden Jackal | Moderate | Open grasslands |
| Hyena | Rare | Night sightings |
| Crocodile | High | Near water bodies |
| Birds (300+ species) | Very High | Winter mornings |
The park’s varied topography—rocky hills, dry deciduous forests, and riverine patches—supports a wide range of species.
🚙 Safari Experience and Booking Info
Safari Duration:
- ~3 hours
Safari Route:
- 13 km trail from Indreshwar Naka to Paturan beats
Safari Modes:
- Open Jeep Safari with trained guides and forest officials
Timings:
- Morning: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM
- Evening: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Closed on Wednesdays
Booking:
- Online via Gir Safari Portal
- Advance booking recommended during peak season (Dec–Feb)
💰 Safari Tariffs (2025 Season)
| Visitor Type | Mode | Price (Approx.) |
| Indian Nationals | Jeep | ₹5,200 per jeep (6 adults + 1 child) |
| Foreign Nationals | Jeep | ₹16,800 per jeep |
| Permit Fee | All | Included in package |
Prices include permit, guide, vehicle, and taxes.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Girnar Nature Safari Park
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Pleasant weather, high animal activity
- Summer (Mar–June): Good for lion sightings near waterholes
- Monsoon (Mid-June to Mid-Oct): Park closed
For comfort and sightings, December to March is ideal.
🧳 What to Carry
- Valid ID (same used during booking)
- Binoculars and camera
- Water bottle and sun protection
- Earth-toned clothing and closed shoes
🏨 Where to Stay Nearby
Girnar Nature Safari Park is located near Junagadh, which offers a range of accommodations:
- Budget: Forest guesthouses, local lodges
- Mid-range: Hotel Indralok, Leo Resort
- Luxury: Bellevue Sarovar Portico, The Fern Leo Resort
Book early during peak season to secure preferred stays.
🛕 Spiritual Add-ons: Girnar’s Sacred Landscape
Girnar isn’t just wild—it’s holy. The safari route passes near several revered sites:
- Mount Girnar: A pilgrimage site for Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists
- Bhavnath Mahadev Temple: Famous for its Shivratri fair
- Indreshwar Temple: Linked to ancient legends
- Jain Temples: Clustered atop Girnar’s peaks
Many tour packages combine wildlife safaris with temple visits for a holistic experience.
🌿 Conservation and Community Impact
Girnar Nature Safari Park supports:
- Eco-tourism and education
- Wildlife monitoring and habitat preservation
- Local employment and tribal engagement
- Reduced pressure on Gir National Park
Your visit contributes to sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.
💡 Suggested Itineraries
| Itinerary Name | Duration | Destinations Covered | Ideal For |
| Girnar Wild & Sacred | 2 Days | Safari + Bhavnath Temple + Girnar Trek | Spiritual explorers |
| Saurashtra Wildlife Loop | 3 Days | Girnar → Devaliya → Ambardi Safari | Wildlife lovers |
| Junagadh Heritage Trail | 2 Days | Uparkot Fort → Girnar Safari → Jain Temples | History buffs and families |
📸 Safari Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Book early: Slots open 90 days in advance
- Choose morning slots: Better light and animal activity
- Stay silent: Noise disturbs wildlife and reduces sightings
- Respect the rules: No littering, feeding, or stepping out of the vehicle
✈️ How to Reach Girnar Nature Safari Park
- By Air: Rajkot (100 km), Diu (150 km)
- By Train: Junagadh Junction
- By Road: Well-connected via NH-8 and local highways
Combine your visit with Somnath Temple, Gir National Park, or Diu Fort for a richer itinerary.
Final Thoughts
Girnar Nature Safari Park is more than a safari—it’s a spiritual and ecological journey. Whether you’re spotting lions in the foothills, hiking toward ancient temples, or simply soaking in the silence of the forest, Girnar offers a rare blend of wild beauty and sacred heritage.
Ready to explore Gujarat’s soulful wilderness? Book your safari, pack your devotion, and let Girnar guide you.
