Gir National Park.

Gir National Park, a sanctuary in Gujarat, is a haven for approximately 300 Asiatic lions (Panthera leo). This remarkable park attracts over sixty thousand visitors annually, drawn by the opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Gir holds the unique distinction of being the only place outside of Africa where Asiatic lions can be found in the wild. While slightly smaller than their African counterparts, the male lions of Gir are still an impressive sight to behold. The optimal time to observe these magnificent cats is during dawn and dusk when they are most active.

Beyond lions, Gir forest boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including leopards, chital, chinkara (gazelle), wild boar, wild ass, nilgai, spotted deer, and four-horned antelope. It’s also an excellent location for observing monkeys, parrots, and India’s national bird, the peacock. Adjacent to Sinh Sadan Lodge, a crocodile rearing and research center operates, where hatchlings are raised and later released into the wild, contributing to the conservation efforts of this remarkable ecosystem.