Things to do in Sasan Gir

Why Visit Sasan Gir?

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  Sasan Gir is India’s only wild habitat of the Asiatic lion, with teak forests, rivers, and open scrubland.

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  Expect thrilling dawn safaris, rich birdlife, and quiet village stays along the forest edge.

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  You can combine Gir Jungle Trail drives with interpretation-zone rides, dam viewpoints, and nearby coastal/temple day trips.

Best Areas to Stay in Sasan Gir

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  Sinh Sadan / Gir Safari Gate Vicinity: The closest area to the park’s permit office and main safari entry points, making it convenient for early morning drives and first-time visitors.

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  Devaliya (Interpretation Zone) Belt: A family-friendly zone with stays near the fenced safari circuit, offering a shorter experience with higher chances of wildlife sightings.

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  Gir–Somnath Corridor (Talala / Veraval Road): This stretch features resorts and hotels with direct highway access, useful for travellers combining wildlife trips with temple or coastal visits.

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  Gir–Junagadh Side: A quieter region dotted with lodges and homestays, ideal for those seeking village walks, birdwatching, and peaceful stays along the river.

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  Kamleshwar Dam Vicinity: Stay near this scenic spot inside the park for serene water views and proximity to birding areas.

Must-visit Attractions in Sasan Gir

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  Gir Jungle Trail (Core Safari): Take a guided jeep safari at dawn or late afternoon through designated forest routes. Make sure to book permits well in advance.

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  Devaliya Safari Park (Interpretation Zone): Opt for this shorter, fenced safari for a higher chance of spotting lions and other wildlife up close.

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  Kamleshwar Dam: Visit this scenic reservoir within the forest. It’s a great spot to spot crocodiles and migratory waterbirds from elevated viewpoints.

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  Crocodile Breeding Centre (Sasan area): Make a quick, informative stop to learn about Gir’s thriving marsh ecosystem and conservation efforts.

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  Kankai Mata Temple (inside forest): A serene devotional site set amid forested hills. Access may vary based on park regulations.

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  Somnath/Junagadh Day Trips: Extend your visit with nearby excursions like temple trails along the coast or fort climbs with ropeway views.

Your Itinerary for a Mini Trip

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  Day 1: Arrive – Collect/confirm Safari Permits – Evening Devaliya Safari Park ride – Village walk and early dinner.

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  Day 2: Dawn Gir Jungle Trail (core) – Brunch at lodge – Relax by Kamleshwar Dam viewpoint – Late-afternoon Gir Jungle Trail.

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  Day 3: Optional Kankai Mata Temple or Crocodile Breeding Centre – Depart via Somnath coast or Junagadh (Uparkot/Girnar).

Good to Know Before You Travel

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  Best Time to Visit: October–June (park typically closes during monsoon); peak sightings Nov–April.

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  Permits & Timings: Book Gir Jungle Trail permits online in advance; carry original photo ID for all travellers.

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  Getting Around: Use lodge-arranged jeeps or authorised guides. Roads between gates can be slow, so factor buffer time.

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  Safety & Etiquette: Keep noise low, stay seated, no feeding wildlife, and follow guide instructions; maintain distance from animals.

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  Food Options: Lodge buffets and local eateries; try Kathiyawadi thali, bajra rotla with kadhi, and seasonal undhiyu (winter).

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  What to Shop: Local handicrafts, forest honey, jaggery, wooden artefacts, and regional snacks.

Hidden Gems In & Around Sasan Gir

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  Tulsi Shyam (Hot Springs): About 35 km from Sasan Gir, this forest-side temple complex is known for its natural sulphur springs. Check entry timings and road conditions before visiting.

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  Jamjir Waterfall (near Kodinar): Around 65 km from Sasan Gir, this seasonal waterfall is at its best just after the monsoon. Plan an early start for the drive and views.

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  Birding by Hiran & Shingoda Rivers: Within a few kilometres of the Gir forest, dawn walks along these rivers reveal owls, bee-eaters, kingfishers, and other local species outside the core sanctuary zones.

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  Girnar Hills (Junagadh): Roughly 60 km from Sasan Gir, this ancient hill range offers a ropeway to Ambaji and Datatrey shrines, along with sweeping views.