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| Gir Wildlife Sanctuary |
 Location
Ahmedabad (400 kms), Junagarh (42 kms)
Known For
Asiatic Lions
Climate
The climate prevailing in the Gir region is tropical with extreme variations. In the summer temperature is as high as 46° C. An extreme low of 6° C is experienced in winters. An average annual rainfall of 1000 mm is received during monsoons.
The best time to visit this sanctuary is during the months of November to June (although the sanctuary remains accessible throughout the year).
The Park
Situated in the southwest of Gujarat, this wildlife sanctuary is the last left over habitat of Asiatic lions. The striking sanctuary comprises many beautiful lakes and rivers, which makes Gir rich in sources of water.
This sanctuary is a step towards preserving the various species of animals that were on the verge of extinction due to uncontrolled hunting by the British before independence. Gir was given wildlife sanctuary status after independence.
Attractions in the Park
Flora : Teak, Acacia and Banyan are the main trees in the mainly deciduous forests of Gir. Karanj, Jamun, Tendu, Ber, Semul, Vad, Umro, Charal, Kalam, Sirus, Amli and other species of trees are also found near the water bodies. Such evergreen trees are helpful in maintaining the moisture content in the area with their broad leaves.
Fauna :
Apart from Asiatic Lions, Gir Sanctuary has the largest population of Leopards in India. Other animals found are Sambar, Chital, Nilgai, Chowsingha, Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur, Jackal, Panthers, Wild Cats, Hares and Hyena.
Avifauna :
Due to the fact that there are a number of water sources in the area, the birds are attracted towards this place during winters. Both local and migratory species of birds can be seen in this sanctuary. Paradise Flycatchers, Black headed Cuckoo Shrike, Gray Drongo, Pied Woodpeckers, Coppersmiths, Indian Rollers, Crested Swifts, Fish Owls, Black Vultures, Shaheen Falcons, Bonelli's Eagles, Flamingo, Crested Serpent Eagles, Painted Sandgrouse, Rock Bush Quail, Gray Partridge, Painted Storks and White Necked Storks are some of the commonly seen bird species here.
Other Places to Visit
Junagarh :
Junagarh is just 42 Km from the Gir forests. It is a old city with medieval period heritage in the form of its forts and places of religious worship, which are worth exploring. One of the major attractions is Uperkot Fort, regarded an architectural masterpiece. Jami Masjid, Mahabat Maqbara and Durbar Hall Museum are some other attractions.
How To Reach
By Air : Diu Airport is 104 kms from Gir, Ahmedabad Airport is 381 kms from Gir and Rajkot airport is 150 kms. However, Ahmedabad and Rajkot airports are the most convenient.
By Rail :
Junagarh railway station is the nearest at a distance of 65 kms from Gir, which is connected to a number of major destinations in India through express trains.
By Road : Gir is accessible via roadway from Junagarh and from the major towns of Gujrat.
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