If you’re craving a travel experience that blends wildlife, spirituality, and scenic grandeur, the Girnar Nature Safari Park in Gujarat offers a rare and unforgettable escape. Nestled around the legendary Girnar Hills near Junagadh, this sanctuary is a vibrant mosaic of biodiversity, mythology, and adventure. While Gir National Park is famed for its Asiatic lions, Girnar Nature Safari Park provides a quieter, more immersive alternative—where nature whispers, leopards roam, and ancient peaks watch over the forest.
Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or a curious traveler, Girnar Nature Safari Park invites you to explore a landscape where ecology and divinity coexist.
🐾 What Is Girnar Nature Safari Park?
Girnar Nature Safari Park is a protected forest ecosystem located near Junagadh in Gujarat. Officially declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2008 and opened for safari tourism in 2021, it was designed to ease pressure on Gir National Park while preserving the rich biodiversity of the Girnar region.
- Area: ~180 sq. km
- Location: Foothills of Girnar Hills, Junagadh district
- Part of: Gir Protected Area Network
- Safari Route: Indreshwar Naka to Paturan beats (~13 km)
- Safari Type: Guided gypsy rides with trained eco-guides
The sanctuary is a unique blend of dry deciduous forests, rocky terrain, and spiritual landmarks, making it one of the most distinctive wildlife zones in India.
🦁 Wildlife at Girnar Nature Safari Park
Girnar is a haven for wildlife lovers. While it shares ecological ties with Gir National Park, it offers a distinct habitat and species density.
Key Species You Might Spot:
- Asiatic Lions: Over 50 free-ranging lions roam the sanctuary
- Leopards: High density in the Girnar Hills
- Sloth Bears: Common in hilly terrain
- Spotted Deer, Sambar, Nilgai, Chinkara
- Jungle Cats, Civet Cats, Golden Jackals, Hyenas
- Crocodiles: Found in nearby rivers
- Birds: Over 300 species including eagles, vultures, and migratory birds
Girnar is especially important for vulture conservation, hosting endangered species like the long-billed vulture, white-rumped vulture, and king vulture.
🌿 Vegetation and Landscape
The sanctuary’s terrain is a mix of dry deciduous forests, scrublands, and grassy patches. Dominant flora includes:
- Teak
- Acacia
- Zizyphus
- Medicinal herbs and shrubs
The varied topography—from forested valleys to rocky ridges—creates diverse microhabitats that support a wide range of species.
🚡 Girnar Ropeway: A Scenic Bonus
One of the highlights of visiting Girnar Nature Safari Park is the Girnar Ropeway, Asia’s longest ropeway, which offers panoramic views of the Girnar Hills and surrounding forest. It connects visitors to the Ambaji Temple atop the hill and adds a spiritual dimension to the safari experience.
- Length: ~2.3 km
- Duration: ~7.5 minutes
- View: Forest canopy, temple peaks, and wildlife corridors
It’s a must-do for photographers, pilgrims, and nature lovers alike.
🛺 Safari Experience: What to Expect
The safari is conducted in designated gypsy vehicles with trained eco-guides. Each ride accommodates:
- Up to 6 adults
- One child (aged 3–12)
- Duration: ~3 hours
- Routes: Carefully mapped for wildlife viewing and minimal disturbance
Safari slots are limited to preserve the ecosystem, so advance booking is essential.
📅 Best Time to Visit Girnar Nature Safari Park
Timing your visit enhances your experience:
| Season | Months | Safari Timings | Highlights |
| Winter | Oct–Feb | 6:45 AM–9:45 AM, 3–6 PM | Pleasant weather, ideal for wildlife spotting |
| Summer | Mar–Jun | 6:00 AM–9:00 AM, 4–7 PM | Good visibility, active wildlife near water sources |
| Monsoon | Jul–Sep | Closed | Heavy rains, slippery terrain |
Note: The park is closed annually from June 16 to October 15 and during Girnar Parikrama and Mahashivratri festivals.
💰 Safari Permit Charges
| Day Type | Indian Visitors | Foreign Visitors |
| Weekdays (Mon–Fri) | ₹800/gypsy | ₹6560/gypsy |
| Extra Child (3–12 yrs) | ₹100 | ₹1640 |
| Weekends & Festival Days | ₹1000/gypsy | ₹8200/gypsy |
| Extra Child (3–12 yrs) | ₹125 | ₹2050 |
Each gypsy includes a guide and driver. Online booking is recommended to secure your slot.
📍 How to Reach Girnar Nature Safari Park
Girnar is easily accessible from major cities in Gujarat:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Rajkot (~100 km); other options include Diu and Ahmedabad
- By Rail: Nearest station is Junagadh; well-connected to Rajkot and Ahmedabad
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis available from Junagadh to the safari gate
Local transport options include autos, taxis, and ropeway shuttles.
🧭 Nearby Attractions to Explore
Extend your trip with these nearby gems:
- Gir National Park (50 km): The core habitat of Asiatic lions
- Junagadh City: Historical sites like Uparkot Fort, Mahabat Maqbara, and Buddhist caves
- Ambaji Temple: A revered pilgrimage site atop Girnar Hill
- Girnar Hill Trek: A spiritual and scenic climb with over 10,000 steps
These add-ons make your Girnar safari a well-rounded nature and culture experience.
💡 Tips for Visitors
To make the most of your Girnar Nature Safari:
- Book your safari online in advance
- Wear neutral-colored clothing and comfortable shoes
- Carry binoculars, water, and sunscreen
- Avoid loud noises and littering
- Respect wildlife and follow guide instructions
Final Thoughts
The Girnar Nature Safari Park is more than a wildlife destination—it’s a soulful blend of nature, mythology, and adventure. Whether you’re tracking leopards through teak forests, soaring above the canopy on a ropeway, or meditating at a hilltop temple, Girnar offers a journey that’s as enriching as it is exhilarating.
