Nestled on the periphery of Gujarat’s famed Gir National Park, Devalia Safari Park—also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone—offers a curated, accessible, and immersive wildlife experience. Designed to ease the pressure on the core Gir forest while giving visitors a chance to witness the majestic Asiatic lion and other native species, Devalia is a conservation marvel and a photographer’s delight.

Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a family traveler, or a spiritual seeker exploring Gujarat’s cultural circuits, Devalia Safari Park is a must-visit destination that blends education, ecology, and excitement.

📍 Where is Devalia Safari Park?

• Location: Talala Taluka, Junagadh District, Gujarat

• Distance from Sasan Gir: ~12 km

• Nearest Railway Station: Junagadh (~60 km) or Veraval (~45 km)

• Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (~110 km) or Rajkot (~160 km)

Strategically located near the Gir National Park, Devalia acts as a buffer zone and an ideal prelude to the main forest safari.

🦁 Why Visit Devalia Safari Park?

1. Guaranteed Lion Sightings

Unlike the core Gir forest, where wildlife sightings depend on luck and timing, Devalia offers a high probability of spotting Asiatic lions in a semi-wild, fenced habitat. This makes it ideal for:

• First-time visitors

• Families with children

• Elderly travelers

• Wildlife photographers on a tight schedule

2. Compact Yet Diverse

Spread over 412 hectares, the park is home to:

• Asiatic lions

• Indian leopards

• Spotted deer (chital)

• Blue bulls (nilgai)

• Wild boars

• Sambar deer

• Peacocks and over 100 bird species

The landscape includes grasslands, scrub forests, and water bodies, offering a microcosm of Gir’s ecosystem.

3. Eco-Education and Conservation

Devalia is not just a safari—it’s an interpretation zone. Visitors gain insights into:

• Gir’s biodiversity

• Conservation efforts for the Asiatic lion

• Human-wildlife coexistence in the Saurashtra region

🚙 Safari Experience: What to Expect

Safari Types:

• Bus Safari: 30–40 seater, ideal for groups and budget travelers

• Gypsy Safari: 6-seater open jeeps, perfect for photographers and wildlife lovers

Duration:

• ~30–45 minutes per safari round

Timings:

• Morning: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM

• Evening: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  (Closed on Wednesdays)

Entry Fees (approximate):

Note: Rates may vary seasonally. Online booking is recommended via the Gujarat Forest Department portal.

📸 Wildlife Highlights: What You Might See

🦁 Asiatic Lion

• The star attraction—majestic, muscular, and slightly smaller than its African cousin

• Often seen lounging under trees or walking along safari tracks

🐆 Indian Leopard

• Elusive and solitary, but occasionally spotted in the early morning or late afternoon

🦌 Herbivores Galore

• Herds of chital, sambar, and nilgai roam freely

• Wild boars and blackbucks add to the diversity

🦚 Avian Wonders

• Peacocks, parakeets, eagles, and migratory birds during winter

• Ideal for birdwatchers and nature photographers

🧭 Suggested Itinerary: Devalia + Gir + Beyond (3 Days)

Day 1:

• Arrive in Sasan Gir

• Evening Devalia Safari

• Visit Gir Museum and Crocodile Breeding Centre

Day 2:

• Early morning Gir Jungle Safari

• Lunch at a forest lodge

• Tribal village visit or nature trail

Day 3:

• Optional second Devalia Safari

• Drive to Somnath (45 km) or Diu (110 km) for coastal exploration

🏨 Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Budget:

• Gir Jungle Lodge

• Hotel Umang

• Daksh Resort

Mid-Range:

• The Fern Gir Forest Resort

• Gir Lion’s Paw Resort

• Anil Farm House

Luxury:

• Woods at Sasan (eco-luxury retreat)

• Aramness Gir (ultra-luxury safari lodge)

Most resorts offer packages that include meals, safaris, and cultural experiences.

🌿 Responsible Travel Tips

• Respect Wildlife: Maintain silence, avoid flash photography, and don’t feed animals

• Dress Appropriately: Earth-toned clothes, hats, and closed shoes recommended

• Avoid Plastics: Carry reusable water bottles and bags

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (Dec–Feb)

🎉 Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for safaris and photography

• April to mid-June: Hot but excellent for lion sightings

• Monsoon (June–Sept): Park remains closed

🧘‍♂️ Who Should Visit?

• Wildlife Enthusiasts: For close encounters with India’s apex predator

• Families: Safe, short safaris with high sighting chances

• Spiritual Travelers: Combine with Somnath, Girnar, or Dwarka

• Photographers: Great light, open landscapes, and diverse fauna

• Eco-Tourists: Learn about conservation and sustainable tourism

🗺️ Nearby Attractions

• Gir National Park: The only natural habitat of Asiatic lions

• Somnath Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, ~45 km away

• Girnar Hills: Sacred Jain and Hindu pilgrimage site

• Diu Island: Portuguese heritage, beaches, and forts (~3 hours away)

🧳 What to Pack

• Binoculars and camera

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• Light woolens (winter), cottons (summer)

• ID proof for safari entry

• Reusable water bottle and snacks

🧡 Final Thoughts

Devalia Safari Park is more than a wildlife destination—it’s a gateway to Gujarat’s ecological soul. It offers a rare chance to witness the regal Asiatic lion in a setting that’s both accessible and conservation-focused. Whether you’re tracing the spiritual circuits of Saurashtra or crafting a wildlife-themed itinerary, Devalia adds depth, drama, and discovery to your journey.