Located near Junagadh in Gujarat, Girnar Nature Safari Park is a rising star in India’s wildlife tourism landscape. Officially launched in 2021, this safari park is part of the Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected zone that balances ecological conservation with spiritual tourism. Unlike the core Gir National Park, Girnar offers a more tranquil, culturally rich safari experience—set against the backdrop of the legendary Mount Girnar, revered by Hindus, Jains, and Buddhists alike.

Whether you’re chasing lion sightings, exploring ancient temples, or soaking in the serenity of the forested hills, Girnar Nature Safari Park promises a journey that’s wild, wise, and deeply rooted in India’s spiritual soil.

📍 Location and Accessibility

• District: Junagadh, Gujarat

• Nearest City: Junagadh (~5 km)

• Nearest Railway Station: Junagadh Junction

• Nearest Airport: Rajkot (~100 km) or Diu (~150 km)

• By Road: Well-connected via NH8E and state highways

The park is located near the historic Uparkot Fort and the base of the Girnar Hill pilgrimage trail, making it ideal for combining wildlife and heritage tourism.

🦁 Why Visit Girnar Nature Safari Park?

1. Wildlife in a Sacred Landscape

Girnar is home to over 50 free-ranging Asiatic lions, along with leopards, hyenas, jackals, wild boars, and deer. The park’s three-hour guided safari offers high chances of sightings in a semi-wild, ecologically balanced zone.

2. Spiritual Backdrop

The safari unfolds in the shadow of Mount Girnar, which hosts:

• Jain temples dating back to the 3rd century

• Hindu shrines like Dattatreya Paduka and Amba Mata Temple

• Buddhist relics and meditation caves

This fusion of nature and spirituality makes Girnar a rare destination where wildlife meets worship.

3. Eco-Conscious Design

Girnar Nature Safari was created to ease pressure on Gir National Park while preserving biodiversity. It features:

• Controlled safari routes

• Interpretation centers

• Conservation education programs

🚙 Safari Experience: What to Expect

Safari Types:

• Gypsy Safari: 6-seater open jeeps with trained guides

• Bus Safari: Available for larger groups and budget travelers

Duration:

• ~2.5 to 3 hours per safari round

Timings:

• Morning: 6:30 AM – 9:30 AM

• Evening: 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
  (Closed on Wednesdays)

Entry Fees (approximate):

Online booking is available via the Gujarat Forest Department portal.

🐅 Wildlife Highlights

• Asiatic Lions: Often seen resting under trees or patrolling the terrain

• Leopards: Elusive but occasionally spotted in early morning safaris

• Hyenas and Jackals: Scavengers that add ecological balance

• Herbivores: Chital, sambar, nilgai, and wild boars

• Birdlife: Peacocks, eagles, parakeets, and migratory species

The park’s varied topography—from rocky outcrops to forested valleys—enhances the safari experience.

🛕 Cultural and Spiritual Add-ons

1. Girnar Hill Pilgrimage

• Steps to Summit: ~10,000 steps to reach the highest temple

• Jain Temples: Neminath Temple, Ambika Temple, and others

• Hindu Shrines: Dattatreya Temple, Bhavnath Mahadev

2. Uparkot Fort

• Ancient fort with Buddhist caves, stepwells, and panoramic views

3. Bhavnath Fair

• Held during Maha Shivratri, this fair blends mysticism, music, and local crafts

These sites make Girnar ideal for multi-interest travelers—from pilgrims to photographers.

🧭 Suggested Itinerary: Girnar + Junagadh Circuit (3 Days)

Day 1:

• Arrive in Junagadh

• Visit Uparkot Fort and Girnar temples

• Evening Bhavnath Mahadev darshan

Day 2:

• Morning Girnar Nature Safari

• Lunch at forest lodge

• Visit Interpretation Center and local markets

Day 3:

• Optional second safari

• Drive to Sasan Gir (~60 km) or Somnath (~90 km)

This itinerary blends wildlife, heritage, and spirituality in a compact circuit.

🏨 Where to Stay

Budget:

• Hotel Sapphire

• Girnar Guest House

Mid-Range:

• Leo Resort Junagadh

• Hotel Indralok

Luxury:

• The Fern Gir Forest Resort (Sasan Gir extension)

• Woods at Sasan

Many hotels offer pilgrim-friendly amenities and safari coordination.

🌿 Responsible Travel Tips

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

• Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting temples

• Avoid Plastics: Carry reusable bottles and eco-friendly bags

• Support Local: Buy crafts and snacks from Junagadh’s bazaars

🎉 Best Time to Visit

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

• 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 Asiatic lions

• Pilgrims: Combine with Girnar temple trek

• Families: Safe, short safaris with cultural add-ons

• Photographers: Dramatic landscapes and diverse fauna

• Eco-Tourists: Learn about conservation and sustainable tourism

🧳 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

Girnar Nature Safari Park is more than a wildlife destination—it’s a spiritual and ecological sanctuary. It offers a rare chance to witness the regal Asiatic lion in a setting that’s both sacred and scenic. Whether you’re tracing ancient pilgrimage routes, photographing elusive leopards, or simply enjoying the forest’s quietude, Girnar invites you to experience Gujarat’s wild soul with reverence and wonder.