Places to Visit in Sasan Gir : The Hidden Kingdom of Asiatic Lions 🦁🌳

Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Indian state of Gujarat lies a place of mesmerizing natural beauty and unparalleled wildlife diversity—Sasan Gir. This haven of wilderness is renowned as the last abode of the majestic Asiatic lions, a species teetering on the brink of extinction. Apart from Asiatic lions, there are many Tourist Places in Sasan Gir located in this hidden kingdom. Le’s explore its rich biodiversity, cultural significance, and the tireless efforts to conserve this precious heritage. In this article, you will get everything you know about Sasan Gir, and all the places to Visit in Sasan Gir.

A Royal Introduction: Asiatic Lions 🦁

The Asiatic lion (Panthera leo persica) stands as a symbol of strength, power, and resilience. Thousands of years ago, lions lived in many countries across Asia. Lions were found in many parts of Africa as well as India. Year after year, lions were hunted indiscriminately. As a result, the sound of sabers in countries from Italy to Pakistan stopped forever. Today, only 27 of Africa’s 54 countries have lion populations, and only 7 African countries have 1,000 or more lions. Talking about India, there was once a large population of lions in the provinces of Punjab, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, etc.

Unlike their African counterparts, these regal creatures are slightly smaller in stature and adorned with a distinctive fold of skin along their bellies. Once widespread throughout Asia, their population dwindled drastically, pushing them to the brink of extinction. Sasan Gir, a dry deciduous forest interspersed with grasslands, now stands as their last refuge, offering a glimpse into their royal lives. Today, the residence of lions in India has been limited to Gujarat, and they have only one address in Gujarat as well.

Cultural Significance and Conservation of Asiatic Lions 🏞️

In the latter part of the eighteenth century and the beginning of the nineteenth century, the English Lat Sahebs and some Raja-Maharajas killed several lions in Gir in the name of hunting. As a result, the population of that animal was reduced to only 13 by 1913. The existence of the lion was on the verge of extinction in India, but thanks to the then Nawab of Junagadh, Mahabat Khan, who imposed a timely ban on lion hunting, lion numbers stopped declining.

For the first time, the King of the Forest became safe in the forest. Since the Government of India declared the Gir area a sanctuary in 1965, the population of Asian lions in Gir has reached around 600.

Beyond its ecological marvels, Sasan Gir holds profound cultural importance. The local Maldhari (shepherds) community, with their traditional grazing practices, coexists with the wildlife in a manner that is both sustainable and symbiotic. This unique relationship between humans and nature paints a picture of harmonious cohabitation.

However, the conservation of the Asiatic lions has been a formidable challenge. Efforts led by the Gujarat Forest Department, NGOs, and wildlife enthusiasts have been pivotal in ensuring the survival of these magnificent beasts. Robust anti-poaching measures, habitat preservation, and community engagement have collectively formed a safety net, shielding the lions from the precipice of extinction.

A Quick Look:

Category	Information
Location	Sasangir, Gujarat, India
Google Location	Sasangir on Google Maps
Famous For	Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time to Visit	October to June (Steer clear during the monsoon madness)
Climate	Think tropical vibes – hot and dry, baby!
Wildlife	Get ready for Asiatic lions, leopards, crocs, and a bird extravaganza!
Entry Fee	Prices vary, so check ’em out for both desi and international explorers
Safari Timings	Morning: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM, Afternoon: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (because lions gotta nap too)
Accommodation	Take your pick – resorts, lodges, and cozy guesthouses await!
Local Cuisine	Dive into a Gujarati thali, munch on Khaman, and savor the Dhokla goodness
Transportation	Zoom in via Diu Airport (around 100 km away), hop on a train to Junagadh (approximately 60 km away), or hit the road with taxis aplenty
Language	Speak the local lingo – Gujarati, Hindi, and English should do the trick
Currency	It’s all about the Indian Rupee (INR)
Safety Tips	Play it cool on safaris, stick to the trails, and follow the wildlife rules – safety first, amigo!
Local Etiquette	Respect the traditions and customs – be a good vibes ambassador
Emergency Numbers	For police, dial 100; for medical emergencies, ring up 108 – stay safe out there!

 

How to reach Sasan Gir:

Sasan is a very small village in Junagadh district with a population of one and a half to two thousand. The forest of Gir is spread over one and a half thousand square kilometers, and the habitat of the lion is in that vast area. But around Sasan village, there are rivers, canals, flat plains, and grassy areas where lions can be seen easily.

The easiest way to reach Sasan is via Junagadh, from where the distance to Sasan is approximately 60 km. Sometimes tourists come to Gir through Diu or Somnath. The distance from Diu to Sasan is about 100 kilometers. After leaving Diu, Sasan can be reached via Kodinar and Talala. There are more ways to reach Sasan from Diu. But other roads pass through forests and countryside. Unfamiliar travelers should avoid that route. Sasan can be reached from Somnath via Talala. This distance is around 40 kilometers.

How to book tickets for Sasan Gir:

Over the past few years, Gujarat’s tourism department has been promoting lion watching extensively, which has increased the number of tourists coming to see the lion in its natural habitat. The forest department had already selected Sasan as a lion sight years ago. If the Forest Department had not opened an office called ‘Singh Sadan’ there, no one would have known Sasan like thousands of villages in Gir.

If you want to visit the Gir Sanctuary and the Gir National Park spread over two and a half square kilometers within it, you have to go to the ‘Sinh Sadan’ of Sasan and get a permit from there; now the permit is issued online as well. For this, one has to go to the https://girlion.gujarat.gov.in/ website and select the ‘Gir Jungle Trail’ option. Note a special thing here: if you search words like ‘Gir’, ‘Lion Safari’, and ‘Sasan’ in Google, you will find a number of websites. But all except https://girlion.gujarat.gov.in belong to private tour operators.

Some websites are in the name of Gir National Park but are actually operated by private companies from Delhi. Booking will also be done through such a website, and lion watching will also be done on the basis of booking, but the cost will be very high. Also, many of these websites will not show a cheap option like Devaliya Park but force tourists to pay expensive prices.

The government has designated a total of 3 places to see Asiatic lions, out of which two are Sakari Park and one is National Park. Most tourists prefer to visit the National Park itself.

There are two reasons behind this choice:

(1) The National Park has been heavily promoted by the Tourism Department, so everyone believes that the main focus of ‘Sinh darshan’ is the only National Park.

(2) Many tourists do not know that there are places other than Sasan to see lions in Gir Forest. Sasan is the only official gateway to the Gir Forest, so it’s no wonder tourists flock there.

Charges and Bookings for Lion Watching:

The Gujarat government has decided the key to forest tourism. Holiday and other-day charges are different. Generally, if a tourist group has to hire the whole vehicle, one safari vehicle can accommodate six people, and in addition, one child from 3 to 12 years old can be included. Safari vehicles have guides along with tourists. Often, the driver acts as a guide. The forest department officials already present in the forest are constantly transmitting information about where the lions are, how many there are, in which direction they are going, etc. through wireless. It is on the basis of this information that the driver-guide takes his vehicle further along the jungle route.

Charges for 1 to 6 persons in Gir National Park are fixed at Rs. 800 to Rs. 1,000. Consequently, whether a traveler goes alone or takes five more people with him, the fixed charge does not change. In addition, gypsies (a vehicle) are subject to a Rs. 1,700 charge. The forest cannot be entered without a gypsy. Fee of Rs. 400 also mandatory paid to guides. Thus, if a group of six people goes sightseeing in Gir National Park, it will cost Rs. 2,900 to Rs. 3,100, for a total cost of about Rs. 500 per head. Some of the country’s high-profile Tiger National Parks cost much more to see tigers. Sasan Gir is thus relatively cheap.

 

 

The cost of seeing lions in Devalia-Ambardi is even lower than in Sasan’s Gir National Park. Devalia Safari Park is tens of kilometers away from Sasan. While going from Junagadh to Sasan, just before Sasan, the road diverges to Devalia Safari Park on the right. Another safari park is located at Ambardi village near Dhari. A certain area of ​​forest enclosed by a wire fence is called Sakari Park. Devaliya-Amberdi are such areas, wherever the lioness roams freely like a real forest.

The park can be visited by bus or gypsy. But mostly tourists prefer Bus Yatra. Lions can be seen very easily from buses with large windows and limited seats. Bus ticket per person is Rs. 150 to Rs. 190, while for gypsies (as calculated above), it is Rs. 500 per head. Booking for lion watching at Devalia Safari Park can be done online at https://girlion.gujarat.gov.in website. After visiting this website, select the DIZ-Devalia Safari option and pay the booking amount.

A printout of the online booking must be presented at the ‘Sinh Sadan’ office on the appointed day of the safari. A bus or gypsy is allotted according to the booking. The safari begins in Devalia somewhat dramatically. Just like in the 1993 film Jurassic Park, the giant gate opens, and then Alan Grant and his team enter the jungle. Here,  one enters the jungle after crossing two giant gates one after the other. As the bus or gypsy moves along the raw forest path, wildlife like leopards, sabers, wild boars, antelopes, and foxes starts appearing. If the luck is strong, the panther too! But seeing a lion is a 100 % guarantee.

Timings:

Devalia Safari Park is open on days except Wednesdays, and lion viewing is conducted for three hours in the morning and three hours in the afternoon. By five in the evening, the safari is over. A trip to Sasan Gir National Park may take two to two and a half hours, while a trip to Devalia can be completed in an hour or so. Devalia Safari Park has gained immense popularity, as lion sightings are guaranteed even in this slightly short time. Statistics of 3,000 tourists visiting Devalia Park in a day have also been recorded. Of course, the crowd is at festivals; it’s not so much fun on normal days.

The Enchanting Biodiversity of Sasan Gir 🌳

Beyond the charismatic Asiatic lions, Sasan Gir is a treasure trove of biodiversity. The diverse ecosystem supports a myriad of species, both flora and fauna, creating a delicate balance that is nothing short of awe-inspiring. From graceful leopards and elusive jungle cats to the vibrant avian life soaring through the skies, every corner of this sanctuary pulsates with the rhythm of the wild.

Gir is the abode of lions, but it is not its only identity. There are more than 400 types of trees, about 300 types of birds and many other living things such as Chital (Blackbuck), Nilgai, Antelope, Fox, Python, Snakes, Crocodiles etc. But most tourists come to Gir with the mind set of seeing lions. Hence they do not pay attention to other animals and birds.

Indeed, the forest of Gir itself is a sight to behold. It is unique in all of India. Thus, according to the definition of forest experts, it is not a forest; it is a forest. In the language of the forest account, it is called biographical zone 4. Unlike a tiger, a lion is not used to living in a dense forest, it needs an open environment. Hence, in monsoons, when the Gir forest is in full bloom, lions prefer to spend more time on the road.

Some tourist spots can also be visited after or before enjoying the lions, leopards, other animals, and birds in Gir Forest itself.

Other options for Lion Safari:

Apart from Devaliya (in October 2017), another safari park has been set up in Ambardi Forest near Dhari. Some lions and wild animals are kept in a confined area between wire fences in the park of about four square kilometers. Initially, the forest department kept two female lions named ‘Shailja’ and ‘Anamika’ and a male lion named ‘Gyan’ here. Out of them, Shailaja gave birth to some lion cubs here. Like Devaliya, in Ambardi too, tourists are taken on safari in a closed bus as lions are freely moving.

It is strictly forbidden to get off the bus or stick your hand or head out of the window. Singh Darshan is held in Ambardi between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. The park is closed on Tuesdays. Bus ticket rate per person is Rs. 150 to Rs. 3,190, but the online booking of Ambardi Park tickets has not yet started. Prevera tickets can be purchased by arriving at the park.

After the grand success of Sasan and Devalia-Amberdi Safari Parks, the Forest Department is now planning to set up a fourth Lion Viewing Point at Junagadh. Two dozen lions live in Girnar Forest, adjacent to Junagadh. In Junagadh’s Bhavnath or Bilkha Road area, lions are seen several times at night, so another Lion Sakari Park is being planned in Junagadh.

The area of ​​the Gir sanctuary is fifteen hundred square kilometers, but the Vanarajas have already encroached on that area. At last count, about 40% of Gir’s lions roam in a total area of ​​22,000 square kilometers. Lions have also reached the coastal areas and are also found on the outskirts of urban areas like Gondal. More than 1,000 villages in Gir have been reported to be frequented by lions. Most of the villagers have started reporting the lion’s presence.

Precautionary Measures About Sasan Gir:

But on the other hand, due to the regular presence of lions in rural areas, there have started to be private lion shows, which are illegal as well as dangerous. There are many villages whose fields are frequented by lions. Hence, some people in or around the village organize lion shows by tempting tourists to show them lions. Enthusiastic tourists succumb to the temptation and spend good money.

Many go out for lion sightings in the dark of night. It is illegal to do so. Also, there is a danger to life in it. The lions, who mostly sit on the roost at night, should not be disturbed in any way. Just as it is illegal to go to a private lion show, it is also against the law to park or get out of a vehicle on certain roads that pass through the Gir Sanctuary. On many roads in Gir Sanctuary, the forest department has written instructions that vehicles should not be parked on these roads. Even so, tourists stop to watch the wildlife while leaving the road.

The Avian Wonders 🦜

Sasan Gir isn’t just about the kings of the jungle; it’s also a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The forest reverberates with the calls of over 300 avian species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The critically endangered white-backed vulture and the colorful Indian pitta are just a couple of the avian gems that call Sasan Gir home.

While the main focus of Sasan Gir is on the lions, the region also boasts a diverse range of bird species, making it a hotspot for bird-watching enthusiasts. Here are some of the bird species that can be found in and around Sasan Gir:

Indian Peafowl:

The Indian peafowl, known for its magnificent plumage and vibrant display, is a common sight in the area.

Indian Vulture:

Although facing a decline in population, the Indian vulture can still be spotted in the region. Efforts are being made for their conservation.

Crested Serpent Eagle:

This majestic raptor can be seen soaring over the forests of Sasan Gir, hunting for its prey.

Changeable Hawk-Eagle:

Another prominent raptor species, the changeable hawk-eagle, can be observed circling the skies in search of prey.

Red-vented Bulbul:

A common and noisy bird, the red-vented bulbul is easily recognizable by its black crest and red patch on the vent.

White-bellied Minivet:

The striking white-bellied minivet adds a splash of color with its bright orange and black plumage.

 

Jungle Babbler:

These social birds are often seen foraging together in groups and are recognizable by their distinctive chattering calls.

Grey Hornbill:

The grey hornbill’s unique appearance, with a casque on its bill, makes it a fascinating bird to spot.

Paradise Flycatcher:

The male paradise flycatcher, with its long, flowing tail, is a captivating sight as it flits through the forest.

Malabar Whistling Thrush:

This melodious songbird can often be heard before it’s seen, as it sings its beautiful songs from the dense foliage.

 

Coppersmith Barbet:

Its distinct “tuk-tuk-tuk” call and vibrant plumage make the copper-smith barbet a delightful find.

Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher:

These small, elegant birds are known for their bright blue plumage and are frequently seen darting around.

Common Kingfisher:

The vibrant colors of the common kingfisher can be spotted near water bodies, where it hunts for fish.

Yellow-footed Green Pigeon:

These pigeons are known for their vibrant green coloration and are often seen feeding on fruits.

Indian Pitta:

A colorful and elusive bird, the Indian pitta can be spotted in the undergrowth, flashing its bright hues.

Flora and Fauna Dance 🌼🦌

The ecosystem of Sasan Gir is a living testament to the beauty of coexistence. Sasan Gir, situated in Gujarat, India, is home to a diverse range of vegetation types due to its varied landscapes, including deciduous forests, grasslands, and scrublands. The vegetation in Sasan Gir plays a crucial role in supporting the local wildlife, including the iconic Asiatic lions. Here’s an overview of the vegetation found in Sasan Gir:

Tulsishyam:

The place in the forest where there was once a grove of basil plants is now called Tulsishyam. Apart from the temple, the hot water tank attracts tourists. There is a temple of Lord Krishna here, and there is also a temple of Rukmani Devi on the nearby hill. There are steps leading up to the temple, which offer a panoramic view of the forest. It is a bit difficult to reach here if you don’t have your own vehicle. Overnight stays here are allowed, but for that, one has to contact the temple at the phone number 02875-290046.

Banej-Kankai:

A narrow and jammed road bisects the Gir forest. The famous pilgrimage places of Kankai and Banej are located on this road. There is a temple of Bangangeshwar Mahadev in Banej. The temple of Kankeshwari Devi is in Kankai. No overnight stay is allowed at either place; one has to return from there before the forest gates are closed in the evening. Forest department permission is required to visit both temples. The road is very rough and bumpy, but if you want to know the Gir, you must pass through.

 

 

Khodiyar Dam (Dhari):

Khodiyar Dam on the way to Ambardi Safari Park is a must-see. When there is water during the monsoon and for some months after that, water flows in the form of a waterfall in the downlands. Both Ambardi Park and Khodiyar Dam can be visited in a single day.

 

Jamzir Falls (Jamwala):

40 km from Sasan to the south lies Jamwala. The village is popular for its Jamzir Falls. Falling from a height of forty feets, it will be the highest waterfall in the region. This waterfall has its own loud roar, which can be heard from far away.

The Shingoda River, which originates from Gir, flows down from the flat land here. Where the river flows down, there is a jagged rock formation, so there is a clear sign to stay away from it. Of course, there have been cases where some people lost their lives among the adventurers who went ahead, ignoring that instruction. Regrettably, be it Jamzir Falls or Gir Forest, the instructions and warnings given by the forest department are constantly being violated by tourists.

It’s good to know before you plan your trip:

• Motorcars are the best means of traveling around Sasan and its surroundings. Train or bus taxis to Sasan can be done from Junagadh via railway.
•  Sasan has a forest department guest house where tourists can stay overnight. For details of hotels, resorts in Sasan see: https://girlion.gujarat.gov.in/. Keep in mind while choosing the resort that the gypsy carts going to visit the National Park and Devlia leave from ‘Singh Sadan’. matter hotel
• Except for the state highway of Sasan, many roads in Gir are closed by the forest department at 5 p.m. Singh Darshan in Sasan is closed from June 16 to October 15. Devalia Park, however, remains open.
• For more information, contact: Sasan Singh Sadan at 02877-28551041, Devaliya Park: 02877-285621. Ambardi Park: 0279742252500
• Address: Post Office SASAN GIR (SUB OFFICE), JUNAGADH, GUJARAT (GJ), India (IN), Pin Code:- 362135
• Click Here for Google Map Directions:

Unveiling the Future: A Conclusion 🌅

In conclusion, Sasan Gir stands as a testament to the resilience of life and the impact of concerted conservation efforts. The hidden kingdom of Asiatic lions not only offers a glimpse into the wild, but it also imparts valuable lessons on the importance of preserving our natural heritage. As travelers venture into this realm of enchantment, they contribute to a legacy that stretches far beyond their visit—a legacy of coexistence, protection, and the roaring triumph of life against all odds.

So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to Sasan Gir – where the echoes of majestic roars and the whispers of the wind through the trees create a symphony of nature that is nothing short of magical. 🌳🦁

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Frequently asked Questions:

Q: What makes Asiatic lions unique?
A: Asiatic lions are slightly smaller than their African counterparts and possess a distinctive belly fold. They are found primarily in the Gir Forest National Park of Sasan Gir.

Q: How many Asiatic lions are left in the wild?
The population of Asiatic lions has been steadily increasing, with around 500 individuals thriving in Sasan Gir and its surrounding areas.

Q: Can visitors see Asiatic lions up close?
Yes, Sasan Gir offers guided safaris that provide visitors with the opportunity to observe Asiatic lions and other wildlife species in their natural habitat.

Q: What other animals can be found in Sasan Gir?
A: Sasan Gir is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, jungle cats, spotted deer, sambar, and various bird species.

Q: How does the local community contribute to conservation?
The Maldhari community practices sustainable grazing, which promotes coexistence between humans and wildlife, helping to maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Q: Are there any endangered bird species in Sasan Gir?
Yes, Sasan Gir is a haven for birdwatchers, and it is home to endangered species such as the white-backed vulture and the Indian pitta.

Q: What conservation efforts are in place to protect Asiatic lions?
Conservation efforts include anti-poaching measures, habitat preservation, and community involvement to ensure the survival of Asiatic lions.

Q: Can I participate in conservation activities as a visitor?
Some eco-tourism initiatives offer visitors the chance to engage in conservation activities, contributing to the protection of wildlife and the environment.

Q: How can I plan a trip to Sasan Gir?
A: To plan a trip to Sasan Gir, you can book guided safaris through authorized channels, ensuring a responsible and memorable wildlife experience.

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