Wildlife, Nature & Eco Tourism

Wildlife & National Parks

Gujarat is one of India's top wildlife destinations, offering a variety of national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and marine reserves. From the majestic Asiatic lions of Gir to the wild asses of the Rann of Kutch, from birdwatching at Nal Sarovar to marine life at Jamnagar, Gujarat is a paradise for wildlife lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.

Here’s a list of the best wildlife destinations in Gujarat for an unforgettable jungle safari experience!

 1. Gir National Park – The Last Home of Asiatic Lions

 Location: Junagadh District
 Best For: Jeep Safaris, Wildlife Photography

✅ Why Visit?
✔️ The only place in the world where Asiatic Lions can be seen in the wild.
✔️ One of India’s best-managed national parks, home to rich biodiversity.
✔️ Thrilling jeep safaris to spot lions, leopards, and other wildlife.

 Wildlife to Spot:
✔️ Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Striped Hyenas, Sloth Bears, Jackals.
✔️ Over 300 species of birds, including Pygmy Woodpecker & Crested Serpent Eagle.

 Best Activities:
✔️ Jeep Safari (Morning & Evening) – Best way to spot lions.
✔️ Devalia Safari Park – A fenced eco-tourism zone.

 Best Time to Visit: October – June (Best sightings from March – May).
 Safari Cost: ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 per jeep (max 6 people).
 How to Reach: 2-hour drive from Rajkot.

 Tip: Book safaris in advance through the official Gir National Park website.

 2. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary – The Birdwatcher’s Paradise

 Location: Near Ahmedabad
 Best For: Birdwatching, Boat Safaris

✅ Why Visit?
✔️ Largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat.
✔️ Home to over 250 species of migratory birds.
✔️ Serene lake with boat safaris to observe rare birds.

 Birds to Spot:
✔️ Greater Flamingos, Pelicans, Cranes, Painted Storks.
✔️ Siberian Cranes, Herons, Egrets, and many more.

 Best Activities:
✔️ Boat Safari – Best way to spot birds.
✔️ Nature Walks & Photography.

 Best Time to Visit: November – February (Peak bird migration season).
 Boat Safari Cost: ₹300 – ₹1,000 per person.
 How to Reach: 1-hour drive from Ahmedabad.

 Tip: Visit early morning (5 AM – 7 AM) for the best bird sightings!

 3. Wild Ass Sanctuary – Little Rann of Kutch

 Location: Rann of Kutch
 Best For: Unique Wildlife Safaris, Desert Landscapes

✅ Why Visit?
✔️ The only place in India where the endangered Wild Ass (Ghudkhur) is found.
✔️ Vast salt desert landscapes, perfect for photographers & offbeat travelers.
✔️ Rare migratory birds, including flamingos & pelicans.

 Wildlife to Spot:
✔️ Indian Wild Ass, Desert Fox, Striped Hyena.
✔️ Greater Flamingos, Cranes, Raptors, and other migratory birds.

 Best Activities:
✔️ Jeep Safari in the Rann of Kutch.
✔️ Birdwatching & Photography.

 Best Time to Visit: October – March.
 Safari Cost: ₹3,500 – ₹5,000 per jeep.
 How to Reach: 2-hour drive from Ahmedabad.

 Tip: Visit during the Rann Utsav for a mix of wildlife & cultural experiences.

 4. Marine National Park – India’s First Marine Sanctuary

 Location: Jamnagar
 Best For: Marine Wildlife, Snorkeling, Island Exploration

✅ Why Visit?
✔️ India’s first marine national park, home to coral reefs & marine life.
✔️ Best place for snorkeling, shallow water exploration, and island visits.
✔️ Unique opportunity to walk on the ocean bed during low tide.

 Marine Life to Spot:
✔️ Dolphins, Coral Reefs, Starfish, Octopuses, Crabs.
✔️ Rare Dugongs (Sea Cows) & Green Sea Turtles.

 Best Activities:
✔️ Snorkeling & Marine Walks.
✔️ Visit Pirotan Island & Narara Island.

 Best Time to Visit: November – March.
 Entry Fee: ₹300 per person, Snorkeling ₹1,500.
 How to Reach: 1-hour drive from Jamnagar.

 Tip: Plan your visit during low tide for the best marine walk experience!

 5. Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary – A Hidden Wildlife Treasure

 Location: Banaskantha District
 Best For: Wildlife Photography, Eco-Tourism

✅ Why Visit?
✔️ One of the few places in India to spot the Sloth Bear.
✔️ Dense green landscapes, perfect for nature walks.
✔️ Ideal for wildlife photography & eco-tourism.

 Wildlife to Spot:
✔️ Sloth Bears, Leopards, Hyenas, Jackals.
✔️ Indian Peafowl, Grey Junglefowl, and other migratory birds.

 Best Activities:
✔️ Jungle Safari & Nature Walks.
✔️ Photography & Birdwatching.

 Best Time to Visit: November – March.
 How to Reach: 3-hour drive from Ahmedabad.

 Tip: Visit early morning or late evening for the best wildlife sightings.

 Summary – Best Wildlife & National Parks in Gujarat

 Why Visit Gujarat’s Wildlife Parks?

✅ Home to rare species like Asiatic Lions, Wild Ass & Dugongs.
✅ Perfect for adventure seekers, photographers & nature lovers.
✅ A mix of desert safaris, birdwatching, marine life & jungle safaris.