Gir National Park is a popular name in the list of forest reserves in India. It is located in Gujarat and is 64 km from Junagarh. It was established with a motive to protect the Asiatic lions. Since its establishment in 1965, the park houses 2,375 species of fauna. You can see here around 400 rare species of plants. Apart from Asiatic lions, you can also see many other rare animals such as pangolin, ruddy mongoose, ratel, civets and paradise flycatcher.
History
The purpose of establishing the sanctuary was to safeguard the lion population. In the year 1913, a sharp decline in the number of lions was observed. Gradually, the condition improved and today it houses many lions.
Attractions of Gir National Park
Wildlife
Besides Asiatic lions, there are around 210 leopards live within the forest area. You can also see animals like sambar, chowsingha, chinkara, woodpeckers, flamingos, nilgai and crested serpent eagles.
Flora
The forest has much to offer to those, who are the admirers of nature. It is a joint deciduous forest with acacia, teak and banyan trees. Tourists can also see distinguished belt of vegetation. It is found along the rivers and small streams of the area. Nature lovers can also see a variety of broad-leaved species like jambu, kalam, amli, vad and charal.
Jeep Safaris
Jeep safaris are the most favorite of many travelers, who are thrilled with the thought of a ride in the wilds. The permit is issued for this at the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge office. Viewing the roaming animals by jeep safari is a great fun.
Nalsarovar Lake and Sanctuary
The forest area also has this famous attraction, where you can see many birds like peacocks, bush quail, parrot, flamingo and pied woodpecker. You can also visit a temple of Lord Krishna there.
Lion Shows
The forest department takes initiatives to conduct the interesting lion shows, which are very popular among visitors. It is arranged on every Sunday. It offers tourists an opportunity to see the animals from a close range.
Time to Visit
Tourists can visit the park from November to June.
How to Reach there
By Air
Keshod is the nearest airport, 90-km via Veraval. Tourists can get regular flights from Mumbai to Keshod.
By Rail
The nearest railheads to Gir are Junagarh and Talala.
By Road
You can catch state transport buses, available from Junagarh and Veraval to the place.
Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is a heaven for the connoisseur of wildlife. It is the only place in India where you can see the Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. Apart from this, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Bandhavgarh Wildlife Sanctuary and Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary are the famous India Wildlife Sanctuaries.
No comments:
Post a Comment