Gir National Park Attractions - Tourist Places To Visit In Gir National Park

The Asiatic Lions are nowhere bred in the world other than in Gir National Park, Gujarat. It is believed that the Nawab of Junagadh was the one who protected these animals which were then only 13. This figure, however, seems controversial as per the later records.

The habitat and the environment of the forest make the place protected for these lions. These big Indian cats have become close to extinction as the rise of human population has turned most of their habitat to farmland. Animal lovers come here to have a look at this endangered sub-species of lion.

Though the Gir National Park in Gujarat is known to the world as the home of Asiatic Lion, the National Park also has many other animals of which some are the Indian Leopards, Sloth bears, Indian Cobras, Jungle cats, Indian Mongoose, Indian Palm civets, Ratels, etc.

Though there are some rare species including the rusty-spotted cats and desert cats, these are not found easily at the National Park. Some of the snakes found in the area are Russell’s vipers, saw-scaled vipers and common kraits. It also has a large population of marsh crocodiles and other reptiles which include star tortoise, soft-shelled turtle, monitor lizards and the Indian rock pythons.

The Pania Wildlife Sanctuary is an extension of the Gir National Park and those who visit the sanctuary may get to see the lions and leopards from the National Park roaming around in the area. The sanctuary, better known as Chanchai-Pania, was declared as a sanctuary in the year 1989 and preserves many endangered species of wildlife in it.

A drive through this region will give you sights of lions roaming around and other animals that play in their own world.

The land adjoining the Gir National Park was declared as the Mitiyala Wildlife Sanctuary in the year 2004. The area of 18.22 sq km, is a place where the lions and leopards are found at times enjoying their lives. Other endangered species of wildlife are also found here like the spotted deer and nilgai.

This is a great adventurous spot to learn about wildlife and nature. You can always expect a lion coming out of nowhere or a leopard passing by a distance. A ride through the forest is going to be a great time for adventure-lovers.