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WILDLIFE
Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
In the southwest of the peninsular state of Gujarat, lies the 116
square-mile Gir sanctuary created to protect the last wild population
of Lion outside the African regions. Since 1913 when the Lion population
over here fell drastically to just 20 animals, the numbers have
increased to around 300.
Flora in Gir National Park
The Gir National Park is a mixed deciduous forest with teak, flame
of the forest, some Acacia and Banyan trees. A distinct belt of
vegetation is found along the main rivers and streams. Species like
the Jambu, Karanj, Umro, Vad, Kalam, Charal, Sirus and Amli are
found here. These trees are mostly broad leaved and evergreen, giving
the area a cool shade and the moisture content.
Major Wildlife Attractions in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
 In
India the Lion population is spread across the states of Rajasthan,
Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. But
Gir is not just about Lions, the second most commonly found predator
in the Gir is Leopard. Infact, Gir national park is also home to
one of the largest Leopard populations in any park in India, and
especially in the hotter season they can sometimes be seen at night
close to the lodges.
Other animal residents of the Gir national park are Sambar Deer,
Chital Spotted Deer, Nilgai Antelope, Chowsingha Four-Horned Antelope,
Chinkara Gazelle, Wild Boar, Langur Monkey, Jackal, and Hyena and
numerous birds like Paradise Flycatcher, Bonneli's Eagle, Crested
Serpent Eagle, Woodpeckers Flamingo etc.
Other Attractions in Gir Wildlife Sanctuary
Jeep Safari : The best way to observe the big cats is, of
course, in their natural surroundings, at dawn and dusk, when they
are on the prowl. Wildlife viewing in the Gir's is best done, by
driving via jeep around the forest.
Coverage Area-1412.13 sq-kms.
Best Time to Visit
Gir Forest Wildlife enthusiasts can visit Gir park throughout the
year, but the best period to visit the Gir Sanctuary is between
the months of November and June.
How to Get there
Air : The nearest airport from Gir is Keshod 90-kms via
Veraval. Visitors can easily catch daily flights from Mumbai to
Keshod.
Rail : The nearest rail connection is the meter gauge rail
line of 395-kms from Ahemdabad.
Road : Gir is situated at a distance of 400-kms from Ahmedabad
via Rajkot, Junagadh and Mendarda. State Transport buses are easily
available from Junagadh and Veraval to Gir, between November and
June.
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