Planning Your Gir Jungle Safari

Everything you need to know before booking your safari permit, from timings to what to wear, so your visit to Gir National Park goes smoothly. A jungle safari is the main reason most travellers come to Sasan Gir, and a little planning goes a long way toward making the most of it.

Booking Your Permit

All Gir Jungle Trail and Gypsy Safari permits are booked online through the official Gujarat Forest Department portal at https://girlion.gujarat.gov.in/. Permits are limited per slot, so it's best to book a few days in advance, especially during the peak winter season.

Safari Timings

The Gir Jungle Trail runs in two seasons: winter (16th October to 28th/29th February) and summer (1st March to 15th June). Each day has three safari slots - early morning, mid-morning and afternoon. The park stays closed through the monsoon, from 16th June to 15th October. The smaller Devalia Safari Park stays open through most of the year, except on Wednesdays.

What To Wear And Carry

• Dull, earth-toned clothing - bright colours can alarm wildlife.
• Comfortable, closed shoes and a light jacket for early morning safaris, which can be chilly.
• A valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License or Voter's ID) - this is required at the gate.
• A stainless-steel water bottle - plastic and PET bottles are not allowed inside the park.
• Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens, if you have one.

A Few Reminders

Guests are asked to stay inside the vehicle at all times, keep noise to a minimum, and follow the guide's instructions closely. Sightings are never guaranteed - the forest has much more to offer than lions alone, from leopards and hyenas to over 300 species of birds.