A Complete Guide to Booking the Best Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package

If you’re planning a wildlife adventure in India, few experiences match the thrill of spotting the majestic Asiatic lion in its only remaining natural habitat—Gir National Park in Gujarat. Covering over 1,400 square kilometers, the park is not only home to these regal predators but also boasts leopards, hyenas, crocodiles, over 300 species of birds, and a variety of flora and fauna. For the best experience, booking a well-curated Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package is essential.

This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know to book the ideal tour package—from choosing the right season and safari type to selecting the best accommodation and understanding permit processes.

Why Book a Tour Package for Gir National Park?

While it’s possible to plan the trip on your own, booking a Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package has several advantages:

• Hassle-Free Planning: Packages include safaris, permits, accommodation, transportation, and sometimes meals, saving you the stress of multiple bookings.
  
• Better Safari Slots: Tour operators often have priority access to better safari time slots.
  
• Expert Guidance: Packages often include local guides or naturalists who enhance the wildlife viewing experience.
  
• Customized Itineraries: Whether you’re a family, solo traveler, or wildlife photographer, you can find packages tailored to your interests and budget.
  

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking the Best Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package

1. Choose the Right Time to Visit

Gir National Park remains open from mid-October to mid-June. The best time for wildlife sightings, especially lions, is December to March, when the weather is pleasant and animals are more active.

Avoid the monsoon months (mid-June to mid-October) as the park remains closed for tourists.

2. Select the Ideal Duration

• 1N/2D: Quick trip with a single safari—suitable for budget travelers or weekend getaways.
  
• 2N/3D: Ideal for most tourists; includes 2 safaris and time to explore nearby attractions.
  
• 3N/4D or more: Recommended for wildlife photographers, researchers, or those seeking a relaxed vacation with multiple safaris and cultural add-ons.
  

3. Understand Safari Options

There are two main types of safaris included in most Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Packages:

• Gir Jungle Trail (Core Zone): Jeep safaris through the core forest area. This is where most lion sightings occur. Entry is restricted and requires permits.
  
• Devaliya Safari Park (Interpretation Zone): A fenced area offering guaranteed sightings of lions and other wildlife. Great for families or travelers short on time.
  

Pro Tip: Book packages that offer at least one core zone safari and one Devaliya Park visit for a complete experience.

4. Pick the Right Accommodation

Packages generally offer various stay options depending on your budget:

• Budget Hotels/Lodges: Basic amenities, usually within 5–10 km of Sasan Gir gate.
  
• Mid-Range Resorts: Comfortable stays with jungle-themed architecture and modern facilities.
  
• Luxury Resorts: High-end resorts offering premium services, private safaris, and wellness amenities.
  

Check for package deals that include meals, safari transfers, and cultural activities for added value.

What’s Typically Included in a Tour Package?

Most Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Packages include:

• Accommodation for the chosen duration
  
• One or more jeep safaris with guide and permits
  
• Entry tickets to Gir or Devaliya Safari Park
  
• Pick-up and drop from nearby railway stations (Junagadh, Veraval) or airports (Rajkot, Diu)
  
• Meals (varies by resort)
  
• Optional cultural or village tours
  

Always check the inclusions list carefully. Clarify if GST, camera charges, and transportation are extra.

Where to Book Your Package

You can book your Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package through:

• Authorized tour operators: Look for operators recognized by Gujarat Tourism or reputable travel platforms.
  
• Hotel/resort websites: Many properties near Gir offer in-house tour packages that bundle safaris and stays.
  
• Online travel portals: Websites like MakeMyTrip, Thrillophilia, and TripAdvisor list verified packages and reviews.
  
• Local travel agents: Especially useful if you’re combining your Gir visit with other destinations in Gujarat like Somnath, Diu, or Junagadh.
  

Add-Ons to Enhance Your Trip

Many packages offer optional activities you can include:

• Maldhari Village Visit: Learn how locals coexist with lions and explore their unique lifestyle.
  
• Bird Watching Tours: Early morning walks for spotting Indian eagle owls, storks, and raptors.
  
• Trip to Somnath Temple or Diu: Combine spiritual and beach tourism with your wildlife adventure.
  

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Carry valid ID proofs (originals) for safari permits.
  
• Book early, especially during peak season, as safari permits are limited.
  
• Dress in neutral colors during safaris—avoid bright clothing.
  
• Pack essentials: sunscreen, hat, binoculars, camera, water bottles, and insect repellent.
  
• Avoid plastic and loud noises during the safari to respect the environment.
  

How to Reach Gir National Park

• By Air: Nearest airports are Diu (110 km) and Rajkot (160 km).
  
• By Train: The closest railway stations are Junagadh, Veraval, and Somnath.
  
• By Road: Good connectivity from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Diu. Most packages include transfers.
  

Final Thoughts

Booking the right Gir National Park Wildlife Tour Package transforms a regular trip into an extraordinary wildlife adventure. Whether you’re captivated by the call of the wild, passionate about photography, or just seeking a family getaway with a difference, Gir offers it all.

With careful planning, attention to detail, and a reliable tour package, you’ll not only witness the grandeur of the Asiatic lion but also immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of Gujarat’s most famous national park. So, pack your bags and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience in Gir!