Western India, India, Gujarat
Gir Wildlife Safari
Set off on a captivating safari into the Gir National Park, a sanctuary that has evolved into the last bastion for the endangered Asiatic lion since its establishment in 1965.
The heart of the park, a 259-sq-km core area declared a national park in 1975, serves as a haven for these majestic creatures and has a remarkable success story of lion conservation – numbers surged from less than 200 in the late 1960s to an impressive 674 in the 2020 census.
The park’s dense forests and rolling hills create a picturesque backdrop for an immersive safari experience. Traverse the undisturbed landscapes, keeping watch for the revered Asiatic lions and a diverse range of wildlife, including chital deer, four-horned antelopes, gazelles, crocodiles, and the elusive leopard. The park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts with over 300 species of endemic and migratory birds.
As the wildlife thrives, it’s important to acknowledge the human dimension – more than half of the sanctuary’s Maldhari herders have been resettled to address the delicate balance between livestock, antelopes, deer, and gazelles, coexisting with the lions and leopards. Approximately 1000 people still call the park home, contributing to the intricate ecosystem where their livestock accounts for a quarter of the lions’ diet. Explore the coexistence of nature and human life in this extraordinary sanctuary.
What you’ll do
- Discover the last refuge of the Asiatic lion, with numbers rebounding to 674 (2020 census)
- Explore 259 sq km of core national park terrain, rich with forests and hills
- Spot diverse wildlife, including leopards, chital deer, antelopes, gazelles, and crocodiles
- Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of over 300 endemic and migratory species
- Learn about the Maldhari herders’ coexistence with wildlife and the park’s conservation success
Gir National Park on the map
India
Rural Gujarat & Rajasthan
See three contrasting sides of India on this journey from vibrant Mumbai into Gujarat and on through rural Rajasthan. Gujarat sits mid-way between Mumbai and Rajasthan, and this itinerary incorporates both into the trip.
Set off on an adventure through Mumbai’s vibrant cityscape, delve into Gujarat’s historical treasures and sample its diverse cuisine. End your adventure in Udaipur, where lakes and palaces create an unforgettable backdrop.
Highlights
The White Rann
Stay in the cultural hub of Bhuj, and explore the surreal landscape of the White Rann
Kutch Wildlife Spotting
Go wildlife spotting in Kutch to see the endangered Indian Wild Ass
Lake Pichola Boat Trip
Take a scenic boat trip across Lake Pichola in the romantic city of Udaipur
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India
Gujarat In Depth
Go beyond the usual India routes on this 17-day adventure through Gujarat, a region where ancient civilisations, wildlife sanctuaries and traditional crafts still thrive. From the heritage streets of Ahmedabad to the stark beauty of the Rann of Kutch, this itinerary blends history, wildlife and cultural immersion. You’ll meet master artisans in Bhuj, witness blackbuck deer leaping through the grasslands of Velavadar, and step back in time at World Heritage sites like Patan and Modhera.
Highlights
Ahmedabad
Explore an array of astounding world heritage sights in Ahmedabad and beyond
Wildlife spotting
Spot impressive birds and wildlife like the Asiatic lion and blackbuck deer in Velavadar, Sasan Gir Park and the otherworldly Rann of Kutch
Artisan heritage
Contribute towards the preservation of an array of special traditional arts and crafts by visiting the artisan villages around Bhuj
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