If you are planning a trip to Gujarat’s famous Gir National Park to witness the majestic Asiatic lions but are concerned about safari bookings, time constraints, or budget, then Devalia Safari Park offers the perfect solution. Officially known as the Gir Interpretation Zone, Devalia Safari Park is a curated wildlife zone that provides an authentic Gir experience in a shorter duration with guaranteed sightings. Here is why exploring wildlife at Devalia Safari Park is a perfect alternative to Gir Safari.
What is Devalia Safari Park?
Devalia Safari Park, spread over 412 hectares, is a fenced interpretation zone developed by the Gujarat Forest Department to ease tourism pressure on the core area of Gir National Park. It replicates Gir’s ecosystem with grasslands, rocky terrains, and water bodies, offering a habitat to Asiatic lions, leopards, deer, antelopes, and a variety of birds.
While Gir Jungle Safari requires deeper entry into the forest, tracking skills, and sometimes luck for sightings, Devalia Safari Park ensures that visitors see wildlife with almost 100% certainty, making it ideal for those with limited time or first-time wildlife explorers.
Why Choose Devalia Safari Park Over Gir Jungle Safari?
1. Assured Lion Sightings
The biggest reason people visit Gir is to spot the Asiatic lion, and Devalia Safari Park offers exactly that without uncertainty. The lions roam freely within this secured zone, allowing visitors to observe them at close range in their natural habitat.
2. Time-Efficient Safaris
While Gir Jungle Safari takes around 3-4 hours including permit processes and the safari itself, Devalia Safari Park safaris last 30-40 minutes, making it ideal for travellers on tight schedules or those combining Somnath, Junagadh, and Diu in their Gujarat itinerary.
3. Budget-Friendly Experience
Devalia Safari Park is far more economical.
- Bus Safari tickets cost around INR 150 per Indian adult,
- Private gypsy safaris cost approximately INR 2800-3500 per vehicle, compared to higher fees for Gir Jungle Safari.
This affordability makes Devalia an excellent choice for families, students, and group travellers.
4. Safe and Comfortable
The fenced zone ensures safety while providing a real jungle feel. Bus safaris conducted by the forest department maintain high safety standards, making it suitable for children, elderly visitors, and those apprehensive about dense forest adventures.
Wildlife You Can See at Devalia Safari Park
Besides the iconic Asiatic lions, Devalia Safari Park is home to:
- Leopards
- Blue bulls (nilgai)
- Spotted deer and sambar deer
- Blackbucks
- Wild boars
- Peafowls and other bird species
This rich biodiversity, combined with the park’s open grasslands and scenic landscape, offers excellent photography and wildlife observation opportunities.
Types of Safaris Offered
1. Bus Safari
- Most popular and economical.
- Conducted in open or closed forest buses accommodating 20-25 people.
- Guides accompany the bus to explain wildlife facts and ensure safety.
2. Gypsy Safari
- Private vehicle safari ideal for photographers or small families.
- Limited slots and higher cost but offers flexibility and closer viewing.
Timings and Best Time to Visit
Devalia Safari Park Timings:
- Morning: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Afternoon: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Closed: Wednesdays (weekly holiday) and mid-June to mid-October (monsoon season).
Best time to visit: December to March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife is active. Summer (April-June) offers good sightings but can be hot, while the park is closed during the monsoon.
Booking Tickets
Tickets can be booked:
- Online through the Gujarat Forest Department website to secure your slot in advance.
- On the spot at Devalia Safari Park counter, though availability is not guaranteed during peak weekends or holidays.
Carry valid government ID proofs for ticket verification. Camera charges apply separately depending on your equipment.
What Makes Devalia Safari Park Unique?
- Interpretation Zone: Devalia is designed as an educational wildlife zone with information boards and guides explaining conservation efforts, making it enriching for students and families.
- Conservation Effort: It helps reduce tourist pressure on Gir’s core zones while promoting awareness about the endangered Asiatic lion.
- High Success Rate: Your chances of seeing wildlife, especially lions, are almost guaranteed, unlike Gir Jungle Safari where it often depends on luck and timing.
Tips for Visiting Devalia Safari Park
- Wear earth-toned clothes to blend with the environment.
- Follow all guidelines by forest staff and guides.
- Maintain silence to avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Carry water bottles, hats, and sunglasses especially during summer safaris.
- Ensure your camera is ready for quick captures, as wildlife sightings happen suddenly.
Final Thoughts
While Gir Jungle Safari remains a thrilling adventure for wildlife enthusiasts, Devalia Safari Park is a perfect alternative, offering a guaranteed glimpse of the majestic Asiatic lion and other wildlife in a safe, budget-friendly, and time-efficient way. Whether you are travelling solo, with family, or in groups, Devalia Safari Park ensures your Gir wildlife experience is fulfilling and memorable without the challenges of deep forest safaris.
So, on your next trip to Gujarat, make sure to include Devalia Safari Park in your itinerary to witness the grandeur of Gir’s ecosystem up close and take back memories of India’s royal wild inhabitants.
