Nestled in the foothills of the revered Girnar mountains near Junagadh, Girnar Nature Safari Park is becoming one of Gujarat’s most sought-after destinations for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. If you are planning a visit soon, here is everything you need to know about its timings, ticket prices, and what to expect for a seamless and memorable experience.
🕐 Safari Timings
Girnar Nature Safari Park operates two safaris daily – one in the morning and one in the evening – to provide the best chances of wildlife sightings when animals are most active.
- Morning Safari: 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM
- Evening Safari: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
These timings may vary slightly depending on the season. The park remains closed during the monsoon months (mid-June to mid-October) to ensure visitor safety and promote forest conservation.
👉 Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes early for entry formalities and to ensure you don’t miss the safari departure.
🎟️ Ticket Prices
The ticket prices for Girnar Nature Safari Park are structured based on visitor categories:
- Indian Visitors: ₹800 – ₹1000 per person, depending on the safari type and day of visit
- Foreign Visitors: ₹5600 per person
- Children below 5 years: Free entry
- Camera Charges: Additional ₹200-₹500 based on equipment
- Guide Fees: Usually included in ticket price or may be charged separately for special groups
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, as safari slots are limited and in high demand.
🐾 What to Expect During Your Visit
1. Asiatic Lion Safari
The highlight of Girnar Nature Safari Park is the Asiatic Lion Safari. Visitors can watch these majestic big cats roaming freely in their designated enclosures while remaining safe inside the safari vehicle. Seeing a lion pride up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travellers.
2. Leopard Safari
The park also features a Leopard Safari zone. Leopards are known for their elusive and stealthy nature. Observing them resting on tree branches or gracefully walking along the track is a treat for wildlife photographers and enthusiasts alike.
3. Herbivore Safari
This section houses deer, sambhar, blackbucks, and nilgai grazing peacefully amidst the forest landscape. It is ideal for families, children, and educational groups wishing to understand herbivore behaviour and forest ecology.
4. Bird Watching Opportunities
Girnar Nature Safari Park is home to a diverse range of birds, including peafowls, drongos, parakeets, eagles, and migratory species during winter. Early morning safaris provide the best chances to witness their activity and capture stunning photographs.
5. Interpretation Centre
The park also has an informative Interpretation Centre showcasing exhibits on local wildlife, flora, and ongoing conservation efforts. This is particularly beneficial for students and eco-tour groups keen on learning about the region’s biodiversity.
🧭 Duration of Safari
Each safari usually lasts 2 to 3 hours, including transit time along the dedicated safari routes and stops for animal sightings and photography.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Girnar Nature Safari Park is between November and March when the weather is pleasant, and visibility is clear. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season as the park remains closed and wildlife sightings are minimal due to dense foliage and rains.
📌 How to Reach Girnar Nature Safari Park
- By Air: The nearest airports are Rajkot (around 100 km) and Porbandar (approximately 113 km), both well connected to major cities in India.
- By Train: Junagadh Railway Station is just 8 km from the safari park, with daily trains from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Veraval.
- By Road: Regular buses and private taxis are available from Junagadh city, taking about 20-30 minutes to reach the park.
🛎️ Accommodation Options
There is no accommodation facility within Girnar Nature Safari Park. However, Junagadh city offers hotels, guesthouses, and resorts catering to all budgets, making it convenient for tourists to stay overnight and plan early morning safaris.
✅ Visitor Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Carry valid ID proofs such as Aadhar or Passport for entry verification.
- Wear comfortable cotton clothes in neutral earthy tones to blend with the forest environment.
- Avoid loud noises and sudden movements during safaris to avoid disturbing animals.
- Carry binoculars and cameras (without flash) for better wildlife viewing and photography.
- Stay hydrated and carry a water bottle, especially during daytime safaris.
- Listen carefully to your guide’s instructions for a safe and enriching experience.
- Do not litter or feed animals; maintain the sanctity of the forest.
🌳 Why You Should Visit Girnar Nature Safari Park
Girnar Nature Safari Park is more than just a safari destination. It offers a unique opportunity to observe the Asiatic lions, leopards, herbivores, and birds in their natural habitat, surrounded by the serene beauty of Girnar hills. For wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, students, and families, a visit to this park is a journey into the heart of Gujarat’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.
📝 Final Thoughts
Now that you know the timings, ticket prices, and what to expect at Girnar Nature Safari Park, plan your visit soon to experience Gujarat’s wildlife heritage like never before. From thrilling big cat sightings to peaceful herbivore safaris and breathtaking views of the Girnar ranges, this destination promises memories that will stay with you forever.
