11 Indian Wildlife Experiences Beyond Tiger Safaris

2. Asiatic lion safaris — Gir National Park (Gujarat)

Gir National Park is the only place on Earth with free-roaming Asiatic lions in significant numbers, and that makes any safari here a rare experience. The park’s dry deciduous forest opens into scrub and grassland where lions hunt in family prides. The best months to visit are October through March when mornings are crisp and sightings are frequent. Travelers from North America typically fly into Ahmedabad and then take a roughly four-hour drive or a short regional flight to Diu or Diu–Bhavnagar area, followed by a transfer to Sasan Gir. Safari bookings through the Gujarat Forest Department are straightforward, but do reserve early for popular gates. Accommodations range from comfortable resorts to quaint homestays that showcase Gujarati food and culture. Safari vehicles are closed and comfortable for elders and families, but rough tracks can jostle small children. Local conservation efforts include community-run cattle compensation and predator monitoring, which have helped reduce conflict and improve coexistence. Your visit can support these initiatives by choosing licensed guides, staying in community-friendly lodges, and asking about conservation fees that directly help local programs.