From Lions to Legacy: A Journey Through Gir and Junagadh

Gir National Park, nestled in the western state of Gujarat, India, is renowned for being the sanctuary of the majestic Asiatic Lion, also known as the Persian Lion. My fascination with lions began in childhood, thanks to the timeless allure of the cartoon classic, "The Lion King." Embarking on my first solo adventure in India after returning from Canada, I meticulously planned this trip two weeks in advance. The park is situated on the outskirts of Junagadh, in a quaint location called Sasan Gir.

The initial step in my journey was securing a National Park Permit online, which can be conveniently obtained through the park’s official website. A single permit grants entry to up to six individuals, costing around 1,000 rupees. Visitors can choose from three time slots: 6-9 am, 9-12 pm, and 12-3 pm. To maximize the chances of spotting lions, the early morning slot, from 6 to 9 am, is highly recommended.

Traveling from Surat to Junagadh presents a minor challenge as no direct trains connect the two cities. I opted for a combination of the Karnavati Express from Surat to Ahmedabad and the Somnath Express from Ahmedabad to Junagadh, a route I would suggest for travelers coming from Mumbai. The same trains serve the return journey, making it a convenient option.

Arriving in Junagadh early in the morning, as per the train schedule, I hopped into a rickshaw to reach the state transport bus stand. For those traveling with families, taxis are a viable alternative. I was fortunate to catch a bus to Sasan Gir almost immediately. The bus fare is about 40 rupees, and the journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. This timing makes it unlikely for travelers arriving by bus to catch the early morning safari slot.

The bus ride itself was an adventure, winding through a narrow road flanked by dense trees on either side. The darkness of the early morning enveloped the surroundings, with the bus’s headlights cutting through the blackness, casting a ghostly glow that illuminated the driver’s silhouette. Although the bus seemed a bit rickety, the eerie, nocturnal ride was an experience in its own right.

By the first light of dawn, I arrived at Sasan Gir. The weather was surprisingly mild. Since I had booked the 9 am slot and the reporting time was 8:30 am, I found myself with a couple of hours to spare. I used this time to explore the guest house within the Gir National Park’s office grounds, a charming place nestled among towering trees.

Guest Houses located near the office

 

Safari Ride through the Forest

As our safari journey unfolded, the vibrant wildlife of Gir National Park came to life around us. We encountered graceful deer grazing amidst the trees, a stunning array of birds flitting through the canopy, pelicans gliding over serene water bodies, and tiny rodents scurrying through the underbrush. The symphony of nature was enchanting, but the real thrill came toward the end of the safari. My guide motioned for me to stop and listen closely. Faintly, the powerful roars of a lion echoed through the forest, sending a shiver down my spine. We swiftly made our way toward the sound, and there, basking in his majesty, was a lion. He was perched atop a wooden log, nonchalantly licking his paws, completely at ease in his kingdom. It was a moment of pure awe and wonder, the kind that makes you feel truly alive. The entire safari experience was nothing short of surreal, leaving me exhilarated and humbled by the raw beauty of the wild.

After the safari, my driver dropped me off at the town center, where I decided to refuel with a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. Once my appetite was satisfied, I boarded the familiar bus back to Junagadh. Upon arriving, I hopped into a rickshaw and made my way to the Junagadh Zoo, eager to continue my exploration of this region's rich and diverse wildlife.

 

Leopard inside a cage at the Zoo

The zoo in Junagadh offers a captivating glimpse into the animal kingdom, showcasing a variety of fascinating creatures. Majestic white tigers prowled gracefully in their enclosures, while crocodiles basked lazily in the sun. I marveled at the slithering snakes and admired the vibrant plumage of golden pheasants and cranes, each more magnificent than the last. 

Next on my itinerary was Uparkot Fort, a historic stronghold dating back to the era of Chandragupta Maurya. As I approached, the ancient stone walls stood as a silent testament to the fort's storied past. Although parts of the fort lay in ruins, especially toward the back, the sense of history was palpable. While there wasn't much to explore around the fort itself, the view from the top was breathtaking. Standing on the elevated vantage point, I gazed out over the city, the sprawling skyline stretching out before me, blending the old with the new in a panorama that captured the essence of Junagadh.

Uparkot Fort from the front side 

 

My journey concluded with a visit to the Junagadh Museum, a treasure trove of the region's rich history. As a history enthusiast, I was eager to explore its offerings, even though cameras were not permitted inside, leaving me to soak in the experience with my own eyes. Stepping inside, I was both surprised and amazed by the museum’s extensive collection. Among the fascinating exhibits was an ancient copper plate, proudly displaying one of the earliest bilingual scripts, inscribed in both Sanskrit and Urdu—a true testament to the cultural confluence of the time.

The museum housed an impressive array of artifacts that vividly brought history to life. There were weapons that once belonged to the warriors of Junagadh, intricately designed furniture that spoke of regal lifestyles, and garments that had once adorned the rulers of this ancient land. Each piece told a story, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who had walked these grounds centuries before. As I wandered through the exhibits, I felt a deep connection to the past, a sense of awe for the rich heritage that has shaped this region's identity.