Apart from its stunning culture and architecture, Gujarat is also home to a great biodiversity. This location is ideal for nature lovers and animal lovers since it has a lot of biodiversity, sanctuaries, and national parks. Here, you may see some of the most famous animals in the nation. From Asiatic Lions to beautiful Blackbucks, this place offers everything you look for. Located at the outskirts, these wildlife sanctuaries of Gujarat offer the best environment, for wetlands, dense forest, hills and grasslands. Here is a list of some of the famous wildlife sanctuaries in Gujarat, which can give you an unforgettable experience
1. Gir National Park – The Kingdom of the Asiatic Lion
Situated in the Junagadh District of Gujarat, Gir National Park is the only sanctuary in the world where you can find Asiatic lions roaming freely in the forest. Covering around 1412 sq km of area, this forest also offers you a diverse range of plant species. Other than lions, you can witness crocodiles, antelopes, jackals and more than 300 species of Birds. This is not just a land full of animals, it is like experiencing the raw form of nature. Here are some of the key details that will help you while visiting Gir National Park:
Safari Details:
Timings:
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- Mid-Morning: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Fees:
- Indian Nationals: ₹800 (Weekdays), ₹1000 (Weekends)
- Foreign Nationals: ₹4800 – ₹7000
- Jeep Safari: ₹5200 (Indian) | ₹15700 (Foreigner)
*Book your safaris well in advance online, especially during peak season (December–March)*
2. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary – A Wetland Wonderland
Near Ahmedabad, Nal Sarovar is among the most beautiful bird sanctuaries in Gujarat. Attracted by the mild weather and the perfect conditions of the sanctuary, migrating birds in flocks travel from great distance. Bird species in the refuge include herons, storks, flamingos, spoonbills, and pelicans. The dawn over Nal Sarovar lake is well known as well. Hence, it is a must not to miss out on the sun appearing over the lake if you are in the area. Here are some of the basic details you really must be aware of.
Details:
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: November to February
What to Bring: Binoculars, camera, sun hat, and water bottle
3. Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary – A Hidden Wilderness
This sanctuary is located in the Dahod District of Gujarat and is commonly known for its Sloth Bear. This place covers around 55.65 sq km. of land. The hilly terrain makes this place perfect for sloth bears and other animal kinds. Other than Sloth bears, here you can witness various wildlife species like hyenas, civets, langurs, porcupines, and various birds and butterflies. If you are more into trekking, then this place is perfect for you. The offbeat location, Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary, is made of forest trails and bear sightings, making it perfect for trekkers.
Why Visit?
- High chance of spotting sloth bears
- Dense forest ideal for trekking
- Peaceful and less crowded than other sanctuaries
4. Thol Bird Sanctuary – Where Wetlands Whisper
Located 25 kilometers from Ahmedabad and in the district of Mehsana, this place is an unpopular yet serene Bird sanctuary. Thol Bird Sanctuary is encircled by an artificial lake which was created in the year 1912. Originally, this lake’s principal goal was to control irrigation systems; nevertheless, because of its ability to attract migrant birds, it became a bird sanctuary in 1988. Resting site for numerous migrating birds including sarus cranes, spoonbills, flamingos, etc., this 700 hectare stretch of wetland is quite vital for the wildlife of the region.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
Best Months: October to March
5. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary – Nature’s Quiet Retreat
Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in Panchmahal District and covers approximately 130 sq km of land. It is a beautiful mixture of deep forest and hill formations that provide a thrilling adventure to the tourists. Additionally, you will also find a water body where many animals drink and that supports a wide range of animal species. Jambughoda sanctuary shelters various species like a profusion of avifauna, the hyena, the wild boar, the jackal, etc. The tribal village and the cyclic nature of this place are the unique features of Jambughoda that set one apart from the other wildlife resorts in Gujarat.
Things to Do:
- Trekking and nature walks
- Stay in forest guesthouses
- Visit the nearby Champaner-Pavagadh UNESCO site
6. Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar – Grace in the Grasslands
In Bhavnagar district lies Velavadar, a unique national park that conserves India’s disappearing grassland ecosystem. Spread over 34 sq km, it is home to one of the largest populations of blackbucks in India. The sight of herds leaping across the golden grasses is breathtaking.
The Blackbuck National park also shelters Indian wolves, striped hyenas, and lesser floricans. Wetland areas draw flamingos, cranes, and harriers, especially between October and March.
Why It’s Unique:
- Rare grassland ecosystem
- Excellent blackbuck and bird sightings
- Great for landscape and wildlife photography
7. Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary – The Feathered Paradise
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary is located only 10 km away from Jamnagar and is a naturally beautiful Ramsar site that has an endangered population of freshwater lakes, salt marshes, and mangroves. The place, which is situated on an area of over 600 hectares, is home to more than 300 bird species, among which are pelicans, ibises, ducks, and eagles. Bird-watching through the binoculars of the watchtower is a completely different thing, being one of the most admirable things in Gujarat.
Visitor Info:
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fees:
- Adults: ₹30 | Students: ₹10 | Foreigners: ₹50
- Camera: ₹200 | Two-wheeler: ₹20 | Four-wheeler: ₹100
How to Reach:
- By Air: Jamnagar Airport (11 km)
- By Train: Jamnagar Railway Station (15 km)
Travel Tips for Sanctuary Visitors
- October to March for pleasant weather and wildlife activity
- Mornings offer the best chance to see animals and birds
- Carry binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, a cap, and drinking water
- Wear muted colors and comfortable shoes for walking or trekking
- Follow all forest rules, no feeding animals, no plastic, no loud noise
Are you looking forward to visiting more sanctuaries?
Come visit Udaipur and explore its beauty. Other than wildlife parks and Bird sanctuaries, the natural habitat that it carries makes a perfect place for migratory birds and makes its lake more beautiful. During winter, Pichola Lake and Badi Lake get filled with several migratory birds, offering the most beautiful view. Worried about the stay option in Udaipur? Let me take you to Goya Hills, A 3BHK villa in Udaipur that offers you a staycation closest to nature. Along with spacious rooms, lush green gardens and 24/7 services, this place also offers in room jacuzzi, making a complete relaxation. To know more or book a villa, give us a call at + 91 9024082177