Apart from the Asiatic lion, other wild attractions in the sanctuary are
Nilgai, Chinkara, Sambhar, Black Bucks, the four horned Antelope, Wild
Boar, crocodile, Indian Flying Foe, Grey Musk Shrew, Indian Hare, Pale
Hedgehog, Small Indian Mangoose, Small Indian Civet, Indian Pangolin,
Indian Porcupine, Ratel, Indian Fox and Jackal. The three smaller wildcats
- the Jungle Cat, Desert Cat and the Rusty Spotted Cat, also inhabit Gir
forest. The forest is also rich in bird life, and an estimated of 300
species are found inhabiting Gir National Park over the years, the most
common is the peafowl.
There are 6 routes in the park - the longest is 31km.
Some of the most popular routes for a drive are the Sasan-Kamaleshwar Dam, the Sasan-Kankai, the Sasan-Chodavdi and the Sasan-Tulsishyam routes.
You may occasionally be able to see lions with the help of tracker and
guide. The Gir forestry department provides jeeps and guides on a daily
basis.
 All
visitors to Gir are required to obtain entry permits from the Sinh Sadan
Forest Lodge Office. The permits cost Rs 15 for the first day, and Rs
7.50 for every subsequent day. Extra charges are levied for cameras and
for hiring vehicles: a jeep ride will cost about Rs 100 per person, and
still camera fees range from Rs 50 (for Indians) Guide charges are, respectively,
Rs 50.
The Gujarat State Tourism corporation offers a special
two day package tour to the Sasan Gir Sanctuary. The trip includes reception
at Keshod, the nearest airport (an 80 minute flight from Mumbai, and 90
km (56 miles) from sanctuary), accommodation at the forest Lodge, a sanctuary
tour, and a visit to Somnath.
Best Time to Visit
Even if Gir National Park is one of the hottest and most visited wildlife
reserves within India still the period one should visit this park is during
the months of Mid October-Mid June. November and February is the best
time for sighting the lions, who generally retire to the forest's interior
during the summer.
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