The Gir National Park is well known all over the world as the last habitat of the Asiatic lion. It is also among the major wildlife sanctuaries of north India, and a one of the most famous tourist places in Gujarat. The park is visited by a large number of tourists and helps the cause of tourism in Gujarat apart from conserving the lions. Touristplacesinindia.com offers online information about Sasangir that would help you plan your trip.
Fast Facts
| Total Area | 1412 square kms |
| Core Area | 259 square kms |
| Nearest Town | Veraval (42 kms) |
| Established | 1965 |
| National Park status | 1975 |
| Nearest railway station | Sasan � 1 km, Junagarh � 65 kms |
| Nearest airport | Keshod � 86 kms |
| Best time to visit | December to March |
General information:
Sasangir is located in the Junagarh District of Gujarat, near the Kathiawar Peninsula. Part of the erstwhile estate of Junagarh in Gujarat, this forest was brought under protection by the Nawab, whose initial efforts kick-started the government�s campaign to protect the last remaining Asiatic lions. The Gir National Park is the only place outside Africa where you can see wild lions. The maldharis, a tribe, and their cattle live inside the forest and pose a serious problem as they are often in conflict with the lions which find easy prey in the form of the cattle.
The forest has many attractive geographical features that include hilly tracts interrupted by rivers and lakes. Vegetation is sparse, covering only about 10 percent of the total area. The temples of Kankai mata, and Tulsishyam are ancient structures. Tulsishyam is also known for its hot springs.
Wildlife in Sariska:
The flora of the forest consists of mixed deciduous vegetation. Teak, banyan, acacia, flame of the forest, and Ber are among the major flora found here. The animal population, apart from the lions, includes panthers, wild cat, jackal, and Hyena among the carnivores. The animals of prey include sambar, chinkara, chital, chowsingha, wild boar, langur and porcupines. Crocodiles, reptiles and sloth bear can also be spotted. There is a crocodile breeding farm in sasan from where crocodiles are released to the rivers and lakes of the region. The prey animals have not shown any significant rise in their populations. This is due to the presence of the Maldharis, whose cattle are overgrazing the land and posing threat to the natural prey animal population in the forest.
A large number of birds can be spotted in Sasangir. These include sand grouse, partridges, fly catcher, wood pecker, crested serpent eagle, falcon, grey drongo, eagles, and the white necked stork.
Accommodation, Climate and Clothing:
Accommodation can be found at the forest bungalow, which should be booked in advance by contacting the relevant authorities. The ITDC forest lodge can be booked from any of the ITDC offices all over India. The Lion safari camp and the Gir Lodge are the other hotels that are well known for their facilities. Tourists visiting Diu (110 kms) can also visit Gir National Park. There are many lodging options of varied classes in Veraval, Keshod, Junagarh and Diu.
The climate of Sasangir is of the extreme kind. The summers are scorching, with temperatures reaching 44 �C at times, while winters are chilly, when the mercury drops around 5 �C. Light colored cottons are recommended for summers, while heavy woolens would be needed for the winter months. Boots, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must during safaris.
Learn more about Sasangir, its tourist attractions, transportation and accommodation options in touristplacesinindia.com.
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