Accommodation & Room Facilities
1. What types of accommodations are available at Gir Birding Lodge?
The lodge offers well-appointed rooms on two floors and independent cottages, designed to blend comfort with natural forest surroundings.
2. How many rooms and cottages does the lodge have?
Gir Birding Lodge features 14 rooms on 2 floors and 6 cottages, ensuring privacy and a peaceful stay.
3. Are all rooms air-conditioned?
Yes, all rooms and cottages are fully air-conditioned.
4. Do rooms have attached bathrooms with hot and cold water?
Yes, each accommodation has a private attached bathroom with hot and cold water.
5. Is there a 24/7 hot water supply?
Yes, hot water is available round the clock.
6. Are there bathtubs in the bathrooms?
No, bathrooms are equipped with modern shower facilities but do not have bathtubs.
7. Are the rooms soundproof or quiet?
Rooms are not soundproof, but the natural surroundings ensure a peaceful, quiet stay.
8. Is there a television in the room?
No, televisions are not provided to maintain a nature-focused, digital-detox experience.
9. Are heaters available during winter?
Yes, room heaters are available on request during winter.
10. Is there a veranda or balcony in each room?
Many rooms and cottages include a private sit-out or veranda with views of greenery and birdlife.
11. Can we request extra blankets or hot water bags?
Yes, both are available on request.
12. Are towels replaced daily?
Yes, towels are replaced daily or as per guest preference, following eco-friendly practices.
13. Is there room service?
Room service is limited, as the lodge promotes outdoor and community dining.
14. Is drinking water provided in the rooms?
Yes, complimentary purified drinking water is provided.
15. Are electric kettles available in rooms?
Yes, electric kettles with tea and coffee amenities are provided.
16. Are toiletries provided?
Yes, essential toiletries such as soap, shampoo, and towels are supplied.
17. Do you provide mosquito repellent?
Yes, mosquito repellent is provided. Odomos can also be arranged on request.
18. Are the cottages suitable for the elderly or disabled?
Yes, some ground-floor cottages are easily accessible. A wheelchair-accessible cottage is available, and the lodge has a wheelchair for guest use.
19. Is daily housekeeping available?
Yes, daily housekeeping is provided.
20. Are there wheelchair-accessible rooms?
The lodge is not fully adapted for wheelchairs, but certain ground-floor rooms are easier to access. Please inform in advance.
21. Is Wi-Fi available in the rooms?
Wi-Fi is available in common areas. Room connectivity may be limited to preserve the natural retreat experience.
22. Do the rooms have safes or lockers?
No electronic safes are available in rooms, but valuables can be stored safely at the reception.
23. Can an extra bed be arranged in the room?
Yes, an extra bed or mattress can be arranged in select rooms at an additional cost.
24. What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in: 12:00 pm
Check-out: 10:00 am
25. Are early check-in and late check-out available?
Yes, both can be arranged based on availability and may involve additional charges.
Dining & Food
1. What type of food is served at the lodge?
The lodge serves healthy, home-style Indian meals prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
2. Are vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals both available?
Yes, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals are offered.
3. Do you cater to Jain or vegan food requests?
Yes, Jain and vegan meals can be prepared with prior notice.
4. Are traditional regional cuisines offered?
Yes, guests can enjoy local Saurashtra and Gujarati dishes along with Indian favourites.
5. What are the dining hours?
Breakfast: 7:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Lunch: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Dinner: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
(Timings may vary slightly based on safari schedules and season.)
6. Is buffet or à la carte available?
Meals are typically served in a set buffet style, though à la carte options may be arranged depending on occupancy.
7. Can meals be packed for safaris or departure?
Yes, packed meals and picnic baskets are available for safaris and early departures.
8. Are outdoor and private dining options available?
Yes, outdoor dining amidst nature and private dining experiences can be arranged on request.
9. Is there a bar or liquor served on the premises?
No, alcohol is neither served nor permitted on lodge premises as per Gujarat regulations.
10. Is it allowed to bring alcohol from outside?
Yes, guests may bring their own alcohol for consumption in their rooms or private spaces, provided they possess a valid alcohol permit as required by Gujarat law.
11. Can you accommodate special diets with prior notice?
Absolutely. Diabetic, gluten-free, low-spice, and other dietary requirements can be arranged with advance information.
12. Do you offer cooking lessons or interactive kitchen sessions?
Yes, cooking interactions can be arranged with prior notice.
13. Is the kitchen accessible to guests with infants?
The kitchen team can assist with infant food preparation, though direct access may be restricted for safety reasons.
14. Are soft drinks or bottled water available for purchase?
Yes, soft drinks and bottled water are available at the lodge.
15. Can meals be served in the rooms?
Room dining is limited but can be arranged in special situations.
16. Are beverages chargeable separately?
Yes, packaged beverages, soft drinks, and specialty items are charged separately.
17. Is smoking allowed in dining areas?
No, smoking is not allowed in dining areas or rooms for the comfort of all guests.
18. Are children allowed in dining areas?
Yes, children are welcome in the dining spaces.
19. Can I request a private BBQ dinner?
Yes, private BBQ dinners can be arranged with advance notice and are subject to weather conditions. Extra charges apply.
20. Are pets allowed in dining areas?
Pets are not allowed inside the main dining area, but outdoor dining with pets may be arranged depending on occupancy and the comfort of other guests.
Safari & Wildlife Experience
1. What are the safari timings in Gir National Park?
Safaris operate in two slots in the main national park zones:
- Morning: Approx. 6:00 am – 9:00 am
- Mid-morning safari: Approx. 9:00 am – 11:30 am
- Evening: Approx. 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
(Timings vary seasonally.)
In Devalia:
Safari operates in seven slots in the buffer zone
- 07:00 am - 07:55 am
- 08:00 am - 08:55 am
- 09:00 am - 09:55 am
- 10:00 am - 10:55 am
- 03:00 pm - 03:55 pm
- 04:00 pm - 04:55 pm
- 05:00 pm = 05:55 pm
2. How many safaris are conducted per day?
3 safaris are conducted daily in the main national park zones — one in the morning, one mid-morning and one in the evening.
In Devalia:
Safari operates in seven slots in the buffer park zone
3. How long is each safari?
Each safari lasts around 3 hours in the main national park zones.
In Devalia:
Each safari lasts around 55 minutes in the main buffer park zones.
4. What is the cost of a safari for Indian nationals?
Safari costs vary depending on the season and zone.
The average cost ranges in the main national park zones around ₹7,500 per gypsy (jeep) for 6 travellers, inclusive of permits, guide charges, and vehicle fees.
The average cost ranges in the main national park zones around ₹8,500 per larger jeep for 8 travellers, inclusive of permits, guide charges, and vehicle fees.
In Devalia:
The average cost ranges in the main national park zones around ₹7,500 per gypsy (jeep) for 6 travellers, inclusive of permits, guide charges, and vehicle fees.
The average cost ranges in the main national park zones around ₹8,500 per larger jeep for 8 travellers, inclusive of permits, guide charges, and vehicle fees.
5. What is the cost for foreign nationals?
Foreign national pricing is higher in the main national park zones due to permit differences, usually ₹12,000–₹15,000 per jeep.
In Devalia:
Foreign national pricing is higher in the main national park zones due to permit differences, usually ₹12,000–₹15,000 per jeep.
6. How many people can one jeep accommodate?
Each Gypsy (jeep) accommodates up to 6 guests plus the driver and guide.
Each large jeep accommodates up to 8 guests plus the driver and guide.
In Devalia:
Each Gypsy (jeep) accommodates up to 6 guests plus the driver and guide.
Each large jeep accommodates up to 8 guests plus the driver and guide.
7. Are children allowed on safaris?
Yes, children are allowed and welcome on safaris.
8. Can a private safari be booked?
Yes, a private jeep safari can be booked exclusively for your group.
9. Are safaris safe for the elderly?
Yes, safaris are generally safe. However, jeep entry and bumpy tracks should be considered.
10. Are the safari vehicles open or closed?
Safaris are conducted in open Gypsy jeeps for the best wildlife viewing.
In Devalia:
The safari vehicles used in Devaliya are closed vehicles, not open jeeps.
11. Are seat belts available in the safari vehicles?
Most safari jeeps do not have seat belts due to the open design.
12. Can we book safaris through the lodge?
Yes, Gir Birding Lodge can assist with safari permit bookings and arrangements.
13. Do I need to book my safari in advance?
Yes, safari slots often fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Booking is highly recommended.
14. Can we bring our own camera or drone?
Cameras are allowed at an extra cost. Drones are strictly prohibited inside the park.
15. Is there a separate fee for cameras?
Yes, for regular cameras, charges are usually applicable.
Professional equipment may attract additional fees depending on park regulations.
16. What wildlife can we expect to see?
Gir is famous for the Asiatic Lion. You may also spot:
- Leopards
- Deer species
- Bluebull
- Wild boar
- Jackals
- Mongooses
- Crocodiles
- Over 300 species of birds
17. Is birdwatching part of the safari?
Yes, safaris offer excellent birdwatching opportunities. You can also request dedicated birding walks.
18. Are the guides English-speaking?
Yes, English-speaking guides are available on request.
19. Can safaris be arranged during monsoons?
No, Gir National Park remains closed from mid-June to mid-October due to the monsoon.
Devalia Park remains open during the monsoon season.
20. What are Devalia Park safaris?
Devalia Interpretation Zone is a fenced safari area offering a shorter, easier safari experience and a higher chance of seeing lions.
21. Are safari permits refundable?
No, safari permits issued by the Forest Department are non-refundable.
22. What happens if a safari gets cancelled?
In the case of cancellations due to weather or government rules, refunds are as per Forest Department policy.
23. Can we go on a walking safari?
Walking safaris are not allowed inside the core forest area for safety reasons.
24. Are night safaris permitted?
No, night safaris are not allowed in Gir National Park.
25. Is there a chance of spotting Asiatic Lions?
Yes, Gir offers one of the highest chances of seeing Asiatic Lions in the wild.
26. Are safaris conducted in the summer?
Yes, summer safaris are held, and wildlife sightings can be excellent during this season.
27. Can I rent binoculars from the lodge?
Yes, binoculars can be provided on request, subject to availability.
28. Are wildlife film crews accommodated?
Yes, film crews can be assisted with permissions, logistics, and special arrangements, with adequate prior notice.
29. Are exclusive safaris available for photographers?
Yes, photography-focused safaris with flexible schedules and expert naturalists can be arranged.
30. Can I bring my own vehicle inside the park?
No, private vehicles are not allowed inside Gir National Park for safaris.
Activities & Experiences
1. What kind of nature walks are available?
The lodge offers guided nature walks through the surrounding orchard and forest trails, perfect for observing flora, fauna, and birdlife up close.
2. Can we join birdwatching tours on the property?
Yes, guided birdwatching sessions are available within the lodge’s orchard, which attracts a variety of local and migratory species.
3. Are birding picnics offered?
Yes, birding picnics can be arranged in scenic natural spots around the lodge on request.
4. Is a naturalist available to guide us?
Yes, experienced naturalists and birding experts are available to accompany you on safaris, walks, and birdwatching sessions. This may cost extra per safari.
5. What seasonal experiences are available?
Depending on the time of year, guests can enjoy winter birdwatching, summer wildlife experiences, monsoon greenery tours, and seasonal nature-based activities.
6. Do you offer yoga or wellness retreats?
Yes, yoga and wellness sessions can be arranged for individuals or groups. Special retreats may be organised on select dates.
7. Are herpetology workshops available during monsoons?
Yes, during the monsoon season, herpetology walks and workshops can be arranged outside the park’s core zone and at the lodge.
8. Are cultural programs or tribal dances organised?
Cultural evenings, such as Siddhi tribal dance performances, can be organised for groups and on special occasions. The troupe charges a fee.
9. Can I join conservation-related workshops or webinars?
Yes, Asian Adventures periodically hosts conservation talks, workshops, and online sessions, which guests can join.
10. Are village visits organised?
Yes, guided village visits can be arranged to explore rural life, local traditions, and community interactions.
11. Can guests participate in reforestation projects?
Guests can participate in tree-planting activities and learn about reforestation efforts supported by the lodge.
12. Do you offer spiritual or meditation retreats?
Meditation and mindfulness sessions can be arranged on request. Spiritual retreats may be organised during certain seasons.
13. Are there indoor games for children?
Yes, simple indoor games like board games and puzzles are available for children.
14. Is there a playground for kids?
There is a small playground with swings, but the open orchard space provides a safe area for kids to explore and play.
15. Are bonfires arranged in winter?
Yes, bonfires are organised on winter evenings (subject to forest regulations and weather conditions).
16. Can we stargaze from the orchard?
Absolutely—our location offers excellent stargazing opportunities on clear nights.
17. Is the library accessible to all guests?
Yes, guests have access to a small selection of books on wildlife, conservation, and regional history.
18. Are there art & handicraft exhibits or sales?
Occasionally, the lodge features local art and handicraft displays, and items may be available for purchase.
19. Can guests learn bird calls or identification?
Yes, naturalists often conduct informal bird-call and identification sessions for interested guests.
20. Do you offer a “workation” setup?
Yes, a peaceful workation setup can be arranged with a quiet workspace, charging points, and basic Wi-Fi in common areas.
Travel & Transfers
1. How far is Gir Birding Lodge from the nearest railway station?
The nearest railway station is Sasan Gir, located just 1 km from the lodge.
2. Which is the nearest airport to the lodge?
The nearest airport is Diu Airport (approx. 110 km).
Rajkot Airport is the next best option at approx. 160 km distance.
3. Is airport pickup and drop-off available?
Yes, airport transfers from Diu, Rajkot, and Ahmedabad can be arranged on request (chargeable).
4. How do we reach the lodge by road?
Gir Birding Lodge is easily accessible via the Sasan–Junagadh Road. Clear signboards and Google Maps navigation make the drive convenient.
5. Is transportation from Sasan Gir provided?
Yes, pick-up from Sasan Gir railway station or bus stop is available on request. This will cost extra, though.
6. Can you arrange rental cars for sightseeing?
Yes, we can arrange private cars for sightseeing, safaris, and nearby excursions.
7. Do you assist with train bookings?
We can book train tickets and guide you on routes and timings.
8. Is parking available for self-drive vehicles?
Yes, the lodge provides free and secure parking for self-drive guests.
9. Are drivers provided separate accommodation?
Yes, basic driver accommodation can be arranged on request (nominal charges may apply).
10. Do you offer pickup from Diu?
Yes, Diu pick-up and drop services are available (chargeable).
11. What is the travel time from Ahmedabad?
The drive from Ahmedabad to the lodge takes approximately 6–7 hours by road.
12. Do you have local transport arrangements?
Yes, we offer local transportation for safaris, village visits, and local sightseeing.
13. Do drivers have food facilities at the lodge?
Yes, simple meals for drivers can be arranged on request.
14. Can we take public transport to the lodge?
Yes, buses and trains connect Sasan Gir to major cities. From the station/bus stop, the lodge is just a short drive away.
15. What if our flight/train is delayed?
We adjust pick-up schedules accordingly. Just inform us of delays in advance, and the team will reschedule the transfer.
Lodge Services & Facilities
1. Is Wi-Fi reliable at the property?
Wi-Fi is available in common areas, but due to the forested surroundings, connectivity may be limited. It is best suited for basic browsing.
2. Is there mobile network coverage in the area?
Yes, there is network coverage, although the strength may vary depending on the provider.
3. Which mobile network works best?
Jio and Airtel generally offer the most reliable coverage around Sasan Gir.
4. Are pets allowed at the lodge?
Pets may be allowed with prior approval, based on room availability and house rules.
5. What is your pet policy?
Pets should be supervised at all times, not disturb wildlife, and are not allowed in dining areas. Guests must carry pet food and bedding.
6. Is the lodge safe for solo travellers?
Yes, Gir Birding Lodge is safe and welcoming for solo travellers, including women and backpackers.
7. Do you have security at night?
Yes, the lodge is secure at night.
8. Is smoking allowed anywhere on the property?
Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas. It is not allowed inside rooms or dining spaces.
9. Are there electricity backups or generators?
Yes, the lodge has backup power support to ensure basic electricity during outages.
10. What should I do in the case of a medical emergency?
Inform the staff immediately. The team will arrange transport to the nearest hospital or call medical support.
11. Is a doctor available on call?
Yes, a doctor on call can be arranged if required. But not 24x7.
12. Is there a first-aid kit on-site?
Yes, a well-stocked first-aid kit is available at the lodge.
13. Are foreign currency exchanges available nearby?
Currency exchange is not available at the lodge, but can be found in Junagadh or Veraval, around 45–75 minutes away.
14. Where is the nearest ATM?
The nearest ATM is in Sasan Gir town, approximately 1 km from the lodge.
15. Is there a laundry facility?
Yes, basic laundry services are available at the lodge (chargeable).
16. Is ironing available for clothes?
Yes, ironing services can be arranged on request.
17. Do you provide towels and linen?
Yes, fresh towels, bed linens, and bathroom essentials are provided.
18. Is tipping allowed?
Yes, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
19. Can I leave a tip for individual staff?
Yes, you may tip individual staff members or leave a common tip at the reception.
20. Are credit/debit cards accepted?
Yes, credit and debit cards are accepted at the lodge.
21. Can I pay via UPI or Paytm?
Yes, payments through UPI, Google Pay, Paytm, and other digital modes are accepted.
22. Can I get a printed receipt or invoice?
Yes, the lodge provides printed and digital invoices upon request.
23. Is the property fenced or open to wildlife?
The lodge is open and connected to nature, but boundaries and staff monitoring ensure guest safety.
24. Do wild animals enter the property?
Occasionally, you may spot wildlife around the orchard. Large animals rarely enter the lodge premises.
25. Are staff available 24/7 for assistance?
Yes, the team is available round-the-clock to assist guests with their needs.
26. Do you have a swimming pool at the lodge?
Yes, we have a swimming pool at the lodge for in-house guests only.
Health, Safety & Responsible Travel
1. What should I do if I spot a wild animal near the lodge?
Wildlife sightings are common around Gir. Please maintain a safe distance, avoid making sudden movements, and inform a lodge staff member immediately. Never attempt to feed or approach any animal.
2. Are children safe within the lodge premises?
Yes, the lodge is safe for families. However, since we are located close to natural habitats, children must be supervised at all times, especially during outdoor movements.
3. What health precautions should I take before coming?
No mandatory vaccinations are required. We recommend carrying personal medication, basic first-aid essentials, and insect repellent. Those with allergies should inform the staff in advance.
4. Are there restrictions during certain seasons?
Gir National Park remains closed from mid-June to mid-October due to the monsoon. The lodge stays operational, but forest safaris are restricted only to the Devalia area during this period.
5. Can I bring packaged food into the lodge?
You may bring dry snacks, but we encourage minimising packaged items to reduce waste. Storing food inside rooms is discouraged as it may attract insects.
6. Are you a plastic-free property?
We follow a strict low-plastic policy. Single-use plastics are discouraged, and we provide alternatives like filtered drinking water and reusable containers.
7. Do you follow sustainable energy practices?
Yes. The lodge uses energy-efficient lighting, solar power in select areas, and promotes responsible consumption of electricity and water among guests.
8. How do you manage waste?
Waste is segregated at source, composed where possible, and recyclable materials are sent for proper processing. We avoid burning or dumping waste in natural areas.
9. Are pets allowed during jungle safaris?
No. Pets are not allowed on safaris due to wildlife safety regulations and forest department guidelines.
10. Is it safe to walk barefoot inside the cottages?
Yes, the rooms are clean and maintained. However, since this is a forest environment, wearing slippers is recommended to avoid accidental contact with insects.
11. What do I do if I find insects in the room?
Insects can occasionally enter because of the lodge’s forest setting. Please inform the staff, and we will assist immediately. We also provide natural repellents on request.
12. Are there mosquito or pest control measures?
Yes. Regular eco-friendly pest control treatments are carried out. Mosquito nets, repellents, and preventive measures are available for guests.
13. Do you offer guidance for eco-conscious travel?
Absolutely. Our team will help you with tips on minimising waste, conserving water and energy, and travelling responsibly within the forest ecosystem.
14. Can guests participate in cleanup drives?
Yes, guests who wish to join clean-up or eco-volunteer activities can inform the team. The team organises such initiatives periodically.
15. Are you involved in wildlife conservation?
Gir Birding Lodge supports local conservation efforts, promotes responsible tourism, and works closely with naturalists and local communities to protect the region’s biodiversity.
Booking, Payments & Policies
1. How can I make a booking?
You can book your stay through our official website, by calling our reservations team, or by emailing us directly with your travel dates.
2. Is a full advance payment required for booking?
Yes, a full advance payment is required to confirm your reservation.
3. Can I book directly on the website?
Yes, you can make direct bookings on the Gir Birding Lodge website using our secure booking system.
4. Are group rates available?
Yes, we offer special rates for groups, birding clubs, photography teams, and corporate bookings. Contact our team for customised quotes.
5. Do you offer last-minute deals?
Subject to availability, last-minute deals may be offered. You may check with our reservations team for ongoing offers.
6. Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, our standard cancellation policy applies, depending on how many days before arrival you cancel. We share this information during booking.
7. What if I cancel because of a family emergency?
We understand emergencies happen. While refunds depend on the cancellation window, we do our best to assist with date changes or partial credits, wherever possible.
8. Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Yes, bookings can be transferred to another guest with prior notice. Please inform us at least 48 hours before arrival.
9. What is the refund policy for cancellations?
We process refunds according to the cancellation policy shared during booking. Refund timelines may vary depending on your payment method.
10. Is GST included in the tariff?
Yes, GST is applicable as per government norms. Some tariffs include GST, while your invoice shows GST separately for others.
11. What is the policy for no-shows?
In the case of a no-show, the full booking amount is non-refundable.
12. Are rates negotiable for long stays?
Yes, for extended stays, we may offer special long-stay rates. Please contact the reservations team for details.
13. Do you accept international cards?
Yes, we accept major international credit and debit cards through our online payment system.
14. Are taxes included in the safari charges?
Safari charges include forest department fees and taxes unless stated otherwise. Any cameras and additional permits will be charged separately. This may have to be paid in cash, in rupees.
15. Is travel insurance recommended?
Yes, we highly recommend travel insurance, especially for safaris, adventure travel, and long-distance trips.
16. Are children under a certain age free?
Yes, children below a certain age may stay free or at a discounted rate. Please check the child policy at the time of booking.
17. Is there a fee for extra adults or kids?
We charge extra for adults or children according to our additional occupancy rates.
18. Do I need to pay camera charges separately?
Yes. The forest department’s camera and equipment charges must be paid separately during safari entry, as per its rules. This may have to be paid in cash, in rupees.
19. Are food and beverage charges included in the tariff?
Meal plans vary with booking. Some packages include meals, while others are on an à la carte basis. The details are provided at the time of booking.
20. Can I pay part in advance and part at check-in?
No, a full advance payment is required to secure your booking.
21. Are safaris included in room packages?
Certain packages may include safaris, while others do not. Please refer to your chosen package or contact us for clarity.
22. Do you offer any seasonal promotions?
Yes, we run seasonal and festival offers throughout the year. You can check our website or speak to the reservations team for the latest promotions.
23. Can I get a GST invoice for business travel?
Yes, we provide GST invoices for business or corporate travel. Please share your GST details during booking.
24. What if I need to change my travel dates?
Date changes are subject to availability and may attract modification charges depending on the season and notice period.
25. Do you allow split payments?
Yes, we can accept split payments for group or multi-room bookings. Please notify us in advance to arrange this.
Local Area, Culture & Nature
1. What’s unique about the Gir Forest ecosystem?
Gir is the last natural habitat of the Asiatic Lion and a thriving dry deciduous forest ecosystem. It supports over 400 plant species, 300+ birds, and rich wildlife, including leopards, deer, hyenas, crocodiles, and diverse reptiles.
2. Who are the Maldhari tribes?
Maldharis are traditional pastoral communities who have lived inside Gir for centuries. They rear cattle, follow age-old customs, and are deeply connected to the forest, making their lifestyle a unique cultural experience.
3. Are there local markets or crafts nearby?
Yes, Sasan Gir and nearby villages offer local handicrafts, forest honey, tribal ornaments, Kutchi embroidery, and regional souvenirs.
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4. Can I visit Sasan Village?
Yes, guests can visit Sasan village to explore its local culture, markets, rural homes, and the daily lives of communities living near the forest.
5. What is the best time to visit Gir for birding?
The best birding months are November to March, when migrant species arrive, and the weather is pleasant for long birding walks.
6. Are there other attractions near the lodge?
Yes. Nearby attractions include Devalia Safari Park, Crocodile Breeding Centre, Kamleshwar Dam, Somnath Temple, Diu Island, and Gir’s forest interpretation zones.
7. Can I visit local farms or orchards?
Absolutely. The lodge is surrounded by fruit orchards and farmlands, and visits can be arranged to experience rural life, mango orchards, and local farming practices.
8. Are local festivals celebrated in the village?
Yes. Villagers actively celebrate traditional Gujarati festivals such as Navratri, Uttarayan, Holi, and local harvest celebrations.
9. Can I meet local artisans?
Yes, we can arrange visits to craft communities where you can meet artisans who specialize in embroidery, beadwork, pottery, and traditional tribal crafts. There aren’t too many in this region, though.
10. Do you support community-based tourism?
Yes, Asian Adventures promotes responsible and community-based tourism by involving local guides, supporting village artisans, and encouraging eco-friendly travel.
11. Are there any nearby waterfalls or rivers?
Gir has scenic water bodies such as the Kamleshwar Dam and several streams. Seasonal waterfalls appear during monsoons in forested zones near Gir.
12. Is the Hiran River accessible from the lodge?
The Hiran River flows near Sasan Gir, and people can visit it on local excursions, but seasonal water levels and forest regulations affect direct access.
13. What is the climate like during different months?
Oct–Feb: Cool, pleasant weather; best for birding.
Mar–Jun: Hot and dry; great for wildlife sightings.
Jul–Sep: Monsoon; the forest turns lush, but the national park remains closed.
14. Are there temples or cultural sites to visit?
Yes. You can visit the Somnath Temple, Bhalka Tirth, Kankai Mata Temple, and several rural shrines located around the Gir region.
15. Are there any local conservation initiatives?
Gir Birding Lodge supports and collaborates with organisations involved in wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and community education, contributing to responsible tourism in the Gir landscape.
Photography & Filming
1. Are photography permits required for safaris?
Photography is allowed during safaris, but professional shoots may require additional permissions as per Forest Department rules.
2. Is flash photography allowed during safaris?
No. Flash photography is strictly prohibited inside Gir National Park for the safety and comfort of wildlife.
3. Can I bring a tripod or monopod?
Tripods and monopods are allowed at the lodge and during birding walks, but they may not be permitted inside safari vehicles due to safety and space restrictions.
4. Are drones permitted?
No. Drones are strictly prohibited inside and around Gir National Park as per forest and wildlife protection laws.
5. Do you assist wildlife filmmakers?
Yes, we help coordinate permissions, logistics, stay arrangements, and local guides for film crews following forest regulations.
6. Can I shoot a documentary or vlog?
Yes, you can film on the lodge premises and public areas. However, any filming inside the Gir Forest requires prior approval from the Forest Department.
7. Are camera charges different for foreigners?
Yes, heavy professional equipment may incur separate fees, and camera charges often differ for Indian and foreign nationals as per government rules.
8. Can photographers get early safari access?
Early or exclusive access is not permitted, as the Forest Department strictly governs safari timings. However, we help plan ideal timings for the best light.
9. Are birding hides available for photographers?
Yes, the lodge has natural birding spots within the orchard, and special setups or hides can be arranged on request, depending on season and availability.
10. Are workshops conducted for nature photography?
Yes, Gir Birding Lodge occasionally hosts birding and nature photography workshops, especially during peak seasons. Private sessions can also be arranged on request.
