The Monday morning greeted us with a refreshing coolness, and the sun cast a bright glow all around. Mr. Mohit, in his kindness, had made all the necessary arrangements, considering it was my first safari experience. Our safari adventure was set for the evening, from 3 to 6 PM.

The Gir Forest is home to several tribal communities who have lived there for generations. The main tribes found in the Gir area are the Maldharis, who are a pastoral community who raise cattle and are dependent on the forest for their livelihood, and the Siddis, who are an ethnic group of African descent who have lived in the region for centuries.

The West Indian state of Gujarat may seem dry and uninviting at first glance. But a deeper look will prove you wrong, from some amazing birdwatching and wildlife destinations, each with something unique to offer, to the warmth, affection, and hospitality of the people of the region.

Many know Gujarat for its festivals, culture, and even cuisine. I, however, have always been drawn to the wildlife of Gujarat. Not only is this state rich in wildlife, but many of the birds and mammals found here are unique to the region, or at least best seen here. It wasn’t a surprise then, that it took me almost no time at all to plan and book a week-long Gujarat birding tour.

Even though I am a birder at heart, there’s something about crocodiles that has always enchanted me. I really can’t place a finger on it. They just happen to be an animal that I always look out for. Well, it was during my last visit to Gir Birding Lodge, in my opinion, the best birding lodge in the Gir forest. The lodge is an oasis of a place located right next to the entry to the Gir National Park, and my two interests managed to collide perfectly. 

1. At Gir Birding Lodge

2. A languorous Sunday morning at Gir Birding Lodge. Gentle and Lazy. I had reached the Lodge after catching a connecting flight from Delhi via Mumbai to Diu. From Diu one and a half hours of exhilarating drive to the Lodge at the boundary of Sasan Gir Park.

As the only place to witness the huge population of Asiatic lions, Gir National Park has been an attractive destination for a lot of tourists from not only India but from different parts of the world. Located in proximity to Talatar Gir, it is known to have such lions since the year 1965. If you are a crazy wildlife enthusiast and wish to experience the rarest sight of these majestic species, you should definitely visit this place. Apart from that, you can also stay engaged with some of these attractions – 

Gir Birding Lodge – Perfect Spot to Spot the Most Alluring Nature’s Stocks!

Dodge the Mundane Humdrum to Lodge with Mother Nature at Gir Forest National Park!

Gir Lions- The Pride of India!