Gujarat Wildlife & Birding Expedition - +300 Species
Destinations: Rajkot, Gir National Park, Jamnagar, Bhuj, and The Little Rann of Kutch, Ahmedabad
Duration: 07 nights and 08 days
Tour code: #1059-IB V.04
Best time: November to mid-March
The Gujarat Birding and Wildlife Tour genuinely takes one to the heart of the most vibrant areas nature has to offer in the west of India. It traverses through an incredibly wide variety of landscapes, such as the open grasslands, the salty deserts, the rich wetlands, and even the coastal habitats. The trip is focused on Velavadars grassland ecosystem, which is home to the famous Blackbuck, and also wolves and several grassland birds. It then moves on to Gir National Park, a guardian of the Asiatic Lion with over 300 bird species. After that, the beautiful wetland-marine combination at Jamnagar is visited, where there is a profusion of waterbirds as well as scrubland species. Finally, the Great and Little Rann of Kutch are arid wild areas of existing birdlife that are home to rare migrants and the endangered Indian Wild Ass.
Together, the four regions represent the magnificent biodiversity of Gujarat that makes the tour perfect not only for birdwatchers but also for wildlife lovers and nature photographers.
Itinerary Overview
Day 01: Rajkot to Gir National Park
Meals: Lunch and Dinner in Gir
Accommodation: Gir Birding Lodge
Upon arrival in Rajkot, you will be warmly received and transferred to Gir National Park (approximately 4 hours). On arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy a leisurely lunch, followed by time to relax and unwind after the journey, soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
In the evening, head out for a gentle bird walk outside the national park, exploring nearby habitats rich in woodland and scrub species. This walk offers good chances to spot birds such as Indian White-eye, Common Woodshrike, Tickell’s Blue Flycatcher, and the elegant Indian Paradise Flycatcher. Return to the lodge as dusk sets in for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 02: Gir National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Gir Birding Lodge
Today offers another immersive day to explore the rich wilderness of Gir National Park. Begin early with a morning safari as you continue your search for the majestic Asiatic Lion along with other resident wildlife. Gir’s varied landscapes—ranging from dense teak forests and riverine patches to open grasslands—create excellent opportunities for both wildlife observation and photography. With the expertise of your naturalist guide, you will be taken to promising zones to maximise sightings and capture compelling images.
After returning to the lodge for breakfast, enjoy some leisure time to rest, review your morning photographs, or explore the natural surroundings of the lodge. In the afternoon, set out for your final safari in Gir, focusing on areas not yet covered or revisiting locations that previously offered rewarding sightings. Birdwatchers should remain alert for special species such as the impressive Great Hornbill and the graceful Indian Paradise Flycatcher.
As evening sets in, spend time reviewing your photographs and sharing highlights from your Gir experience. Your guide will provide constructive feedback and practical tips to help refine your wildlife photography skills. The day concludes with dinner at the lodge and a peaceful overnight stay, allowing you to rest and prepare for your onward journey to Jamnagar the following day.
Day 03: Gir National Park to Jamnagar
Meals: Breakfast in Gir, Lunch and Dinner in Jamnagar
Accommodation: Hotel President
After an early breakfast, depart for Jamnagar, a coastal city renowned for its exceptional bird sanctuaries and rich marine life. The drive covers approximately 250 km and takes around 5–6 hours. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take time to freshen up and relax after the journey.
In the late afternoon, visit the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary, a unique and ecologically diverse wetland that attracts a large number of resident and migratory birds. A true paradise for birdwatchers, the sanctuary has over 300 recorded species. As you explore its mosaic of freshwater lakes, saltpans, and marshes, keep a lookout for notable species such as the Black-necked Stork and Dalmatian Pelican, along with numerous ducks, waders, and other wetland birds that thrive in these varied habitats.
Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner. Your guide will brief you on the following day’s activities, with special emphasis on Jamnagar’s birdlife and surrounding marine ecosystems. Enjoy a restful night’s sleep, preparing for another rewarding day of birdwatching and exploration.
Day 04: Jamnagar to Bhuj
Meals: Breakfast in Jamnagar, Late Lunch and Dinner in Bhuj
Accommodation: CEDO Camp or similar
After an early breakfast, depart for Bhuj, the gateway to the vast and dramatic Rann of Kutch. The journey covers approximately 300 km and takes around 6–7 hours, passing through changing landscapes and rural villages that offer glimpses into local life and opportunities for photography and cultural observation.
On arrival in Bhuj, check in to your hotel and take time to freshen up and relax. In the late afternoon, head out to explore the nearby Banni Grasslands, a distinctive and lesser-known ecosystem renowned for its rich biodiversity. These open grasslands and seasonal wetlands support a wide variety of resident and migratory bird species, making it an excellent introduction to the region’s avian life.
Return to the hotel in the evening for dinner, followed by a briefing from your guide on the next day’s programme, with a focus on the unique birdlife and landscapes of the Rann of Kutch. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay, well rested for a full day of exploration ahead.
Day 05: Bhuj
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: CEDO Camp or Similar
Today is dedicated to a full day of birding and wildlife exploration in the Banni Grasslands and the Chhari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve. Begin with an early morning excursion to the Banni Grasslands, a unique semi-arid ecosystem teeming with avian life. Here, you may spot species such as Grey Hypocolius, Desert Wheatear, Black-crowned Sparrow-Lark, and the striking Hoopoe Lark, while enjoying the open landscapes that offer perfect opportunities for photography. Your guide will provide insights into the grasslands’ ecology and the ongoing conservation efforts protecting this delicate habitat.
Return to your hotel for breakfast and a short period of rest before heading out in the afternoon to the Chhari-Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve, a critical stopover for migratory birds. The wetlands support a remarkable diversity of waterbirds, including Flamingos, Pelicans, Common Crane, Demoiselle Crane, Greater Flamingo, Spoonbill, Pied Avocet, Black-winged Stilt, Northern Pintail, Eurasian Wigeon, Garganey, and White-tailed Lapwing, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers alike. Your guide will help identify species, explain migratory patterns, and share tips for capturing memorable photographs.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the wetlands or visit nearby villages to experience the local culture and traditions. Return to the hotel for dinner, followed by a review session of the day’s sightings and photographs, with guidance from your expert guide to enhance your observations and photography skills. Overnight stay at your hotel, resting up for the next adventure in the Little Rann of Kutch.
Day 06: Bhuj to Little Rann of Kutch
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Rann Riders
Today, depart from Bhuj and drive to the Little Rann of Kutch, a striking saline desert that presents a dramatic contrast to the grasslands and wetlands explored earlier. The journey takes approximately 6 hours, passing through remote and sparsely populated landscapes. On arrival, check in to your accommodation and enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
In the late afternoon, set out for birding with your guide across the vast open expanse of the Rann. This region is renowned as the only natural habitat of the Indian Wild Ass, and sightings of this unique species are a highlight of the visit. The desert ecosystem also supports other wildlife such as Desert Fox and Indian Wolf, along with an impressive variety of birdlife,e including Greater Flamingo, Common Crane, and several species of raptors. The expansive terrain, big skies, and changing light create excellent opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.
As the day draws to a close, your guide will share insights into the distinctive ecology of the Little Rann of Kutch and the conservation initiatives aimed at protecting its fragile environment. Enjoy the quiet, open desert atmosphere in the evening as you prepare for further exploration of this extraordinary landscape.
Overnight stay.
Day 07: Little Rann of Kutch
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Rann Riders
Spend the entire day exploring the diverse habitats of the Little Rann of Kutch. Start with an early morning safari to catch the wildlife during their most active period. The unique saline desert environment supports a wide range of species, and your guide will help you track and photograph the Indian Wild Ass, Desert Foxes, and other inhabitants of this harsh landscape.
After breakfast, you will have some time to relax and review your morning's photographs. In the afternoon, head out for another safari, focusing on the birdlife of the region. The wetlands and seasonal water bodies attract a variety of species, including flamingos, pelicans, and numerous shorebirds. Bird watchers will be thrilled with the diversity and abundance of species present.
The evening will be spent at your accommodation, where you can review the day's photographs with your guide. Dinner will be served, and you can enjoy a peaceful night under the stars, reflecting on the unique experiences of the day. Prepare for your return journey to Ahmedabad tomorrow.
Overnight stay.
Day 08: Little Rann of Kutch to Ahmedabad
Meals: Breakfast
Begin the final day with early morning birding in the Little Rann of Kutch, making the most of the soft light and heightened wildlife activity across the open saline landscape. After a leisurely breakfast, depart for Ahmedabad, marking the conclusion of your wildlife and birding journey. The drive takes approximately 3 hours.
Upon arrival in Ahmedabad, you will be dropped at the airport, railway station, or your preferred city point for your onward journey. With this transfer, your tour officially comes to an end, leaving you with lasting memories of India’s diverse habitats—from forests and grasslands to wetlands and salt deserts—and an enriching collection of wildlife sightings and photographs.
End of Tour
Highlights
- Explore Gujarat’s most diverse birding and wildlife habitats in one immersive journey
- Witness Blackbuck, Indian Grey Wolf, and rich grassland birdlife at Velavadar
- Track the majestic Asiatic Lion in its only natural home at Gir National Park
- Discover over 300 bird species across forests, wetlands, grasslands, and saline deserts
- Birdwatch at Jamnagar’s unique freshwater–saline wetland ecosystem
- Experience arid-zone birding in the Great and Little Rann of Kutch
- Spot rare species like Macqueen’s Bustard, harriers, sandgrouse, and desert larks
- Observe the endangered Indian Wild Ass in the Little Rann of Kutch
- Ideal for birders, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature photographers
Services Included
- Accommodation for 02 nights in Gir National Park
- 02 Jeep Safaris in Gir National Park with entrance fee
- Accommodation for 01 night in Jamnagar
- Khijadiya and Narara Sanctuaries visits with an entrance fee
- Accommodation for 02 nights in Bhuj
- Local jeeps for birding safaris in Bhuj
- Accommodation for 02 nights in the Little Rann of Kutch
- 02 jeep safaris in LRK with park entrance fee
- Meals as per itinerary
- A dedicated guide for the entire tour
- Dedicated transport for the entire tour
- All taxes
Services Not Included
- Optional tours, tips, laundry, drinks, bottled water, meals not specified
- International airfare, Visa, insurance, monument entrance fee, camera fee, etc
- Any last-minute safari price hike by the forest department
