Sasan Gir National Park enjoys the privilege of being one of the most visited places in Gujarat. It is one of the prime destinations that attract a lot of visitors from across the country and outside of it. Being the only home to the famous Asiatic Lions, Gir is also a natural habitat for many animals, birds, reptiles, and rare insects. While the national park is the major tourist spot, there are other fascinating places around Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary where visitors enjoy their time.

Somnath Temple is located at a distance of 45 km from Sasan Gir. Somnath was once known as the richest temple in the pre-Mughal era. The beauty and richness of the temple attracted a lot of foreign rulers and kings, who came to India and looted almost all the gold, not once but several times. The elegance of the temple doubles with the beautiful sea that surrounds it. Millions of Hindus visit this place for pilgrimage and enjoy a peaceful time with their family. Cameras are not allowed inside the premises, but there is a locker facility provided near the entrance. It is one of the highly recommended places for visitors, so next time when you are in Gir, do visit this place.

Location: Somnath, Gujarat

Timings: 7 am to 8 pm, all days

Entry fee: No charge

It is located within the Sasan Gir National Park vicinity. It is in fact situated at the heart of the Gir National Park. Built over one of the seven rivers that drains the area of Sasan Gir Sanctuary, it is considered as the lifeline of Gir. Kamleshwar Dam is constructed over the Hiran river. It is known for being the breeding site of marsh crocodile of Gir along with being the stopping point for many species of migrating birds. Plan a trip to Sasan Gir and its neighboring places to have a memorable time with your loved ones. A visit to Kamleshwar Dam is all set to give you a deeper insight into the various cultures and traditions of Sasan Gir.

Location: Within Sasan Gir National Park

At about a distance of 80 km from Sasan Gir, Uperkot Fort is the reminiscence of the Maurya Empire in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. It was built by Chandragupta Maurya in the year 319 BC. One of the most ancient forts in India, it is one of the most visited places in Gujarat. People who travel to Gir National Park often include this spot in their places to visit list. Admired by thousands, Uperkot Fort will certainly take you back to its glorious ancient history. It has three massive gates and the walls are at a height of 20 meters. The other attractions of Uperkot Fort include the Tomb of Nuri Shah, two baolis or step wells, and several Buddhist caves.

Location: Junagadh, Gujarat 80 km from Sasan Gir

Timings: 6:30 am to 6:30 pm

Entry fee: No charges

Jamjir waterfall is situated in the neighborhood of a village named Jamwala, which is about at a distance of 23 km from Sasan Gir. It is a small waterfall but astonishingly beautiful. It remains active throughout the year and visitors enjoy bathing just a few steps upstream from the waterfall. The sound of water falling from a height on stones is just music to the ears. It looks stunning when the water flows, making its way through stones and small rocks. It’s a place where you can take a lot of selfies with your loved ones as a remembrance of your visit to this amazing place. However, you need to be careful. 

Location: Kansariya, Gujarat

Situated at a distance of 12 km from Sasan Gir National Park, Devalia Safari Park is also known as Gir Interpretation Zone, yet another place to sight lions. If you couldn’t spot any lions in Gir, you will not be disappointed visiting this place as you will definitely spot a few of them. You can also spot leopards in close vicinity, however, they have been kept away from lions by the management to avoid any lion killing the leopard.

If you are lucky, you will see the leopards being fed by the staff at about 5 pm. Only caged gypsy are available unlike the open ones in Gir. You can also spot other animals and plenty of birds in their natural habitat. A permit is required to explore Devaliya Safari Park, which is issued from the tourist reception center. There is a limit to permits issued in a day, so you need to be there at the reception center early morning to avail the service. You can also get a permit online. This saves time and effort, especially during the peak season, but remember that permits generated online are non-refundable.

Location: Sasan Road, Gir National Park

Timings: 8 am to 11 am and 3 pm to 5 pm

Entry fee:

• Bus: Monday to Friday INR 150 per head for Indians and INR 2800 per head for non-Indians. On Saturdays, Sundays, and festival days the charges are INR 190 per head for Indians and INR 3500 per head for non-Indians.
• Gypsy: Monday to Friday INR 800 (up to 6 persons ) for Indians and INR 5600 up to 6 non-Indians. On Saturdays, Sundays, and festival days the charges are INR 1000 (up to 6 persons) for Indians and INR 7000 up to 6 non-Indians.

Kankai Mata Temple is situated in the heart of the Gir forest, inside the jungle. A lot of people who visit Gir National Park also pay homage to this wonderful temple located deep inside. The temple is considered as the benefactor of the shepherds of Gir forest. It is an amazingly wild place and you can often hear the lion roar and see animals gathering near the lake. The place is peaceful and you can spot lions if you are lucky, roaming freely in their homes. Other animals and birds such as deer and peacock are often spotted easily around the vicinity. The ride will be slow because of the rough and uneven forest road. Worth a shot though!

Location: Gir National Park

Timings: 6 am to 5 pm

Girnar Hills more famously known as the Revatak Pravata is an accumulation of mountains in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. It is considered to be sacred and an important pilgrimage point for millions of Hindus and Jains who come to pay their respect during the Girnar Parikrama festival. The flora and fauna of the place add to the beauty and attraction for nature lovers. Girnar Hills also host a variety of temples and other historical spots. During the Maha Shivratri festival, millions of people gather to offer prayers. It is said that Girnar Hills are older than the Himalayas and are considered to be the most ancient mountains in India. To reach the top, you will have to hike the mountain so wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

Location: Sasan Gir, Junagadh, Gujarat