Gir safari closed till October 15, Devaliya-Ambardi safari parks to remain open

The annual jungle safari season at Gir National Park and Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary has officially come to an end, with safari operations being suspended from June 23 until October 15 due to the monsoon season.

In a departure from its usual schedule, the Forest Department had extended the Gir Safari season by one week this year because of the delayed arrival of the monsoon. While safaris typically conclude on June 15 every year, tourists were allowed to visit the Gir forests until June 22.

Despite the extension, the Gir region received little to no rainfall during the additional week. However, wildlife enthusiasts and tourists took full advantage of the extended safari period to spot the world-famous Asiatic lions and other wildlife species found in Gir National Park.

Following the return of all safari vehicles on June 22, the forest has now been officially closed to tourists. The four-month closure is implemented every year during the monsoon season, which coincides with the breeding period of several wildlife species, including the Asiatic lion. The move also helps protect forest roads and minimises human disturbance in the natural habitat.

Gir Safari is scheduled to reopen for visitors on October 16 after the monsoon break.

Meanwhile, the Devaliya Safari Park and Ambardi Safari Park will continue to remain open throughout the rainy season, offering visitors an opportunity to observe wildlife even while the main Gir jungle safari remains closed.