President Murmu to visit Gir on Oct 10-11, forest safari to open a week early for welcome

For the first time in Sasan’s history, the Gir National Park safari will open before the official end of its annual four-month monsoon closure. The decision has been taken by the forest department to facilitate President Droupadi Murmu’s visit to the sanctuary on October 10 and 11.

The President, who will be in Gir for two days, is expected to experience the lush post-monsoon beauty of the forest and witness the Asiatic lions, often described as the pride of Asia.

Usually, Gir Safari remains shut between June 15 and October 15 during the monsoon to ensure safety and allow the ecosystem to rejuvenate. The park usually reopens on October 16. This year, however, the safari will open on October 9, seven days earlier than usual, specifically to accommodate the President’s itinerary.

President Murmu’s upcoming tour will mark the fourth visit by a serving President of India to Gir.

The first was Dr Rajendra Prasad in the 1950s, when lion numbers were rapidly declining. Accompanied by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, he initiated crucial discussions on wildlife conservation, leading to measures that helped revive the lion population.

Decades later, Pratibha Patil and Ram Nath Kovind also visited the park, both accompanied by their families, continuing the tradition of India’s first citizens witnessing the lions in their natural habitat.

President Murmu’s visit will carry forward this legacy, reinforcing the importance of Gir both as an ecological treasure and as a national heritage site.

With the President’s visit confirmed, local authorities, forest officials, and security teams are coordinating to ensure smooth arrangements. Special attention is being given to safari logistics, guest facilities, and security measures, given the stature of the visitor.

Forest officials clarified that the early opening of the safari is a one-time exception due to the presidential visit, and regular visitors will be able to access the park as per the updated schedule.