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Gujarat, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and beautiful beaches, is celebrated for its rich wildlife. The state boasts diverse natural habitats like grasslands, forests, and coastal areas, attracting tourists worldwide. Gujarat is home to several endangered animal species, which you can explore by visiting its top wildlife sanctuaries. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, Gir National Park, and Marine National Park are among Gujarat’s must-visit sanctuaries. If you’re seeking a wildlife adventure and want to connect with nature, consider exploring these top 10 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Gujarat for an unforgettable holiday experience.
1. Gir National Park
Gir National Park, located about 43 km from Somnath and 60 km from Junagadh, is a top attraction in Gujarat. Covering nearly 1412 sq km, it is the only place in India where you can find the largest population of Asiatic lions. Besides lions, the park is home to wild boars, sambar deer, spotted deer, Nilgai, and predators such as hyenas, leopards, and wild cats. It also hosts over 300 species of birds. With its unique landscape of hills and ridges, Gir National Park offers stunning natural beauty and exciting wildlife encounters, making it a must-visit destination in Gujarat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
2. Velavadar National Park
Established in 1976, Velavadar Blackbuck National Park is located in Bhavnagar, Gujarat. Originally a hunting ground for the Maharaja of Bhavnagar, it is renowned for its rare population of blackbucks. The park has over 3,000 blackbucks and over 120 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. You can also spot mammals like nilgai, jungle cats, jackals, foxes, and wolves here. Velavadar Blackbuck National Park is perfect for creating cherished memories with friends and family amidst its diverse wildlife and picturesque surroundings.
3. Marine National Park
Located in the Gulf of Kutch, Marine National Park in Gujarat is a haven for diverse marine life, including sea cucumbers, sponges, sea urchins, mollusks, corals, and various fish species. It consists of 42 islands, with Narara and Pirotan being the most popular for marine exploration. Initially designated as a marine sanctuary in 1980, it was later declared a national park in 1982. The park features three main areas: coastal waters, mangrove backwaters, and salty marshlands. Visitors can observe marine animals such as sea anemones, stingrays, octopuses, pufferfish, sea stars, and crabs. Marine National Park in Jamnagar opens for visitors at 9 AM, providing ample opportunities to explore its rich marine biodiversity throughout the day.
4. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary
Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary, located 70 km from Vadodara, Gujarat, is a popular destination for families, youngsters, and wildlife enthusiasts. Once part of Jambughoda’s princely state, it spans 130 sq km and is rich in flora and fauna. The sanctuary offers an ideal spot for an enjoyable weekend getaway. Visitors can spot animals like wild boars, blue bulls, sloth bears, hyenas, jackals, and leopards amidst its diverse natural surroundings.
5. Barda Wildlife Sanctuary
Covering 192 square kilometers, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular tourist spot in Gujarat, located 15 kilometers from Porbandar. It features lush green forests surrounded by dams, streams, and rivers. Also known as Rana Barda and Jam Barda, this sanctuary is home to endangered birds, mammals, and reptiles. Visitors can spot leopards, snakes, crocodiles, lions, wolves, chili, chinkaras, and beautiful birds like spotted flamingos and crested eagles. Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for adventurous tours and nature lovers alike.
6. Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park, located in Gujarat’s Navsari district, is one of the state’s most beautiful parks, just a short drive from Vansda town. Once belonging to the King of Vansda, it now offers lush, dense forests with trees towering up to 120 feet high, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park boasts 450 plant species and hosts around 115 bird species, including the grey hornbill, paradise flycatcher, racket-tailed drongo, and yellow-backed sunbird. Wildlife sightings may include mongooses, barking deer, jungle cats, leopards, hyenas, and the globally threatened forest spotted owlet. Vansda National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking diverse flora and fauna in a serene setting.
7. Purna Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Dang district of Gujarat, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary features rolling hills and small valleys, creating a picturesque landscape of lush green forests, tribal villages, fields, and rivers. Known for receiving the highest rainfall in the region, the sanctuary covers 160 square kilometers of reserved forest. It is home to a variety of elusive species, including barking deer, Indian civet cats, common mongooses, bonnet macaques, leopards, pythons, flying squirrels, hyenas, chitals, sambars, four-horned antelopes, grey jungle fowls, and various flycatchers. Purna Wildlife Sanctuary offers a rich and diverse natural habitat for wildlife enthusiasts to explore.
8. Gaga Wildlife Sanctuary
Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1988, Gaga Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular tourist destination in Gujarat. Situated along the Gulf of Kutch coast, it covers 332.87 hectares divided by agricultural lands and wastelands. The sanctuary is home to 12 mammal species, 88 bird species, and eight reptile species. Visitors can see wolves, jackals, blue bulls, jungle cats, and mongooses. Gaga Wildlife Sanctuary is notable for its rare plant species, including Prosopis Juliflora, Suaeda, Dichanthium, Salvadora, and Capparis. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing break from a busy schedule, offering a chance to connect with nature.
9. Mitiyala Wildlife Sanctuary
Located near Gir Forest National Park, Mitiyala Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the five protected areas for Asiatic lions. The sanctuary covers 18.22 square kilometers and is known for its hilly terrain, tall grass, and semi-dry deciduous trees. Before independence, this area was part of Bhavnagar’s royal estate and was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2004. Mitiyala Wildlife Sanctuary is home to over 12 lions, leopards, spotted deer, pangolins, sambar, chinkara, and nilgais (blue bulls). It’s an excellent spot for enjoying natural landscapes and stunning views.
10. Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary
Established in 1982, Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is a well-known national park in Gujarat. Located in the western Satpura Range, south of the Narmada River, the sanctuary is named after the temple of Lord Shiva, which used to be in the area but is now submerged under the Sardar Sarovar. A new Shoolpaneshwar temple has been built near Rajpipla.
Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its stunning valleys, rolling terrain, majestic waterfalls, silent rock formations, lush greenery, and beautiful landscapes. The sanctuary is home to various wildlife, including sloth bears, pangolins, barking deer, leopards, and many species of birds and reptiles. It’s an ideal place to experience nature and wildlife up close.
Conclusion
Gujarat is home to some of India’s most captivating national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. These protected areas offer diverse landscapes, from lush forests and majestic waterfalls to serene rivers and rugged terrain. Each sanctuary and park is a haven for various wildlife species, providing unique opportunities to experience nature’s beauty and biodiversity. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife photographer, or someone seeking tranquility, the top 10 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Gujarat promise unforgettable experiences and a chance to connect with the natural world.
FAQs
Q1: What is the best time to visit these parks and sanctuaries?
Ans: The best time to visit most of the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Gujarat is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent.
Q2: Do I need a permit to visit these sanctuaries?
Ans: Yes, some parks and sanctuaries require visitors to obtain permits. It’s advisable to check with the specific park or sanctuary authorities for the latest requirements and procedures.
Q3: Are guided tours available in these parks?
Ans: Yes, guided tours are available in many of these parks and sanctuaries. Hiring a guide can enhance your experience by providing insights into the area’s flora and fauna.
Q4: Can I stay overnight in the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries?
Ans: Some parks offer lodging options within or near the sanctuary, including forest lodges, guest houses, and campsites. It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Q5: What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Ans: Visitors can expect to see a wide range of wildlife, including Asiatic lions in Gir National Park, blackbucks in Blackbuck National Park, marine life in Marine National Park, sloth bears in Jessore, and wild asses in the Wild Ass Sanctuary.
Q6: Are these parks accessible for people with disabilities?
Ans: Accessibility varies from park to park. It’s recommended to contact the park authorities directly to inquire about specific facilities for visitors with disabilities.
Q7: What should I carry while visiting these parks?
Ans: Visitors should carry essentials like water, snacks, binoculars, sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera. It’s also advisable to carry a first-aid kit.
Q8: Are there any safety guidelines to follow?
Ans: Yes, visitors should follow safety guidelines such as maintaining a safe distance from wildlife, not feeding animals, staying on designated paths, and following the instructions of guides and park officials.
Q9: Can I photograph wildlife in these sanctuaries?
Ans: Yes, photography is generally allowed, but it is important to respect wildlife and their habitat. Some parks may have specific rules or require permits for professional photography.
Q10: Are there any restrictions on what I can bring into the parks?
Ans: Yes, there are usually restrictions on bringing plastic items, loud music equipment, and certain food items into the parks to protect the environment and wildlife. Always check with park authorities for specific guidelines.
