Birding Tour of Rajasthan & Gujarat

Much of Rajasthan and Gujarat may seem dry, and they may not seem to be ideal places for bird watching tours. But a deeper look will prove you wrong. Much of the wildlife here is uniquely adapted to these habitats, making them some of the rarest birds and animals in the Indian subcontinent.

However, this specialization of these creatures is proving to be to be their undoing. With the growing need for farmland and water, as well as urban and rural development, and the inability for these birds to adapt outside their fragile environment, it is up to the fantastic conservation efforts being carried out here, along with constant monitoring, to help save these species.

On this special tour, we will not only get to see and photograph the unique arid-climate species of India, in Gujarat’s Sasan Gir Forest and also learn about how they and their fragile habitats can be saved. The best birding lodge in Gir is the Gir Birding Lodge. Located right beside the Gate to the forest is the wildlife specialty lodge to stay in while in Gir.

Phone: +918010450000
Email: info@asianadventures.in
https://linktr.ee/aatoursandlodges

Lions aren’t the only denizens of Gir, it’s these tribes too!

Located in the Indian state of Gujarat, Gir National Park stands as the last bastion for the majestic Asiatic Lions. Once facing extinction and numbering only fifteen, the population of the Asiatic Lions has risen slowly over the years to five hundred and twenty-three thanks to the conservation efforts by the forest department and the local tribes who live in harmony with these big cats. There are two main tribes that dwell in and around Gir National Park, and whenever you visit the park you must make it a point to visit these tribes as well to experience their unique culture. It will reaffirm your faith in the fact that sustainable living isn’t just a far-fetched concept but a possibility. Let us shed a little light on them.

Maldharis

Maldharis are one of the oldest tribes of Gujarat and have been living in the Gir Forest for over a thousand years. Herders by profession, their tolerance towards the Lions is one of the major reasons the Lions have been flourishing in Gir. They are the perfect example of how it is possible for humans to coexist with nature. The Maldharis do not view Lions as a threat but as brethren and the losses that they incur, they believe it is their offering to the Lions for sharing their habitat with them. Such an ideology can be instrumental in conserving the precious wildlife of our country, and such a value system can only be found in India. Such an interesting community is worth studying which is why we organize excursions to the Maldhari villages to meet and greet these ‘Lion People’. Besides being torchbearers for conservation, Maldharis also possess excellent culinary skills. ‘Maldhari Thali’ is something you must try if you ever visit Gujarat.

Siddhis

Inhabiting the areas surrounding the Gir Forest National Park, Siddhis are a native African tribe which were brought to the Western Coast over three hundred years ago and have been living there ever since. Though they have adopted the regional language and customs, they still practice some of their original traditions, Dhamaal dance being one of them. Some lodges near the park organize these dance performances, Gir birding lodge being one of them. Many of the tribesmen have now become forest rangers and guides and have taken on the mantle for the conservation of the unique wildlife of Gir National Park.

Adventures of Gir National park

Every year I planned a trip with my family and friends to refresh ourselves. We often visit the hill station. But my 13-year-old son loves adventure so all members agreed to visit Gir National Park. It is famous for Asiatic lions. Other than Africa this is the only place where Asiatic lions can be spotted. The national park is famous among nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

History: Maharajas and Nawabs of Junagadh used this place for hunting Lions. Most of the lions were hunted during British Raj. This is the period when British officers were invited by Maharajas and Nawabs for hunting. In 1960 hunting was banned here by Indian Government. In 1975 it was declared a national park. The core land of the park is spread over 258 sq km and in 1153 sq km it has a sanctuary.

Geography The seven rivers Hiran, Saraswati, Datardi, Shingoda, Machhundari, Godavari, and Raval nurture the park. The park has four dams due to which   animals get water. The Kamleshwar dam is the biggest among four dams and considered as the lifeline of the park. It has semi-evergreen, evergreen and scrubs like Babul. The major part of the park has a dry climate.   The park has Acacia, Banyan, Jamun, Tendu, and Dhak trees.   

 Top Attractionspf Sasan Gir

Asiatic lions are the main attraction of the jungle. It is the kingdom of Asiatic lions where they roam freely. You will also find several kinds of wild animals, birds and reptiles during Gir national park safari. The park has about 410 Asiatic Lions and 280 Leopards. It is also the habitat for 38 species of mammals and more than 2000 species of insects.  

 Birding in Nalsarovar Lake

It is popular among bird lovers. It is a home for more than 300 species of birds like Shrike, Gray Drongo, Pied Woodpecker, Black Ibis, Shaheen Falcon, Bonelli Eagle, Great Horned Owl, Tawny eagle etc. Crocodile Breeding Farm Mainly it is the place for breeding crocodiles but you will also find about 37 species of reptiles. It has hatcheries and breeders who are essential for their preservation.LocationIt is located about 65 km south-east in the Junagadh district of Gujarat.  Ahmadabad is 360 km from this place.  The Sasan Gir village has its entrance and reception. 

It is also called Sasan Gir safari. Stay and Entry FeeSasan Gir resorts offer comfortable villas; tents and cottages for your stay but pre-booking are preferable. 
The Gir Birding Lodge is an Eco- friendly Wildlife Speciality Lodge. The Cottages are set beautifully amidst a Mango Orchard, home to various birds of western India.

How to Reach Gir National park

Airport: Keshod at 60 km.

Railway Station: Junagadh at 65 km.

Road: It is well connected to major cities.