If you are planning a trip to Gir National Park in Gujarat, don’t miss out on Devalia Safari Park, officially known as the Gir Interpretation Zone. Designed to offer visitors a quick yet authentic glimpse of Gir’s wildlife, Devalia Safari Park is the perfect alternative for those who want to witness Asiatic lions and other wildlife without venturing deep into the dense forest. Here is a complete guide to Devalia Safari Park timings, tickets, and what to expect on your visit.
About Devalia Safari Park
Devalia Safari Park is a fenced interpretation zone spanning around 412 hectares within the Gir forest ecosystem. It was established by the Gujarat Forest Department to reduce tourist pressure on the core area of Gir National Park while providing an assured wildlife viewing experience for visitors.
The park simulates the natural habitat of Gir, housing Asiatic lions, leopards, blue bulls (nilgai), blackbucks, spotted deer, sambar, wild boars, and several bird species in an open yet secured environment.
Timings of Devalia Safari Park
Devalia Safari Park remains open from mid-October to mid-June, as it closes during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-October) due to heavy rains and animal breeding periods.
Regular Safari Timings:
- Morning Safari: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Afternoon Safari: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Weekly Holiday: Wednesday (closed for maintenance)
It is advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before safari slots, especially during weekends and holidays, to complete ticket verification and boarding procedures smoothly.
Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit Devalia Safari Park are December to March, when the weather is pleasant, wildlife is active, and photography conditions are ideal. During summers (April to June), the temperatures rise but sightings often improve as animals move towards water sources in the park.
Tickets and Booking Details
Entry Fees
As of 2025, approximate ticket rates for Devalia Safari Park are:
- Bus Safari (per Indian adult): INR 150
- Bus Safari (per Indian child 3-12 years): INR 90
- Gypsy Safari (private vehicle with guide and permit): INR 2800 – INR 3500 per trip (varies by season and operator)
- Foreign Nationals: Higher charges apply, generally around INR 280 per adult.
Camera charges are additional and vary depending on lens type and usage.
Booking Process
- Online Booking: You can book tickets in advance through the Gujarat Forest Department official website to avoid long queues and ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
- On-Spot Booking: Limited tickets are also available directly at the Devalia Safari Park counter, but availability is not guaranteed during weekends or holidays.
Carry valid government-issued photo ID proofs (original) for verification while boarding the safari vehicle.
What to Expect at Devalia Safari Park
1. Almost Guaranteed Lion Sightings
Unlike Gir Jungle Safari, where spotting lions depends on tracking and luck, Devalia Safari Park offers near-certain sightings of Asiatic lions as they roam freely within the fenced zone. This makes it an excellent choice for tourists with limited time or those who might miss the main jungle safari permits.
2. Two Types of Safaris
Devalia Safari Park offers:
- Bus Safari: The most common option, conducted in open or closed forest department buses accommodating around 20-25 people. It ensures safety and optimal viewing for all.
- Gypsy Safari: Limited in number, private gypsy safaris are ideal for wildlife photographers or travellers preferring a personalised experience. They cost higher but offer better flexibility in viewing and photography angles.
3. Diverse Wildlife Sightings
Besides lions, expect to see:
- Leopards resting in shaded areas or trees
- Blue bulls (nilgai) grazing across grasslands
- Blackbucks and spotted deer in herds
- Sambar, wild boars, peafowls, and other birds adding to the biodiversity experience.
4. Comfortable and Safe Experience
Since the park is fenced and well-monitored, it offers a safe safari experience for families with children and elderly visitors. The smooth safari route and organised boarding system ensure comfortable rides without the ruggedness of forest tracks.
5. Educational Value
Devalia Safari Park is not just a tourism zone but also an interpretation centre, educating visitors about Gir’s ecosystem, conservation efforts for the Asiatic lion, and the importance of wildlife protection. Guides share insightful facts, making it an enriching experience for students and nature enthusiasts.
6. Quick Safaris
The 30-40 minute safari duration makes Devalia ideal for travellers on tight schedules or those combining multiple attractions like Somnath Temple, Junagadh, or Diu in their Saurashtra itinerary.
Things to Remember Before Your Visit
- Wear neutral, earthy-coloured clothes to blend with the environment and not disturb wildlife.
- Do not feed animals or litter in the park.
- Maintain silence for better sightings and to respect wildlife habitats.
- Listen to your guide’s instructions at all times for safety and enhanced experience.
- Carry water bottles, sunglasses, and hats, especially during summer safaris.
- Photography is allowed, but flash usage is prohibited to avoid disturbing animals.
Final Thoughts
Devalia Safari Park is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Gir. It offers an assured, comfortable, and educational wildlife experience at an affordable cost and in a shorter duration compared to Gir Jungle Safari. Whether you are travelling solo, with friends, or on a family trip, visiting Devalia Safari Park will add immense value to your Gir itinerary.
Witnessing the regal Asiatic lions in their natural habitat, along with other vibrant species, makes Devalia Safari Park an unmissable destination that combines the thrill of a jungle safari with the convenience and safety of a well-managed interpretation zone.
