If you are a nature lover or wildlife enthusiast, Gujarat offers one destination that promises an unforgettable experience – Devalia Safari Park. Located near Sasan Gir, this safari park is an integral part of the Gir National Park ecosystem and attracts thousands of visitors every year who wish to witness the splendour of the Asiatic lion and diverse wildlife in their natural surroundings. Here are the top reasons why Devalia Safari Park should be on your travel bucket list.
1. Home to the Majestic Asiatic Lion
The primary reason travellers visit Devalia Safari Park is to see the Asiatic lion, an endangered species found only in Gujarat’s Gir region. Unlike the traditional Gir jungle safari, where lion sightings depend on luck and timing, Devalia offers an almost 100% chance of spotting lions. The park houses several lions that roam freely within the protected fenced area, giving visitors the thrill of seeing them up close in their natural habitat.
2. Rich Diversity of Wildlife
Apart from the iconic lions, Devalia Safari Park is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including:
- Leopards (though rarely seen)
- Spotted deer
- Sambhar deer
- Blue bulls (nilgai)
- Chinkara
- Blackbucks
- Wild boars
This diversity makes Devalia a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts who wish to observe the harmony of predators and herbivores within a single ecosystem.
3. Birdwatcher’s Paradise
If you are a bird lover, Devalia Safari Park offers ample opportunities to spot and photograph various resident and migratory birds. Some commonly seen species include:
- Peacocks
- Eagles
- Vultures
- Parakeets
- Woodpeckers
The park’s landscape with grasslands, water bodies, and forest patches creates the perfect environment for birds to thrive, making it an enriching experience for ornithologists and casual birdwatchers alike.
4. Short Yet Fulfilling Safari Experience
Unlike the traditional jungle safari at Gir, which takes 2-3 hours, Devalia safari lasts 30-45 minutes, making it ideal for visitors with tight schedules or families travelling with elderly members and young children. Despite its short duration, the safari is fulfilling as the park’s compact area increases chances of spotting wildlife without long waits.
5. Safe and Comfortable for All Ages
Devalia Safari Park ensures a safe wildlife experience for all visitors. The park operates open bus safaris and gypsy safaris, guided by trained staff who prioritise visitor safety while sharing insightful information about the park’s animals and ecosystem. This setup is perfect for families, student groups, and solo travellers seeking a comfortable yet adventurous wildlife experience.
6. Affordable Safari Option
One of the biggest advantages of visiting Devalia Safari Park is its affordability. Compared to the regular Gir jungle safari, Devalia offers budget-friendly options, making it accessible to all kinds of travellers:
- Bus Safari: Approximately ₹200 per person for Indian nationals
- Gypsy Safari: Around ₹800-₹1000 per person (including permit and guide)
These reasonable rates ensure that wildlife experiences are not limited to premium travellers but are open to students, families, and backpackers as well.
7. Excellent for Wildlife Photography
For photographers, Devalia offers exceptional opportunities to capture close shots of Asiatic lions, deer, antelopes, and birds. The open safari vehicles and guaranteed animal sightings allow photographers to compose frames without the uncertainties and wait times of traditional jungle safaris.
8. Supports Wildlife Conservation
Visiting Devalia Safari Park also contributes to conservation efforts. The park was created to reduce the tourist load on Gir National Park, ensuring that the natural habitats of lions and other wildlife remain undisturbed by excessive human presence. Your visit not only offers you an educational and thrilling experience but also supports sustainable tourism.
9. Easy Accessibility
Located just 12 km from Sasan Gir village, Devalia Safari Park is easily accessible by road from major Gujarat cities like Junagadh, Rajkot, and Ahmedabad. Its proximity to Sasan Gir makes it a convenient addition to your wildlife itinerary.
- By Air: Nearest airports are Rajkot (160 km) and Diu (110 km)
- By Train: Nearest railway station is Sasan Gir Railway Station
- By Road: State transport buses and private taxis are readily available
10. Perfect for Educational Trips
For schools, colleges, and nature education programs, Devalia Safari Park offers an excellent field learning opportunity. Students get to observe wildlife in a controlled, safe environment while understanding the importance of conservation and biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Devalia Safari Park is between November and March, when the weather is pleasant and animals are more active. The park remains closed during the monsoon season (mid-June to mid-October) due to heavy rains and maintenance schedules.
Final Thoughts
For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Devalia Safari Park is more than just a safari destination. It is a place where you can witness the grandeur of the Asiatic lion, observe diverse wildlife, capture breathtaking photographs, and learn about conservation – all within a short, affordable, and safe visit. On your next trip to Gujarat, make sure Devalia Safari Park finds a place on your itinerary. It promises an experience that will stay with you forever.
