Best Time to Visit Gir National Park – Complete Season & Weather Guide
Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, India, is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions roam freely in the wild. This vast forest, spread over 1,400 square kilometers, is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a paradise for wildlife lovers.
However, choosing the right time to visit is crucial for a successful safari experience. Different seasons offer unique experiences – from pleasant winter safaris to hot summer months when lions are easier to spot.
In this guide, you will learn:
✅ Best season to visit Gir National Park
✅ Month-wise weather guide
✅ Best time for lion sightings
✅ Gir safari booking tips
Best Time to Visit Gir National Park
The best time to visit Gir National Park is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for wildlife sightings. April to mid-June is also good for spotting Asiatic lions, though the temperatures can be high. Safaris operate daily during this season, offering the best chances to explore Gir’s rich biodiversity.
Ready to explore the wild? Don’t miss our Gir Safari Booking Guide for step-by-step booking tips and best timings!
1. Best Season to Visit Gir National Park
The best time to visit Gir National Park is from November to March, when the weather is comfortable and wildlife activity is high.
🗓️ Season-wise Breakdown:
| Season | Months | Weather | Wildlife Sightings | Tourist Footfall |
| Winter | November – February | 10°C – 25°C (Cool & Pleasant) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent) | High |
| Summer | March – May | 25°C – 40°C (Hot & Dry) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best for Lions) | Moderate |
| Monsoon | June – October | 25°C – 35°C (Rainy & Humid) | ❌ (Park Closed) | Not Available |
🚫 Note: Gir National Park remains closed from June to mid-October due to the monsoon season. However, the Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone) remains open.
📌 Quick Tip:
- For a comfortable trip: Visit November to February.
- For the best lion sightings: Visit March to May when animals come near water sources.
2. Month-Wise Gir National Park Weather & Travel Guide
📅 November – February (Winter) – Best Time for Safari
✅ Temperature: 10°C – 25°C
✅ Wildlife Sightings: High (Lions, leopards, deer, birds)
✅ Safari Experience: Pleasant, cool breeze, lush greenery
✅ Tourist Footfall: Peak Season – Book Safaris in Advance
📌 Best for: Families, photographers, and casual travelers
📅 March – May (Summer) – Best for Lion Spotting
✅ Temperature: 25°C – 40°C
✅ Wildlife Sightings: Highest (Lions gather near water sources)
✅ Safari Experience: Hot but rewarding for serious wildlife lovers
✅ Tourist Footfall: Moderate, easier to get safari slots
Maximize your sightings! Discover the top safari zones in our Jim Corbett National Park Guide.
📌 Best for: Wildlife photographers & serious wildlife enthusiasts
📅 June – October (Monsoon) – Park Closed
🚫 Gir National Park remains closed due to heavy rains.
✅ Devalia Safari Park remains open for limited wildlife viewing.
📌 Not ideal for safaris, but you can explore nearby areas like Somnath & Junagadh.
3. Best Time for Safari in Gir National Park
Gir Safari Timings:
| Safari Type | Timing | Best Months |
| Morning Safari | 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM | November – May |
| Evening Safari | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | November – May |
🔹 Morning safaris are best for photography & birdwatching.
🔹 Evening safaris are great for lion sightings, as big cats become active.
📌 Pro Tip: Book your Gir safari at least 30-60 days in advance, especially for the winter season!
4. Nearby Attractions to Explore
While visiting Gir, consider exploring these top attractions:
🛕 Somnath Temple – A famous Jyotirlinga, just 50 km from Gir.
🏞️ Devalia Safari Park – A fenced safari zone offering quick lion sightings.
🌳 Girnar Hills – A spiritual & trekking destination near Junagadh.
🏝️ Diu Island – A beach getaway just 110 km from Gir.
Read more: Best month to visit Gir for wildlife photography
FAQs – Best Time to Visit Gir
1. What is the best time to visit Gir for lion sightings?
- March to May (Summer) is the best time, as lions frequently gather near water sources.
2. When does Gir National Park close for visitors?
- June to mid-October (Monsoon) – The park remains closed due to heavy rainfall.
3. When is Gir least crowded?
- April to May (Summer) has fewer tourists, making it easier to get safari permits.
4. Is it safe to visit Gir in summer?
- Yes, but expect hot temperatures (35°C – 40°C). Carry light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and water.
5. Can I visit Gir during the monsoon?
- The main park remains closed, but you can visit Devalia Safari Park.
Conclusion – Plan Your Gir Safari at the Right Time!
✔ Best Season: November to March for comfortable weather & great wildlife sightings
✔ Best Time for Lion Spotting: March to May (Summer)
✔ Avoid: June to October (Monsoon – Park remains closed)
🚩 Plan your Gir safari in the best season and witness the majestic Asiatic lions in their natural habitat! 🦁🌿
