Tourist Attraction Near Gir

Tourist Attraction Near Gir

Gir National Park holds a distinguished place among the country's wildlife conservation sites. It is renowned for safeguarding the critically endangered Asiatic Lion, making it the only sanctuary of its kind across Asia. Over time, Gir has gained prominence in wildlife conservation efforts and has become a sought-after destination for forest safaris, attracting both domestic and international visitors. In addition to its rich wildlife, Gir is home to several revered temples, hills, museums, forts, and beaches, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the unique history, culture, and traditions of the country’s past rulers.

Top Tourist Attractions Near Gir

Somnath Temple - Somnath is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, renowned for housing one of the revered Jyotirlingas, the sacred abode of Lord Shiva. The town also features several other important religious and historical landmarks, including a cenotaph dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Triveni Tirth bathing ghats, an ancient Sun Temple, the renowned Ahilya Temple, Bakhla Tirth, where it is believed that Lord Krishna met his end, and a cave temple.

Kamleshwar Dam - Kamleshwar Dam is constructed on the Hiran River, one of the seven rivers flowing through the park (including Dhatarvadi, Shetrunji, Shingoda, Machhundri, Raval, and Ambajal), the dam serves as a vital water source and is often referred to as the "lifeline of Gir." Originally established in 1959 for irrigation purposes, the dam spans an impressive area of 7.64 million square meters. It has since become a popular destination for visitors, offering a picturesque spot to enjoy with family. The shimmering waters of the dam, especially during sunset, create a breathtaking view.

Durbar Hall Museum - Also referred to as the City Palace in Uparkot, this site is one of the most significant historical attractions to visit in Gir, Gujarat. The museum houses an extensive collection of silver articles, paintings, costumes, thrones, and tapestries. A particularly noteworthy exhibit is a carpet woven in the Jail of Junagadh. Additionally, the museum showcases various paintings from royal galleries, offering visitors a captivating look into the past. The artifacts on display transport you to a different era, enchanting you with their remarkable craftsmanship. The unique antiques provide a fascinating glimpse into the royal Nawabi lifestyle.

Junagadh Zoo - Located in the Junagadh district, the Junagadh Zoo is renowned for its Gir lions. Established in 1863 by the Nawab to prevent the extinction of these lions, the zoo has since evolved into a well-established safari park. Visitors to the park can experience a glimpse of the Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary, both through its natural surroundings and its diverse collection of wildlife. The zoo is home to several prominent species, including lions, leopards, and tigers. Additionally, it features a well-maintained museum showcasing a variety of paintings, archaeological artifacts, manuscripts, and a dedicated section highlighting the unique history of the region.

Girnar Mountain - Rising to an elevation of 3,672 feet, Girnar is an ancient hill located in Junagadh. During a trek to Girnar Hill, visitors will encounter several notable sites, including Domdar Kund, situated near the Damodar and Baldvji temples. As trekkers navigate the rocky pathways to explore the various summits, they will come across numerous temples representing different sects of Hinduism. Among these temples is the Bhavnath Temple, where one can observe 'naked sadhus' who gather to celebrate Shivratri. After ascending 4,000 steps, and reaching 800 steps before the first summit, trekkers will arrive at a plateau that features a complex of Jain temples.

Uperkot Fort - The oldest part of Junagadh and the focal point of any visit is the Uparkot citadel, which dates back over 2,300 years. With walls reaching heights of up to 20 meters, Uparkot famously endured a 12-year siege. The citadel features caves believed to date from the 1st to 4th centuries AD, adorned with exquisite pillars, entrances, water cisterns, horseshoe-shaped chaitya windows, an assembly hall, and meditation cells. A 300-foot-deep moat, once inhabited by crocodiles, served as an additional defense against attackers. Notable sites within Uparkot Fort include the Buddhist caves, Baba Pyara caves, Adi-Kadi Vav, Navghan Kuvo, and Jama Masjid.

Nalsarovar Lake - Nalsarovar Lake is a renowned water reservoir situated on the outskirts of Sasan-Gir. This location attracts a diverse array of migratory and resident water birds. Common species that can be observed here include the black-headed cuckoo, pied woodpeckers, sparrows, and eagles. The lake offers a picturesque setting that draws enthusiastic birdwatchers from various regions, earning it the title of a "birdwatcher’s paradise."

Kankai Mata Temple - Kankai Mata Temple is a notable attraction within Sasan Gir, situated approximately 25 km from the wildlife sanctuary. Dedicated to Shri Kankeshwari Mataji, the temple is revered by local communities as the protector of shepherds in the Gir Forest. It also serves as a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts. As the only temple in the area, visitors can hear the lions' calls near the adjacent lake.