The Gujarat state of western India has roughly 4 National Parks and 23 Wildlife Sanctuaries, which the Forest Department of the Government of Gujarat manages. The most popular wildlife reserves in Gujarat are mentioned below.
Gir National Park
Gir National Park is located in the Junagadh district and is the most popular wildlife destination in Gujarat. The national park draws tourists from across the world and the most iconic attraction of Gir is the Asiatic lions. It is the only habitat of the Asiatic lions in India. Jeep safaris are conducted in the morning and evening slots so that the visitors can enjoy the views of the forest as well as spot a wide range of wildlife species. Gir National Park is easily accessible from Junagadh, and those coming by flight can land at Rajkot or Ahmedabad and continue with a road or rail journey to Gir.
Velavadar Blackbuck National Park
Velavadar Blackbuck National Park in the Bhavnagar district is another unique destination in Gujarat, where the Blackbucks are the main attraction. These majestic Indian antelopes inhabit their natural surroundings, moving freely across open landscapes. Their elegant spiral-shaped horns and contrasting black-and-white coats make them truly distinctive. Often seen in expansive herds across the grasslands, they display fascinating social patterns that reflect the harmony of life in the wild. At Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar, dedicated conservation efforts by the forest department focus on safeguarding this invaluable natural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a thoughtfully managed safari that offers an immersive opportunity to experience the park’s remarkable wildlife, both at close range and from a respectful distance.
Marine National Park
The Marine National Park was formally notified in 1982 under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. It encompasses intertidal zones and forty-two islands spread across the districts of Jamnagar, Devbhumi Dwarka, and Morbi. The park was created to safeguard fragile marine ecosystems and ensure long-term conservation of coastal biodiversity. Initially declared a marine sanctuary in 1980, it covered about 270 square kilometres. A core area of 110 square kilometres was later designated as the Marine Park, including western and eastern sectors. By 1982, the sanctuary expanded to nearly 458 square kilometres, while the present park area extends over 163 square kilometres. Shallow waters support coral reefs and mangroves, forming a highly diverse marine landscape of national ecological importance.
Wild Ass Sanctuary
Wild Ass Sanctuary, popularly known as the Little Rann of Kutch, is an important wildlife reserve located in the Kutch district of Gujarat. Covering an area of nearly 4,953 sq. km, it attracts wildlife lovers and bird watchers from different parts of the world. The sanctuary is best known for protecting the last surviving population of the Indian Wild Ass, a critically endangered species. In addition to this rare animal, the sanctuary supports a wide variety of birdlife. Visitors can spot species such as Greater Flamingos, Eurasian Wigeon, Common Teal, and Demoiselle Cranes. November to February is the best duration to plan a visit when migratory birds arrive in large numbers. Jeep safaris offer a guided way to explore this unique habitat.
Kutch Desert Wildlife Sanctuary
Spreading across nearly 7,506.22 sq. km, this sanctuary is the largest of its kind in the state. The area includes a vast seasonal salt desert that becomes a major breeding ground for thousands of flamingos at the renowned “Flamingo City.” Nearby lies the silent remains of Dholavira, a 5,000-year-old city of the Harappan civilisation, drawing researchers and archaeologists from across the world. Declared a wildlife sanctuary in February 1986, the region forms one of the largest seasonal saline wetlands, with water levels reaching up to 1.5 metres during monsoon months. After October and November, the water gradually dries, turning the land into an expansive salt desert.
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
Located about an hour’s drive from Ahmedabad, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful retreat. Covering an area of 120.82 sq. km, the sanctuary is centred around a shallow freshwater lake surrounded by muddy wetlands and nearly 360 small islands. These conditions make it an ideal winter shelter for thousands of migratory birds. Every year, birds travel long distances from Central Asia, Europe, and Siberia to escape extreme winter conditions. Along with these visitors, many resident and locally migrating bird species are also found here throughout the year. Recognising its ecological importance, the lake and surrounding wetlands were declared a bird sanctuary in April 1969.
