Vast, diverse, deeply spiritual and utterly unforgettable, India is unlike anywhere else on earth – a melting pot of ethnicities and religions, a treasure trove of history and culture, and a curious mixture of chaos and serenity. Stretching across more than three million square kilometres, it encompasses a staggering array of landscapes, vistas and environs, and offers unparalleled travel experiences – from the beautiful beaches of Goa, to the compelling craziness of Kolkata, the sacred Ganges river banks of Varanasi, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in Kashmir and the ancient, exquisitely crafted temples dotted across the entire country. Not to mention the vibrant, friendly people, and the incredible cuisine.
Situated in southern Gujarat, the village of Sasan -also known as Sasan Gir - is best known as the gateway to Gir National Park, a well-renowned wildlife sanctuary unique in being the only place in the world where Asiatic lions are seen in their natural habitat. Other wild animals and birdlife to look out for include the rare Asiatic wild ass, hyenas, Gir foxes, pygmy woodpecker, brown fish owl, and black buck. Twelve kilometres west of Sasan Gir village is Devalia Safari Park, better known as the Gir Interpretation Zone or simply Devalia. This fenced-off compound also offers a view of lions, foxes, spotted deer and mongooses that can be observed on a safari or a guided tour.
As previously described
Situated 65 kilometres southeast of Junagadh, the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Sasan Gir, is a truly unique place. This is the only natural habitat of Asiatic Lions, and is also home to numerous other rare animal species. Leopard, Gir foxes, pygmy woodpecker, brown fish owl, Asiatic wild ass, hyenas and other animals roam the shrublands, riverbanks and forests. In total, the park boasts 37 mammal species and over 300 types of birds. Go on a guided jungle safari, photographers' walk, or flora exploration (the plants and flowers here are also exceptional). Culture enthusiasts will enjoy seeing the colourful Kankai Mata Temple, which is enshrouded in the untouched wilderness. After a long day of adventure, head to the nearby Tulysham Hot Springs for a relaxing wind-down.
Located in the Bhal Region of Saurashtra in Gujarat, Velavadar is a quaint little village home to the Velavadar National Park, also called the Blackbuck National Park, a unique landscape characterised by wide open spaces covered in vast grasslands, boasting a diverse ecosystem famed for its endemic blackbuck population. It is the location of the world’s largest harrier roosting site and shelters other commonly spotted species including foxes, jackals, jungle cats, wolves, hyenas, lesser floricans, wild pigs, and hares. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a bush dinner under the stars at the local Blackbuck Lodge.
Set on the edge of the Little Rann of Kutch, the sleepy village of Dasada is a renowned birdwatching destination bound by the Dasada Wildlife Sanctuary and home to the world's only population of the Indian wild ass (khur), blue-bulls, blackbuck and chinkara. In addition to being the perfect starting point to explore Gujarat's culture, landmarks, landscapes and handicrafts, Dasada is also an excellent base to explore the Great Rann of Kutch, an awe-inspiring powder-white salt marsh in the Thar Desert. For the culturally curious, a trip to various temples and monuments in the vicinity is not-to-be-missed. The pastoral villagers of Dasada are known for their stunning embroideries, and within reach of Dasada is Patan, a small town home to over 100 Jain temples.
