Home How to Reach Gir National Park from Rajkot: A Complete Travel Guide

onJune 2, 2025

How to Reach Gir National Park from Rajkot: A Complete Travel Guide

Gujarat

7 min read

Planning a thrilling wildlife escape to Gir National Park from Rajkot? You’re in the right place. This detailed and easy-to-follow guide will walk you through every travel option, cost estimate, route, and practical tip to help you reach the home of the majestic Asiatic lions without any confusion. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or planning a family safari, this guide is tailored just for you.

In This Blog

Why Visit Gir National Park?

Gir National Park, located in Gujarat, is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions roam freely in their natural habitat. Besides lions, it’s also home to leopards, antelopes, hyenas, crocodiles, and more than 300 species of birds. From dense forests to rugged hills, Gir offers an immersive jungle experience.

Rajkot, one of Gujarat’s major cities, is only about 160-180 km away from the park depending on the route, making it one of the most convenient gateways to start your Gir adventure. Book Now: 2 Nights, 3 Days Statue of Unity Tour – Full Itinerary

Travel Options from Rajkot to Gir National Park

You can reach Gir National Park from Rajkot via:

By Road (Taxi, Self-drive, or Bus)
By Train (Up to Junagadh/Veraval + local transfer)
By Air (Very limited direct connectivity; mostly via road/train)

Now, let’s explore each of these in detail. Tour Plan to Gir National Park from Surat for a Wildlife Travel Guide

By Road: The Most Flexible and Scenic Route

1. Private Taxi or Cab from Rajkot to Gir

Distance: Approx. 160 to 180 km
Duration: Around 3.5 to 4.5 hours (depending on the route and traffic)
Estimated Cost: ₹2,800 to ₹4,500 (one way)

If comfort, flexibility, and convenience are your top priorities, hiring a private cab is your best bet. Most cabs from Rajkot to Gir will take you directly to Sasan Gir (the main safari entry point), saving you from the hassle of changing transport.

Best Routes to Follow:

Route 1: Rajkot – Gondal – Jetpur – Junagadh – Mendarda – Sasan Gir
Route 2: Rajkot – Dhoraji – Mendarda – Sasan Gir

Both routes offer scenic countryside views and are in decent condition. NH27 and SH26 are the key highways you’ll be using.

Tip: Book your cab in advance using popular platforms like Savaari, MakeMyTrip, or a trusted local Rajkot travel agency.

2. Self-Drive to Gir National Park

If you’re a road trip enthusiast, driving from Rajkot to Gir National Park is a rewarding experience. It gives you the freedom to stop at interesting points along the way like Gondal Palace, Jetpur textile markets, and Junagadh Fort.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Fill up your fuel tank at Rajkot or Junagadh.
Avoid nighttime driving, especially between Jetpur and Gir.
Keep Google Maps or offline maps handy. Network can be patchy in remote areas.

3. State Transport and Private Buses

If you’re on a budget, buses are your most economical option. There are no direct buses to Sasan Gir, but you can take a Rajkot to Junagadh or Rajkot to Veraval bus, and then a local taxi or shared jeep to Sasan Gir.

Fare Range: ₹150 to ₹350
Travel Time: 4.5 to 6 hours

Gujarat State Transport (GSRTC) and private buses (like Patel, Shreenath, etc.) run frequently. However, they tend to get crowded, especially during the holiday season. Explore Gujarat in 7 Days – Full Tour Package & Itinerary

By Train: A Budget-Friendly Option

Rajkot is well-connected by rail to Junagadh, Veraval, and Somnath. While Gir doesn’t have its own railway station, the nearest stations are:

1. Rajkot to Junagadh Junction

Distance from Gir: 55 km
Train Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
Cost: ₹100 – ₹450 depending on the class

From Junagadh, you can hire a cab or take a local bus/shared auto to Gir (around 1.5 to 2 hours more).

2. Rajkot to Veraval

Distance from Gir: 42 km
Train Time: 4 to 5 hours
Cost: ₹120 – ₹500

From Veraval, it’s a smooth journey to Sasan Gir. You’ll find local taxis and auto rickshaws outside the station.

Recommended Trains:

Veraval Express (19569)
Somnath Express (22957)
Intercity Express (19119)

You can check schedules and book your tickets via the IRCTC website or apps like RailYatri and ConfirmTkt.

By Air: Limited but Possible

Although Rajkot has a domestic airport, there are no direct flights to Gir National Park. However, you can fly to Diu Airport or Keshod Airport (when operational) and then travel by road to Gir.

1. Rajkot to Diu (via flight + road)

Flight Time: 1.5 hours (via Mumbai or Ahmedabad)
Distance from Diu to Gir: 110 km
Road Travel: 2.5 to 3 hours

Diu is a coastal town and a nice add-on destination if you want to combine wildlife and beach in one trip.

2. Rajkot to Keshod (check availability)

Keshod Airport is just 40 km from Gir. When flights operate here, it’s the fastest route. However, schedules are irregular.

Note: For now, most travelers prefer road/train travel over air because it’s more direct and reliable. Adventure Awaits: 5 Days Gujarat Wildlife & Beach Tour Plan

Door-to-Door Travel Itinerary Suggestions

Let’s break it down with a practical itinerary so you can choose based on your preferences.

Most Comfortable (Private Cab)

Start early morning from Rajkot
Breakfast in Jetpur or Junagadh
Reach Sasan Gir by noon
Check-in, relax, and go for a sunset walk near the Gir Interpretation Zone

Budget Traveler (Train + Local Jeep)

Board an early morning train to Junagadh or Veraval
Take a local bus or shared taxi to Sasan Gir
Reach by afternoon
Book an early morning safari the next day

Road Trip Lover (Self-drive)

Start early with your own vehicle
Explore Gondal and Junagadh Fort on the way
Reach Gir by late afternoon
Enjoy a peaceful jungle evening

Experience Gujarat Deeply – 15 Days Complete Tour Package

How to Reach Sasan Gir from Junagadh, Veraval, and Diu

Junagadh to Sasan Gir

Distance: 55 km
Travel Time: 1.5–2 hours
Best Options: Cab or shared jeep

Veraval to Sasan Gir

Distance: 42 km
Travel Time: 1–1.5 hours
Best Options: Taxi or local bus

Diu to Sasan Gir

Distance: 110 km
Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours
Scenic coastal drive, best enjoyed with a private car or pre-booked cab

Local Transport Options in Gir

Once you reach Gir, getting around is relatively simple.

Safaris: Book official open jeep safaris through the Gir Jungle Trail Portal
Resort Transfers: Most hotels and resorts offer pickup/drop from Veraval, Junagadh, or even Rajkot
Local Taxis & Autos: Available for short trips to nearby villages or forest zones

Explore Gir National Park Safari Zones – Book Your Wildlife Adventure Now

Where to Stay Near Gir National Park

Some of the most popular places to stay in Sasan Gir include:

The Fern Gir Forest Resort
Woods at Sasan
Gir Jungle Lodge
Saavaj Resort
Asiatic Lion Lodge

Budget travelers can find affordable lodges and guesthouses in nearby villages like Talala and Mendarda.

Tip: Stay at least two nights if you want to experience both the Gir Jungle Trail and Devaliya Safari Park. Travel Made Simple: How to Reach the Statue of Unity from Vadodara

Best Time to Travel Gir National Park from Rajkot

Peak Season: November to March (best wildlife sightings, pleasant weather)
Avoid: Monsoon months (June to mid-October) as the park remains closed

Book your safari permits in advance during peak season, especially weekends and holidays. Experience the Sacred: Triveni Sangam in Somnath – A Must-See

Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip

Book Safari Permits Early: Gir Jungle safaris have limited seats.
Carry Cash: Some rural areas may not support digital payments.
Keep ID Proof Handy: Required for safari entry and hotel check-in.
Start Early: Roads are best navigated during daylight.
Travel Light: Especially for train and bus options.
Respect Wildlife Guidelines: No feeding, teasing, or loud noises. Birding in Pench National Park: A Captivating Birdwatching Experience

Final Thoughts

Traveling from Rajkot to Gir National Park is not only doable but quite rewarding—whether you prefer the freedom of a road trip, the economy of train travel, or a guided experience. With well-laid roads, accessible stations, and regular transport options, you’re never too far from the wild calls of Gir.

So, pack your binoculars, charge your camera, and get ready to witness one of India’s most iconic wildlife experiences. Your journey from Rajkot to the land of the Asiatic lions awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the cheapest way to reach Gir National Park from Rajkot?
Taking a train to Junagadh or Veraval, followed by a local bus or shared cab, is the most budget-friendly way.

2. Are roads from Rajkot to Gir safe for solo travelers or families?
Yes, the roads are safe and frequently used by tourists. Daytime travel is recommended.

3. Can I book Gir Jungle Safari online?
Yes, visit the official site girlion.gujarat.gov.in for permit bookings.

4. Are there direct buses from Rajkot to Sasan Gir?
No direct buses, but you can take a bus to Junagadh or Veraval and transfer to a local taxi.

5. How much time should I plan for the full journey from Rajkot to Gir?
Anywhere from 4 to 6 hours, depending on your mode of travel.

6. Is there network connectivity in Gir?
Connectivity may be weak in deep forest areas but is generally okay around resorts and villages.

7. Which is better: Junagadh or Veraval as a stopover?
Junagadh is better for sightseeing (fort, museum), while Veraval is closer to Gir.

How to Reach Badrinath Temple from Dehradun: Your Ultimate Pilgrimage Guide

Birding in Pench National Park: A Captivating Birdwatching Experience

Write a Comment

What are You Looking For?

How to Reach Gir National Park from Rajkot: A Complete Travel Guide

Why Visit Gir National Park?

Travel Options from Rajkot to Gir National Park