Gir is the perfect place for a two-day trip to experience the thrill of a wildlife safari, explore nearby attractions and enjoy some quiet time amidst nature. Located in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, Gir is best known as the home of the Asiatic lion, but its appeal extends to forest landscapes, birdlife, local culture and peaceful countryside.
The secret to a great getaway is to plan your safari well in advance and not cram too many activities into a short itinerary. With a little preparation, you can enjoy an early morning forest adventure, explore the surrounding area and still have time to relax at your accommodation.
A practical two-day Gir itinerary for couples, families and nature lovers.
Day 1: Gir Arrival, Forest Exploration & Relaxation
Morning: Transfer to your resort & Check-in
Visit the Sasan Gir region well in advance to enjoy your trip. For an afternoon safari booking, spend the morning checking-in, freshening up and getting ready for the day ahead.
By selecting a conveniently located resort in Sasan Gir, you can easily plan your safari, meals and travel times. Rather than darting from place to place, take time to find accommodation that allows you to soak up the natural surroundings.
Settle in and have breakfast or lunch depending on your time of arrival. Now confirm your safari permit, reporting location and departure schedule.
Afternoon: Discover Gir’s wildlife
One of the biggest things you should do is a guided safari in Gir National Park, if it is open on your travel dates and a permit can be obtained.
The safari takes you along designated forest tracks and you may see Asiatic lions, spotted deer, sambar, antelope and a host of birds. Sightings are dependent on natural conditions, so treat it as an opportunity to experience the ecosystem, rather than a guaranteed lion-spotting trip.
Remember these tips:
- Always follow the instructions of your safari guide.
- No loud conversations or sudden movements.
- If you like birdwatching or watching wildlife from a distance, bring binoculars.
- Observe all rules on photography and distance from wildlife.
- Only take what you need and check what is allowed before you go.
If your visit falls during the seasonal closure of Gir, don’t expect a safari; plan your trip according to the official operating calendar. The main Gir jungle safari is usually closed between 16th June to 15th October. Before you finalise your itinerary, do check the official Gir safari portal.
Evening: Enjoy a casual nature experience
Relax for the rest of the evening after your safari. Unwind after your trip, spend time outside or have a relaxing dinner.
You can consider staying at Aranya Gir Resort while comparing accommodation for your trip. Check the location, amenities, room types, food arrangements and its suitability for your dates of travel before booking.
We're trying to find a middle ground between the thrill of seeing wildlife and having enough downtime to enjoy getting away from the city.
Day 2: Devalia Safari, Local Sightseeing & Experiences
Early Morning: Choose another wildlife adventure
If you are looking for another safari experience, then why not consider a visit to the Devalia Safari Park, also known as the Gir Interpretation Zone. Devalia offers a smaller, more personal wildlife experience, in a controlled setting, as compared to the larger forest safari.
The interpretation zone was created to showcase representative features of Gir’s ecosystem, providing an alternative for visitors who wish to learn about local wildlife with a shorter trip.
Things to keep in mind:
- Before you book, do check out the available gipsy or bus safari options.
- Confirm the time of reporting and the expected duration.
- Check weekly closure, as the official booking information shows Wednesday as Devalia’s regular day off.
- Don't schedule Devalia if it will create excessive travel pressure before you leave.
If you did a long safari on Day 1 and want a more relaxed holiday, skip the second safari and have breakfast in the country instead.
Mid-morning: Nearby Places of Interest
After your wildlife activity, spend some time exploring the wider Sasan Gir region. What you choose will depend on your interests, your transport options and your departure schedule.
Think about these activities:
- Local villages: Guided, respectful visits by locals sharing their rural lifestyle and traditional livelihoods with you.
- Birdwatching: Birdwatch in suitable areas of nature. Do not disturb the habitat.
- Nature photography: Don’t just shoot big animals, capture forest scenery, vegetation and landscapes.
- Local food: Try local Gujarati cuisine at a local restaurant or your accommodation.
If they fit your route, you may also want to check out nearby temples or other local attractions. Be sure to check opening hours and travel times before adding specific stops to your itinerary.
Afternoon: Lunch and departure
Return to your hotel for lunch, pick up your luggage and proceed on your journey. Plan another major attraction pre-departure but include a comfortable buffer for road travel.
"This slower finish can make the whole trip more enjoyable if you are travelling with children or older family members."
How to Get the Most Out of Your Two-Day Gir Trip
A little planning can prevent additional expense and last-minute changes. Keep this checklist nearby:
- Allows early book safari: Popular dates may have limited availability. Use the authorised booking channels and check the permit details.
- Select your accommodation wisely: The best nature resort in Sasan Gir for your trip is one that fits in your budget, preferred facilities, travel dates and safari logistics.
- Dress for the weather: Pack comfortable clothes, walking shoes, sun protection and any personal items you need.
- Plan meals around safari times: Please arrange early departures with your accommodation in advance.
- Manage your expectations: Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and no ethical safari operator can promise you will see a lion.
- Respect the forest: Do not feed animals, litter, or ask guides to approach wildlife for photographs.
Note that safari permits, guide charges, vehicle fees and accommodation costs may be separate expenses. Work out a full budget before you leave.
Where to Stay During Your Gir Holiday?
Accommodation is a vital part of a short wildlife break as it determines how easily you can reach safari points and how much time you have to relax.
When comparing resorts, don't just depend on photos. Check out the property’s location, verified guest reviews, room features, dining options, and booking policy.
If you are planning to visit Gir, then do not forget to visit the Aranya Gir Resort. It matches the facilities to your needs, especially if travelling with family or planning an early morning safari.
You can feel like taking a refreshing break, instead of a rushed sightseeing tour, with a good nature stay.
Conclusion
A two-day trip to Gir well planned provides for wildlife viewing, local exploration and time to relax. Day one you will settle in and enjoy a forest safari; day two you can either do Devalia or take it easy and explore the surrounding area.
Book your safari with authorised operators, check seasonal schedules and select accommodations to fit your itinerary. And most importantly, leave room for the unexpected. The best Gir experiences often come from slowing down, noticing the natural surroundings and appreciating the forest beyond its famous lions.