Dhola to Gir National Park

Dhola to Gir National Park

Gir National Park is one of the most popular national parks in India. It is home to a large population of Asiatic lions, as well as other wildlife such as leopards, tigers, and elephants.

Dhola is a small town located about 60 km from Gir National Park. It is a good base for exploring the park, as it offers a variety of accommodation and dining options.

Language

The official language of Gujarat, the state in which Gir National Park is located, is Gujarati. However, English is also widely spoken in the park and in Dhola.

Currency

The official currency of India is the Indian rupee (INR). You can exchange currency at banks and currency exchange counters in Dhola and Gir National Park.

Distance

The distance from Dhola to Gir National Park is approximately 60 km. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Dhola to the park.

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Gir National Park from Dhola:

• By bus: There are regular buses that run from Dhola to Gir National Park. The journey takes about 2 hours and costs around INR 100.
• By train: There is no direct train from Dhola to Gir National Park. However, you can take a train from Dhola to Junagadh, and then take a bus or taxi from Junagadh to the park.
• By car: The best way to reach Gir National Park from Dhola is by car. The journey takes about 2 hours, and you can stop along the way to admire the scenery.

Expenses

The cost of your trip to Gir National Park will vary depending on your budget and travel style. However, here is a general overview of what you can expect to spend:

• Accommodation: There are a variety of accommodation options available in Dhola and Gir National Park, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The cost of accommodation will vary depending on the type of room you choose and the time of year you visit.
• Food: There are a variety of restaurants and cafes in Dhola and Gir National Park, offering a range of cuisines. The cost of food will vary depending on the type of restaurant you choose and the dishes you order.
• Activities: There are a variety of activities available in Gir National Park, such as game drives, safaris, and nature walks. The cost of activities will vary depending on the type of activity you choose and the duration of the activity.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Gir National Park is during the winter months (October to March). The weather is pleasant during this time, and the animals are more active.

What to Eat

There are a variety of restaurants and cafes in Dhola and Gir National Park, offering a range of cuisines. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Gujarati thali: A traditional Gujarati thali consists of a variety of dishes, including rice, dal, vegetables, roti, and papadum.
• Dhokla: A steamed lentil cake that is a popular Gujarati snack.
• Fafda: A deep-fried snack made from chickpea flour.
• Jalebi: A sweet deep-fried pastry that is popular in India.

Where to Go

There are a variety of places to visit in Gir National Park, including:

• Devalia Safari Park: A safari park that is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and leopards.
• Kamleshwar Dam: A dam that is popular for birdwatching.
• Gir Interpretation Zone: A museum that provides information about the park and its wildlife.
• Sinh Sadan: A lion sanctuary that is home to a large population of Asiatic lions.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Gir National Park:

• What is the best way to see lions in Gir National Park? The best way to see lions in Gir National Park is to take a game drive or safari. Game drives are typically conducted in the early morning or late afternoon, when the animals are most active.
• What is the cost of a game drive in Gir National Park? The cost of a game drive in Gir National Park varies depending on the type of game drive you choose and the duration of the game drive. However, you can expect to pay around INR 1,000 for a 2-hour game drive.
• Can I stay overnight in Gir National Park? Yes, there are a number of lodges and guesthouses located inside Gir National Park. However, it is important to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak season.