Gir Forest | Mari Najare Gujarat
03 Sept 2020 • by Aditi Raval • 2 min read
As I stepped into the heart of Gir, often referred to as 'Mother', I felt an immediate connection to the wild. Home to the majestic Asiatic lions, Gir offered me an experience that paralleled the untamed beauty of South Africa.
My journey began at one of the three entry points into Gir National Park, where I was soon enveloped by lush greenery and the distant roars of lions. The thrill of the jungle safari here is unmatched, with every turn and trail presenting a new wonder. I had heard from many that spotting a lion is a game of luck. I was unsure if it would take an entire day to see one. As soon as I entered the jungle safari, however, I heard a deadly roar! The thrill of seeing a huge lion passing just a meter away from my car is indescribable. That was just the beginning of my adventurous journey!
The King of Forest : Asiatic Lion
Gir is not only a sanctuary for lions but also a vibrant habitat for an array of birds, making every glance through the binoculars a delightful surprise.
Another beautiful experience was seeing the Maldhari community living with the wildlife. They were humble hosts and offered me some really good tea. As I sipped the warm brew, I listened to their stories. The authentic food served in local dhabas is soul-filling, I must say!
Loved their Hospitality; especially the whole-milk tea!
The Siddi community, which has kept African culture alive for decades, shared tales of coexistence with nature that were as enriching as they were inspiring.
Dhamal Dance by Siddi Community was fun
Throughout my visit, a pervasive thought stayed with me: the pressing need to protect this enchanting habitat. It's clear that the local communities and the forest department are deeply invested in the conservation of Gir, but they need our support. With every visit, we contribute to their efforts, and with every story shared, we spread awareness.
The tranquility of Jamjir Falls was another highlight, where the soothing sound of water cascading through the forest painted a serene backdrop.
Jamjir waterfall is risky for those who don’t know how to swim
As I document my experiences in Gir for my video series 'Mari Najare Gujarat,' I aim not only to showcase the beauty of this region but also to inspire actions that support the preservation of our natural world. As I always say, 'Exploration is incomplete without being responsible!' I follow it, and I hope you give it a shot too!
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