Gir Forest is located in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, famous for being the only natural habitat of Asiatic lions. Delhi, the capital city of India, is a major travel hub from where many wildlife enthusiasts and tourists start their journey to Gir Forest.

This route is commonly traveled by nature lovers and wildlife photographers eager to explore the Gir National Park. This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Delhi to Gir Forest, including train, bus, car, and flight options, along with practical tips for a smooth journey.

Getting from Delhi to Gir Forest – Main Options

Train

Train travel is popular for its affordability and scenic routes, suitable for travelers who prefer a relaxed journey. Several trains connect Delhi to Junagadh or Veraval, the nearest railway stations to Gir Forest.

• The main railway stations near Gir Forest are Junagadh and Veraval, approximately 60 km and 65 km away respectively, with daily trains from Delhi’s Hazrat Nizamuddin and New Delhi stations.

• Travel time by train ranges from 24 to 30 hours, depending on the train service, with fares typically between INR 800 to 2,000 for sleeper and AC classes.

• Trains like the Saurashtra Express and Veraval Express are popular, but they can get crowded during festival seasons, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable.

• Junagadh station is well connected by local buses and taxis to Gir Forest, but last-mile connectivity may require a pre-booked cab or shared jeep service.

• Monsoon season can cause delays due to waterlogging on tracks, so check train status before departure, especially from June to September.

Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly option with frequent services from Delhi to Gujarat cities near Gir Forest. This mode suits travelers comfortable with long road journeys and looking for economical travel.

• Direct buses from Delhi to Junagadh or Rajkot are available from ISBT Kashmere Gate and Anand Vihar, with journey times around 30 to 36 hours covering roughly 1,200 km.

• State transport buses by GSRTC and private operators run sleeper and semi-sleeper coaches, with fares ranging from INR 900 to 1,500 depending on the service quality.

• Night buses are common, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing, but buses can be crowded during major holidays like Diwali and Navratri.

• Road conditions on National Highway 48 and NH 27 are generally good, but toll plazas and occasional traffic jams near cities can add to travel time.

• Once at Junagadh bus stand, local shared autos and taxis are available for the 60 km trip to Gir Forest, but pre-booking a private cab is recommended for comfort.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Gir Forest offers flexibility and the chance to explore Gujarat’s countryside at your own pace. This option suits those comfortable with long-distance driving and Indian highways.

• The distance from Delhi to Gir Forest is about 1,200 km via NH 48 and NH 27, taking approximately 22 to 26 hours depending on traffic and stops.

• Major cities on the route include Jaipur, Udaipur, and Rajkot, where you can plan overnight stays or rest breaks.

• Toll plazas are frequent on this route, with toll charges totaling around INR 1,200 to 1,500; keep cash or FASTag ready for smooth passage.

• Fuel stations and dhabas are available along the highway, but it is advisable to fill up in bigger towns like Jaipur or Udaipur to avoid delays.

• Monsoon rains can cause slippery roads and occasional flooding, so check weather forecasts and avoid night driving during heavy rains.

• Parking near Gir Forest is limited; plan to park at designated areas and use local transport or guided tours to enter the sanctuary.

Flight

Flying is the fastest way to reach the region near Gir Forest, suitable for travelers with limited time. The nearest airports are Rajkot and Diu, with onward road travel required.

• Flights from Delhi to Rajkot take about 2 hours, with multiple daily flights operated by airlines like IndiGo and Air India, fares ranging from INR 3,000 to 7,000.

• Rajkot Airport is approximately 100 km from Gir Forest, requiring a 2.5 to 3-hour taxi or bus ride on NH 27 to reach the sanctuary.

• Diu Airport is another option, about 90 km from Gir Forest, but has fewer flights and limited connectivity from Delhi.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber are available at Rajkot Airport, but booking in advance is recommended for long-distance travel to Gir.

• During peak tourist season, flights can be fully booked, so early booking is essential, especially around winter months and holidays.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Gir Forest, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.

• Book your train or flight tickets well in advance through IRCTC or airline websites to secure preferred dates and avoid last-minute price hikes.

• If traveling by train, choose Junagadh station for better road connectivity to Gir Forest and arrange a taxi or shared jeep in advance for the last 60 km.

• For bus travelers, check the latest GSRTC schedules online and opt for sleeper coaches for overnight comfort during the long journey.

• If driving, plan your route with overnight stops in cities like Jaipur or Udaipur to avoid fatigue and check FASTag balance for toll payments.

• Pack essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit, as options can be limited on the highway and near the forest area.

• Upon arrival near Gir Forest, confirm your safari bookings or permits ahead of time, as these are required to enter the sanctuary and can sell out quickly.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a copy of your ID and permits when visiting Gir Forest, as forest officials conduct regular checks for visitor safety and conservation.

• Drink only bottled or boiled water during your journey to avoid waterborne illnesses common in rural areas along the route.

• Book train and bus tickets online through IRCTC and GSRTC portals to avoid scams and ensure confirmed seats, especially during peak travel seasons.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for local travel in Junagadh and Rajkot to avoid overcharging and ensure reliable service.

• Pack light but include rain gear if traveling during monsoon months, as sudden showers can disrupt travel plans and local transport availability.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended in vehicles or public places, as petty theft can occur in crowded stations and bus stands.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to visit Gir Forest is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Summers can be hot and uncomfortable for travel.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains that may cause roadblocks and train delays, so plan accordingly if traveling during this period.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Navratri when trains and buses are overcrowded and accommodation near Gir Forest is limited.

• Winter mornings can have fog on highways near Delhi and Rajasthan, causing slower travel; start early to avoid delays.

• Departing Delhi late at night or early morning can help you avoid city traffic and reach Gujarat faster by road or train.

• Summer heat in Gujarat can exceed 40°C, so carry adequate water and avoid midday travel to stay comfortable and safe.

Arrival at Gir Forest & What to Expect

When you arrive near Gir Forest, most travelers reach Junagadh or Veraval stations or bus stands, which have basic facilities and local transport options. From here, taxis, shared jeeps, and forest-approved vehicles are available for the final journey to the sanctuary.

Accommodation options are available in nearby towns like Sasan Gir and Talala, ranging from budget guesthouses to eco-resorts. It is advisable to pre-book your stay and safari permits to avoid last-minute hassles. Local transport within the forest area is regulated, so use authorized vehicles for safaris and guided tours.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Gir Forest from Delhi depends on your budget and time. Flights to Rajkot combined with a taxi offer the quickest route, while trains provide a budget-friendly and scenic alternative. Driving offers flexibility but requires careful planning and rest stops.

Plan your journey by booking tickets and accommodations early, especially during peak tourist seasons. Keep local weather and road conditions in mind, and arrange last-mile transport in advance. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Gir Forest, experiencing the unique wildlife and natural beauty of this special Indian sanctuary.