Gujarat to Get Asia’s First Desert Night Safari

Asia’s first ever desert night safari set to be built in the State of the Gujarat, it is approved by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) on August 12, 2026, and this project will be implemented by the Gujarat Forest Department. Occupying approximately 103 hectares of land, the project combines a desert-themed zoological park and facilities of a night safari. Being estimated at ₹542.14 crore, the development will help in promoting wildlife awareness and eco-tourism, as well as displaying animals typical for arid and desert territories.

Where Will the Desert Night Safari Be Developed?

The new Desert Zoological Park and Night Safari is going to be developed in Juna Deesa, Banaskantha district, Gujarat.

Approximately 103 hectares of government-owned land will be used for the development of the project, based on the desert and arid ecosystems.

The project was approved by the Central Zoo Authority on August 12, 2026, thus opening the way to the development by the Gujarat Forest Department.

Why Is This Project Going To Be Special?

Drive-through night safari, allowing visitors to see animals at night, will become the main feature of the project.

It is planned that the project will include five night safari enclosures. In addition to that, day zoo will also be developed, offering visitors the chance to visit the wildlife park not only at night but also during the day.

The desert theme will provide an ecosystem-based setting for the proposed animal collection.

What Animals Will be Witnessed?

It is anticipated that there will be about 2,700 animals and birds belonging to about 83 different species.

Some of the species that will be included in the collection are as follows,

• Chinkara
• Blackbuck
• Indian Wild Ass
• Cheetah
• Giraffe
• Zebra
• Kangaroo
• Emu

The animal collection will include both animals native to the arid areas of India as well as some exotic animals.

How Much Money is Being Spent on the Project?

The total cost for this project is estimated to be about ₹542.14 crore.

This money will be spent in the construction of the zoological park and night safari enclosures.

Key Facts About Gujarat’s Desert Night Safari

• Project: Desert Zoological Park and Night Safari
• Location: Juna Deesa
• District: Banaskantha
• State: Gujarat
• Area: About 103 hectares
• Estimated Cost: ₹542.14 crore
• Approval: Central Zoo Authority
• Approval Date: August 12, 2026
• Animal Collection: Around 2,700 animals and birds
• Species Nearly: 83
• Night Safari: Five dedicated enclosures
• Theme: Desert and arid ecosystems