List of National Parks in Gujarat

Gujarat, the vibrant western state of India, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, and bustling cities. However, beyond the urban landscape lies a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers – the national parks of Gujarat. With diverse ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, and a plethora of flora and fauna, these parks offer an immersive experience in the lap of nature. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the hidden gems of Gujarat’s wilderness.

How many National Parks are there in Gujarat?

Gujarat is home to four national parks, each offering a unique ecosystem and wildlife experience. These parks include Gir National Park, renowned for its Asiatic lions; Blackbuck National Park, habitat of the endangered blackbuck antelope; Marine National Park, India’s first marine sanctuary; and Vansda National Park, nestled amidst lush greenery. Together, these parks showcase the diverse biodiversity and natural beauty of Gujarat’s wilderness.

Largest National Park in Gujarat

Gir National Park, the largest national park in Gujarat, was designated as a wildlife sanctuary by the Government of India on September 18, 1965, with the primary aim of conserving the Asiatic Lion population. Covering a vast area of 1412 square kilometers, it’s a sanctuary rich in biodiversity. This expansive sanctuary, which includes 258 square kilometers of core area, serves as a vital habitat for the endangered Asiatic Lion, making it a cornerstone in conservation efforts for this majestic species.

List of National Parks in Gujarat

Gujarat is home to four national parks, each offering a unique ecosystem and wildlife experience. Here is the list of four national parks in Gujarat:

Vansda National Park

Establishment: 1979

Area: 23.99 square kilometers

Location: Navsari District

Vansda National Park, also known as Bansda National Park, is a protected area nestled in the lush woodlands of the Dangs and southern Gujarat. Covering approximately 24 square kilometers along the Ambika River, it lies about 65 km east of Chikhali and 80 km northeast of Valsad. Established in 1979, the park boasts dense deciduous forests and diverse flora and fauna, with attractions including the Gira Waterfalls, a botanical garden, and a deer breeding center.

Blackbuck National Park

Establishment: 1976

Area: 34.08 square kilometers

Location: Bhavnagar district

Blackbuck National Park, situated in Velavadar, Bhavnagar District, Gujarat, India, was established in 1976. Covering 34.08 square kilometers, it was once a hunting ground for the maharaja of Bhavnagar. Bordered by the Gulf of Khambhat on the south, it features flat grasslands attracting herds of antelope. Conservation efforts here focus on the blackbuck, wolf, and the endangered lesser florican, with the park serving as a crucial habitat for these species.

Gir National Park

Establishment: 1965

Area: 1,410.30 square kilometers

Location: Junagarh, Gir Somnath and Amreli districts

Gir National Park, also known as Sasan Gir, is a renowned forest and wildlife sanctuary located near Talala Gir in Gujarat, India. Established in 1965, it spans an area of 1,410.30 square kilometers, with 258.71 square kilometers designated as a national park and 1,151.59 square kilometers as a wildlife sanctuary. Home to the Asiatic Lion, the park saw a population increase to 523 in the 2015 census. It remains closed during the monsoon season from June 16 to October 15 annually.

Marine National Park

Establishment: 1982

Area: 162.89 square kilometers

Location: Dwarka district

Marine National Park, situated on the southern shore of the Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat, India, was established in 1982, covering a core area of 110 square kilometers. Initially declared as a marine sanctuary in 1980, it spans 270 square kilometers from Okha to Jodiya. With 42 islands along the Jamnagar coast, the park is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs. Pirotan Island stands out as a prominent attraction within the park.