3 Top Things to Do in Gir with Kids

Planning a family vacation that combines adventure, wildlife, and educational experiences for your children? Sasan Gir, home to the famous Gir National Park, is one of the best places in India for a wildlife getaway. Whether your child is an animal lover, a budding nature enthusiast, or simply eager for a fun-filled holiday, Gir has a variety of kid-friendly activities that strike the perfect balance between entertainment and learning.

If you're visiting with your little ones, here are the top 3 things to do in Gir with kids that will leave your family with memories to cherish forever.

1. Take a Wildlife Safari at Gir National Park

No trip to Sasan Gir is complete without experiencing the thrill of a jungle safari. Gir National Park is the only place in Asia where you can spot the majestic Asiatic Lions in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is both educational and thrilling for children.

Why Kids Love It:

The safari experience is like stepping into the pages of a nature magazine. Kids get to spot lions, leopards, deer, jackals, and a wide variety of birds. The open-top jeep ride itself is an exciting adventure, giving them the feel of a real explorer.

What to Expect:

• Best Time to Visit: The park is open from mid-October to mid-June. Winter months (November to February) are ideal for pleasant weather.

• Duration: Each safari lasts around 3 hours.

• Safety: Safari guides and drivers are trained and follow strict protocols, making it safe for families with children.

Tip for Families:

Carry a pair of binoculars and a wildlife book for kids to identify animals. It can turn the trip into a fun game of “spot and learn.”

2. Visit the Devaliya Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone)

If you’re short on time or want a guaranteed lion sighting, Devaliya Safari Park is an excellent alternative to the main jungle safari. This fenced area within Gir offers a quicker and safer way to experience the region’s wildlife.

Why It’s Perfect for Kids:

Devaliya Safari is ideal for younger children who may not be able to endure the longer forest safari. The animals are easier to spot, and the entire area is designed for educational tourism, helping kids understand conservation in a more controlled environment.

What You’ll See:

Apart from lions, kids can spot leopards, blue bulls (nilgai), spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boars, and peacocks. The safari takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is done in closed buses, making it secure for even toddlers.

Educational Value:

There are boards and guides explaining the region’s ecology, flora, and fauna, making it an informative trip that aligns with school science lessons.

3. Explore the Crocodile Breeding Centre and Nature Walks

Located near the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge, the Crocodile Breeding Centre is a unique attraction for families visiting Gir. It’s not every day that children get to see crocodiles up close in a safe environment.

Why It’s Fascinating for Kids:

Watching baby crocodiles and understanding how these reptiles grow is an experience that both thrills and educates. Many kids are naturally curious about such creatures, and this place satisfies that curiosity in a secure, supervised way.

Add a Nature Walk:

Combine your visit with a short nature walk around the area. Many resorts and local guides offer short treks or trails suitable for children, allowing them to observe birds, butterflies, and small mammals.

Bonus: Bird Watching

Gir is home to over 300 species of birds. Encourage your kids to bring a notebook to jot down what they see or sketch the birds—turning the walk into an interactive experience.

Where to Stay: Family-Friendly Resort in Sasangir

A great family vacation is incomplete without a comfortable and welcoming place to stay. When visiting with kids, choose a resort in Sasangir that offers not just proximity to the park but also amenities that cater to families.

Aranya Gir Lion Resort, for instance, offers a perfect blend of nature, comfort, and hospitality. Spacious rooms, kid-friendly meals, a swimming pool, outdoor play areas, and guided activities make it ideal for families. After a long day of safaris and exploration, kids can relax in the open spaces or engage in board games while parents unwind in the serene surroundings.

Other Kid-Friendly Tips for Gir:

• Pack Smart: Carry sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, snacks, water bottles, and light jackets for the early morning safaris.

• Travel Light: A lightweight stroller can be helpful for toddlers, especially if you plan on walking.

• Entertainment: Bring books or tablets for downtime in the resort. Many resorts offer Wi-Fi or TV with kids’ channels.

• Photography Fun: Give your child a simple camera or phone to capture moments—it’s a great way to keep them engaged and build interest in nature photography.

Wrapping Up

Gir is more than just a destination for wildlife enthusiasts—it’s an immersive, educational, and fun experience for families. From spotting lions in their natural habitat to learning about reptiles and birds, there’s never a dull moment for kids in Gir.

When planned right—with a balanced itinerary, plenty of downtime, and a good resort in Sasangir—your family getaway to Gir can be both enriching and relaxing. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready for an unforgettable family holiday in the wild heart of Gujarat.