Siddi community of Gir region

Asiatic Lions in Gir National Park

Recently National Geographic and Skoda Yeti sponsored a “Right of way expedition contest” and the winners were supposed to be taken on a tour of Gir National Park. Gir, in the state of Gujarat, is the only place where you can see the pure Asiatic Lions in their natural habitat. The first three winners of the contest were lucky enough to join this exclusive tour of Gir national forest.

Siddis of Gujarat

Gir is popular for its Jungle safaris which start early morning and offer you many chances of sighting a Lion family relaxing in the grasslands of the forest. This forest was reserved for saving the lion population and now the number of these Lions has reached a satisfactory level obviously increasing your chances of sighting the king of the forest from a close distance. If you are a quick photographer then you can square the lions in the lens of your cameras in one of the best position. Apart from Lions you will be sighting the peacocks that are bold enough and might stand in a position as if they expect you to take their photograph. An entertainment at Gir can be experienced while joining the Siddis presenting their dance in traditional costumes. These are the people who have migrated long back from some of the African countries and they have made Gir forests as well as Gujarat their new home. Historical records say that these Siddis were given as slaves by the Potuguese to the Nawab of Junagadh who slowly settled around the jungles of Gir in Junagadh district. Deva-dungar is the silent village near Sirvan which is settled by the Siddi community. Settled here before three hundred years they have parted away from their original culture except a few things like the traditional dance called Dhamal which is accompanied with Goma music.

Come to Gir and get impressed by its wildlife as well as the tribal’s who are leaving in the dense forests of Gir which are surrounding the Gir National Park. Do not forget to experience the thrill of staying inside the jungle at United-21 Vanavaso resort in Gir.