Gondal is an interesting place to visit near Gir

Naulakha Palace

 Many of the tourists visit Gir National Park while enjoying their vacation in its surrounding areas. This wildlife sanctuary is well-known across the world as the only natural habitat where Asiatic Lions reside. Accommodation in any of the Gir National Park resorts located close to this wildlife sanctuary gives them great convenience in exploring this reserve as well as other interesting places nearby. One of them is Gondal, which was among the elite princely states under the Bombay Presidency during colonial era.

During their visit of Gondal, tourists can explore the majestic palaces of this city, which have stood the test of time. One of them is the Naulakha Palace, which dates back to the seventeenth century. Its exquisite balconies, stone carvings, spiral staircase, and delicately carved arches continue to amaze visitors even today. Another architectural beauty of Gondal is the Huzoor Palace, in which, the royalty continues to reside even today.

Royal Garages

A good collection of vintage and classic vehicles can be found in the Royal Garages of this city. Bird lovers would find considerable varieties of birds near the large water bodies in Gondal. Grasslands belonging to the royal family are also the right spots to watch some attractive birds in action.

Asiatic Lions have found their ideal home in Gir

Asiatic Lions- Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary

In the early 1900s, the population of Asiatic Lions in the princely state of Junagadh had reduced to only 15 due to hunting. This became a great concern for the ruler of Junagadh, who began conservation efforts for the protection of these endangered species. After the independence of India, Junagadh became a part of Gujarat state.

Population of these lions grew significantly with the establishment of Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary by the government in 1965. Besides lions, many of the animal species can be found in the wildlife reserve, such as, Indian Leopard, Sloth Bear, Striped Hyena, Golden Jackal, and Desert Cat. Every year, leisure tourists and wildlife enthusiasts book their accommodation in Gir National Park resorts to explore the abundant flora and fauna of this region. They also get the opportunity to tour some of the popular places of interest around Gir during their stay in these resorts.

Although the national park and sanctuary of Gir does not have a designated area for visitors, an Interpretation Zone has been made available for tourists within the wildlife reserve.

It has helped in reducing the harmful effects of tourism on Gir's wildlife and in promoting nature education among visitors.