Quick answer: Gujarat will reopen all its wildlife sanctuaries and national parks to tourists from 9 October 2026, as per news agency ANI. The forest team made the call ahead of Navratri and Diwali. The rains are over and roads are better, the CM’s office said. Entry will follow forest rules so that animals are not disturbed. The state has 4 national parks and 23 sanctuaries, such as Gir, home of the Asiatic lion. For Gir, Devalia, Ambardi and Velavadar, book only on the state’s own site, girlion.gujarat.gov.in.
Gujarat’s Forests Open Their Gates Again
Good news for nature lovers. Gujarat’s wildlife sanctuaries and national parks will reopen to tourists from Thursday, 9 October 2026.
As per ANI, the state’s forest team has decided to open all parks and sanctuaries from that date. The move comes just in time for Navratri and Diwali, when many families plan trips.
The Chief Minister’s Office said the monsoon season is over and road conditions have improved. So, visits will now be easier. It also said the reopening will create jobs for local people, such as guides, drivers and homestay owners.
But there’s one key rule. Tourists can enter only as per the forest team’s rules. In other words, the aim is to let people enjoy nature while the animals stay calm and safe.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| What | All wildlife sanctuaries and national parks reopen to tourists |
| From | 9 October 2026 |
| Decided by | Gujarat Forest Department |
| Reasons | End of monsoon, better roads, festive season |
| Rules | Entry as per Forest Department guidelines |
| Expected benefit | Jobs for local people, as per the CMO |
| Protected areas | 4 national parks and 23 wildlife sanctuaries |
| Gir booking | Official portal: girlion.gujarat.gov.in |
| Source | ANI report, 8 October 2026 |
Why Were the Parks Closed?
Every year, many of India’s wildlife parks close during the monsoon. There are a few simple reasons.
First, heavy rain makes forest roads muddy and unsafe. Second, rivers and streams can flood, cutting off routes. Third, the rainy season is an important time for many animals to breed and rest. So, a break from tourist traffic helps them.
For example, Gir’s core safari has a yearly break from 16 June to 15 October, as listed on its booking site and reported by Gujarat Samachar. Now, with the rains over, the parks are getting ready for guests again.
What About Gir? An Important Note
Gir is Gujarat’s most famous protected area and the only wild home of the Asiatic lion. So, many readers will want to know if the Gir jungle safari opens on 9 October too.
Here’s what we know. ANI says all parks will open from 9 October. But Gir’s safari season has usually begun on 16 October. In late September, Gujarat Samachar said the forest team had proposed an early start for the Gir safari. Still, it said a formal notice was needed.
So, our advice is simple. Before you go, check girlion.gujarat.gov.in for the latest open dates and free slots. Also, call the Sinh Sadan office at Sasan if you’re not sure.
Gujarat Joins Other States in Reopening
Gujarat isn’t alone. As per ANI, several parks in other states opened on 1 October 2026.
| Park | State |
|---|---|
| Ranthambore and Sariska | Rajasthan |
| Satpura | Madhya Pradesh |
| Bandipur and Nagarhole | Karnataka |
| Pench and Tadoba-Andhari | Maharashtra |
So, the October reopening marks the start of India’s main wildlife season, which usually runs through winter and into early summer.
Gujarat’s Protected Areas: 4 National Parks, 23 Sanctuaries
Gujarat has a wide range of wild places, from lion forests and grasslands to salt deserts, wetlands and coral reefs. According to Wikipedia’s list of protected areas, the state has 4 national parks and 23 wildlife sanctuaries.
The 4 National Parks
| National park | District | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Gir National Park | Junagadh | Asiatic lions |
| Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar | Bhavnagar | Blackbuck, wolves, harriers |
| Vansda National Park | Navsari | Dense forest, birds |
| Marine National Park, Gulf of Kutch | Jamnagar, Devbhumi Dwarka | Corals and sea life |
Popular Wildlife Sanctuaries
| Sanctuary | District | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Wild Ass Sanctuary | Kutch and nearby | Indian wild ass in the Little Rann |
| Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary | Ahmedabad, Surendranagar | Winter migratory birds |
| Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary | Mehsana | Flamingos and waterbirds |
| Jambughoda | Panchmahal | Forest stays and trails |
| Ratanmahal Sloth Bear | Dahod | Sloth bears |
| Jessore Sloth Bear | Banaskantha | Sloth bears |
| Shoolpaneshwar | Narmada | Forests near the Statue of Unity area |
| Girnar | Junagadh | Hills and forests |
| Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary | Jamnagar | Waterbirds |
| Purna | Dangs | Thick forest |
Of course, each site has its own entry rules, timings and fees. So, check with the local forest office before you go.
Gir Safari Booking: Timings and Fees
Gir’s permit site, girlion.gujarat.gov.in, takes bookings for several safaris. Here are the times and fees it lists. But rates and slots can change, so always check the site.
Safari Options
- Gir Jungle Safari (Sasan): The main safari into the forest.
- Devalia Park Gypsy Safari: A jeep safari in the Devalia interpretation zone.
- Devalia Park Bus Safari: A cheaper bus safari in Devalia.
- Ambardi Safari Park: A bus safari near Dhari, in Amreli district.
- Girnar Nature Safari: A safari near Junagadh.
- Velavadar National Park: Also listed for booking on the portal.
Listed Timings
| Safari | Listed timings (as per the portal) |
|---|---|
| Gir Jungle Safari (winter) | 6:45–9:45 am and 3–6 pm, plus an 8:30–11:30 am slot |
| Devalia Gypsy Safari | 7:00–10:55 am and 3–6 pm |
| Devalia Bus Safari | 7:30–11:00 am and 3–5 pm |
| Ambardi Safari Park | 8–11 am and 3–6 pm |
Listed Fees
| Safari | Indian (Mon–Fri) | Indian (weekends, festivals) |
|---|---|---|
| Gir Jungle, Devalia Gypsy, Girnar Nature Safari | ₹800 | ₹1,000 |
| Devalia Bus, Ambardi Safari Park | ₹150 | ₹190 |
Rates for foreign visitors are higher. As per the portal, they’re ₹5,600 to ₹7,000 for Gir-type safaris and ₹2,800 to ₹3,500 for bus safaris. Also, extra charges such as gypsy hire and guide fees may apply. So, read the details on the portal before you pay.
Note: As per Google’s listing, Ambardi Safari Park is closed on Tuesdays. Check before you plan.
Beware of Fake Booking Sites
The Gir site says it is “the only official booking website” for Gir permits. It also warns about fake sites that charge extra for “sure” permits. So, book only at girlion.gujarat.gov.in. Also, note that there is no tatkal or rush booking.
Sinh Sadan, Sasan Gir: Open in Google Maps · Devalia Safari Park: Open in Google Maps · Ambardi Safari Park: Open in Google Maps
Top Wildlife Spots to Visit This Season
With the parks reopening, here are some of the best places to visit in Gujarat this winter. Each one has a map link to help you plan.
1. Gir National Park and Sanctuary
Gir is the only place in the world where Asiatic lions live in the wild. Besides lions, you may see leopards, deer, nilgai and many birds. The base for safaris is Sasan Gir. Book early, since permits sell out fast in the festive season.
2. Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar
Velavadar, in Bhavnagar district, is a flat grassland famous for herds of blackbuck. It’s also a good place to see wolves, hyenas and birds of prey, such as harriers in winter. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Ahmedabad.
Find it: Open in Google Maps
3. Wild Ass Sanctuary, Little Rann of Kutch
This is one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in India. It’s home to the Indian wild ass, or “khur”, which lives only in this region. In winter, you may also see flamingos and other migratory birds.
Find it: Open in Google Maps
4. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
Nal Sarovar is a large lake about 60 km from Ahmedabad. In winter, it fills with migratory birds. As per its Google listing, it’s open from about 6 am to 5 pm. So, go early for the best birding.
Find it: Open in Google Maps
5. Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary
Thol, near Kadi in Mehsana district, is a smaller lake about 40 km from Ahmedabad. It’s great for flamingos, pelicans and ducks in winter. As a result, it’s a popular sunrise trip for Amdavadis.
Find it: Open in Google Maps
6. Marine National Park, Narara
At Narara, near Jamnagar, you can walk on the seabed at low tide and see starfish, crabs, sea cucumbers and even octopus. Visits depend on the tide. So, check tide times and hire a local guide.
Find it: Open in Google Maps
7. Vansda National Park
In south Gujarat, Vansda is a lush, dense forest. It’s good for birds, deer and peaceful forest drives. Visitors say the post-monsoon months are especially green.
Find it: Open in Google Maps
8. Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary
Near Vadodara, Jambughoda offers forest walks, camps and quiet stays. It’s a great weekend escape. For more, see our Jambughoda guide.
Find it: Open in Google Maps
| Place | Rough distance from Ahmedabad | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Thol Lake | About 40 km | Sunrise birding |
| Nal Sarovar | About 60 km | Migratory birds |
| Wild Ass Sanctuary (Dasada area) | About 100 to 130 km | Wild ass, desert birds |
| Velavadar | About 140 to 150 km | Blackbuck, wolves |
| Jambughoda | About 150 to 170 km | Forest stays |
| Gir (Sasan) | About 350 to 370 km | Asiatic lions |
| Narara (Jamnagar) | About 350 km | Marine life |
| Vansda | About 330 km | Dense forest |
Note: Distances are rough and depend on your route.
A Morning in Gir: What It Might Feel Like
This is an imagined scene, based on how many visitors describe a Gir safari.
It’s 6:30 am at Sasan. The air is cool and still. Your open jeep waits at the gate. The guide checks your permit and smiles. Then, you roll into the forest.
At first, all you hear are birds. A peacock calls. Deer look up from the grass. Then, the guide raises a hand. The jeep stops. You hold your breath.
There, by the side of the track, a lioness steps out of the bushes. Two cubs follow. They walk past, calm and slow, as if you aren’t there. No one speaks. A few minutes later, they’re gone. But you’ll remember that moment for the rest of your life.
Five Simple Things to Do Before You Go
- Pick your park and your dates.
- Check the open dates on the forest site or with the local office.
- Book your permit only from the official site.
- Book your stay early, since the festive rush is coming.
- Pack light, quiet, earth-toned clothes, a cap, water and binoculars.
Wildlife Trips With Kids
Kids love a safari. But a few tips help make it fun and safe. First, pick shorter trips, such as the Devalia or Ambardi bus safaris. Next, explain the rules before you go: stay seated, stay quiet and don’t throw food. Then, carry snacks and water. Finally, bring a small pair of binoculars, so they can spot birds and deer on their own.
Also, a bird lake like Thol makes a great first trip. It’s close to Ahmedabad, it’s easy and it’s full of birds in winter.
What the Reopening Means for Locals
The Chief Minister’s Office said the reopening will create jobs for local people. That’s important. Around parks like Gir, many families earn a living from tourism.
For example, safari drivers, guides, hotel staff, cooks, shop owners and cab drivers all rely on visitors. So, the end of the rainy break brings back their income. Also, the festive rush gives the local trade a good start to the season.
Forest Department Rules: How to Be a Good Visitor
The reopening comes with a clear message: wildlife comes first. So, here are the basic rules most parks follow. Always follow the specific rules of each park, too.
- Stay in your vehicle: Never get out during a safari unless the guide says it’s safe.
- Keep quiet: Loud noise stresses animals.
- Don’t feed animals: It harms their health and behaviour.
- No littering: Carry all plastic and waste back with you.
- Keep your distance: Never crowd or chase animals.
- No flash photography: Flashes can startle wildlife.
- Follow your guide: Guides know the rules and the risks.
- Stick to timings: Enter and exit within your permitted slot.
- Carry ID: You may need it to match your permit.
Tips for Planning a Festive-Season Wildlife Trip
Navratri and Diwali are busy times. So, a little planning goes a long way.
- First, book permits early. Gir permits can sell out within days.
- Next, book your stay. Hotels near Sasan Gir fill up fast during Diwali.
- Then, pick morning safaris. They usually offer better wildlife sightings.
- Also, avoid peak holiday dates if you can. Weekdays are calmer.
- Pack right. Carry earthy-coloured clothes, a cap, water and binoculars.
- Finally, check the weather. Late rain can still affect some forest roads.
Best Time for Wildlife in Gujarat
| Months | What to expect |
|---|---|
| October to November | Green forests after the rains, fewer crowds outside holidays |
| December to February | Cool weather, peak season for migratory birds |
| March to May | Hot, but animals gather at waterholes, which helps sightings |
| June to mid-October | Monsoon; many parks closed |
So, if you love birds, plan for winter. If you want lions, any time in the open season works, but early mornings are best.
Why This Matters for Amdavadis
For people in Ahmedabad, the reopening opens up great weekend trips. Thol and Nal Sarovar are less than two hours away. So, you can go for a sunrise and be home by lunch. Then, the Little Rann and Velavadar make good one- or two-day trips. And finally, Gir is perfect for a long Diwali break.
Also, winter is the best time for birds near the city. So, if you’ve never been birdwatching, this is the year to try it. Take a friend, a flask of tea and some patience. You’ll be surprised by what you see.
What We Still Need to Know
The ANI report gave the headline news. But a few details may vary by park.
- Exact first-day opening for each individual park
- Any new rules or limits on visitor numbers
- Updated fees for the 2026–27 season
- Gir’s exact first safari date this season
So, check the official portal and local forest offices before you travel. We’ll update this story if new details come out.
The News in Plain Words
Let’s keep it simple. Gujarat’s parks were shut for the rains. Now, the rains are over. So, from 9 October, people can visit again. You must follow the forest rules. And if you want to go to Gir, book only on the official website.
Quick Recap
- What: All Gujarat wildlife sanctuaries and national parks reopen.
- When: From 9 October 2026.
- Why: Monsoon over, roads better, festive season ahead.
- Rules: Entry as per Forest Department guidelines.
- Gir booking: Only on girlion.gujarat.gov.in.
- Total: 4 national parks and 23 sanctuaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Gujarat’s wildlife sanctuaries and national parks reopen?
According to an ANI report, all wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Gujarat reopen to tourists from 9 October 2026.
Why were Gujarat’s national parks closed?
They were closed during the monsoon, when heavy rain makes forest roads unsafe and many animals breed and rest.
Why are the parks reopening on 9 October?
The CM’s office said the rains have ended and roads are better. Also, the reopening comes just before Navratri and Diwali.
Is the Gir jungle safari open from 9 October?
ANI says all parks open from 9 October. But the Gir safari season has usually begun on 16 October. So, check girlion.gujarat.gov.in for the latest dates and permits.
How do I book a Gir safari?
Book only on girlion.gujarat.gov.in. The site warns against fake sites, and it says there is no tatkal booking.
What is the Gir safari fee?
As per the official portal, the Gir jungle safari costs ₹800 for Indians on weekdays and ₹1,000 on weekends and festivals. Devalia and Ambardi bus safaris cost ₹150 on weekdays and ₹190 on weekends. Extra charges may apply.
How many national parks and sanctuaries are there in Gujarat?
Gujarat has 4 national parks and 23 wildlife sanctuaries, according to Wikipedia’s list of protected areas.
Which wildlife places near Ahmedabad are best in winter?
Thol Lake and Nal Sarovar are great for birds, the Wild Ass Sanctuary in the Little Rann is good for wild ass and desert birds, and Velavadar is known for blackbuck.
What rules should tourists follow in Gujarat’s parks?
Stay in your vehicle, keep quiet, don’t feed animals, don’t litter, keep your distance and follow your guide and the Forest Department’s guidelines.
Which other parks in India reopened in October 2026?
As per ANI, tiger reserves such as Ranthambore, Sariska, Satpura, Bandipur, Nagarhole, Pench and Tadoba opened on 1 October 2026.
The Bottom Line
Gujarat’s forests, grasslands, wetlands and reefs are open again from 9 October. It’s the perfect time to see lions in Gir, blackbuck in Velavadar, wild ass in the Little Rann and flocks of birds at Nal Sarovar and Thol.
So, plan early, book only from official sources and follow the forest rules. That way, you’ll enjoy the wild, and the wild will stay safe for years to come.
Run a safari, homestay, resort or tour business near Gujarat’s parks? Get featured on Amdavad Gully and reach thousands of nature lovers planning their winter trips. Write to us at amdavadgully@gmail.com.
References
- ANI – Gujarat to open all sanctuaries, national parks for tourists from Oct 9 (8 October 2026)
- Gujarat Forest Department – Official Gir permit booking portal
- Gujarat Samachar – Gir jungle safari reopening report (29 September 2026)
- Wikipedia – List of protected areas of Gujarat
- Wikipedia – Gir National Park
- Unsplash License
This story is based on an ANI report from 8 October 2026, the Gir booking site and other sources. Dates, times, fees and rules may differ by park, and they can change. So, please check with the forest team before you go. All photos are from Unsplash and free to use under the Unsplash License.