In an effort to boost wildlife tourism in Gujarat and reduce the pressure on the popular Sasan Gir Sanctuary, the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary and the Phase-1 launch of the Barda Jungle Safari are set to be inaugurated on October 29, Dhanteras, at the Kapurdi Check Post in Devbhumi Dwarka.
This event will be led by Forest and Environment Minister Mulubhai Bera, with Jamnagar MP Poonam Madam and other distinguished guests joining the ceremony, as announced by Gujarat’s Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), N. Srivastava.
This sanctuary expansion is part of Gujarat’s broader initiative to preserve its unique natural heritage, including the conservation of the Asiatic lion. As Gujarat’s pride, these lions have found a secure habitat within Barda’s diverse ecosystem, providing a second home for their protection.
The state currently has approximately 674 Asiatic lions, and the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Devbhumi Dwarka district will further ensure their safety and growth.
Spread across approximately 192 square kilometers of the Barda region, Phase-1 of the Barda Jungle Safari promises a scenic experience. Featuring both high and low hills, the area includes some of the most captivating parts of the Bhanwad-Ranavav region and is officially designated as a wildlife sanctuary. Visitors will be treated to a breathtaking journey that winds along the Kilganga River, providing unparalleled views of the sanctuary’s lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
To enjoy this natural splendor, visitors will need to secure permits, with advanced booking options already in place. Soon, an online booking system will also be available, enhancing convenience for travelers planning their visits.
The Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wealth of biodiversity, featuring 368 plant species with shrubs being the most predominant, comprising 54% of the vegetation. The flora includes 59 tree varieties, 26 vine types, 83 herbaceous plants, and a wide range of shrubs, with the Rayan plant being among the sanctuary’s most valued species.
This sanctuary is also a thriving habitat for a diverse range of animals, including 22 mammal species. Visitors may encounter Asiatic lions, leopards, jungle cats, hyenas, mongooses, jackals, foxes, and hares, along with many other species. Bird enthusiasts can look forward to spotting some of the 269 bird species, such as peacocks, partridges, Indian paradise flycatchers, painted storks, bulbuls, drongos, Indian rollers, and white-throated kingfishers.
The Barda Jungle Safari is accessible during the winter season from October 16 to February and in the summer from March 1 to June 15. The sanctuary remains closed annually from June 16 to October 15 for the monsoon season, allowing the natural habitat to thrive undisturbed.
Nearby attractions add to the appeal of the sanctuary for visitors. These include the historic Navlakha Temple, Modpar Fort, Jambuvan Caves, as well as Sudama, Kirti, and the renowned Nageshwar and Dwarkadhish Temples, allowing travelers to combine their safari experience with cultural and historical exploration.
This new venture at Barda aims to attract tourists from across the country and beyond, providing a unique glimpse into Gujarat’s ecological diversity and reinforcing the state’s role in wildlife conservation.
