Tucked away on the banks of the Shetrunji River, just 7 km from Dhari town in Gujarat’s Amreli district, Ambardi Safari Park—officially known as the Ambardi Wildlife Interpretation Zone—is a rising star in India’s wildlife tourism map. Established in 2017 as an extension of the eastern Gir forest, this 365-hectare reserve offers a curated safari experience that balances conservation, education, and adventure.
Whether you’re a first-time wildlife explorer or a seasoned nature lover, Ambardi Safari Park promises close encounters with the Asiatic lion, panoramic savannah-like landscapes, and a deep dive into the biodiversity of the Gir ecosystem.
📍 Location and Accessibility
- Address: Near Khodiyar Dam, Dhari, Amreli District, Gujarat – 365640
- Distance from Major Cities:
- Rajkot: ~130 km
- Junagadh: ~90 km
- Ahmedabad: ~300 km
- How to Reach:
- By Road: Well-connected via state highways; taxis and buses available from Amreli and Dhari.
- By Rail: Nearest stations are Dhari and Amreli.
- By Air: Rajkot Airport is the closest domestic airport.
🌿 The Landscape and Ecosystem
Ambardi’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills, dry deciduous forests, and open grasslands that resemble the African savannah. The park’s proximity to the Shetrunji River and Khodiyar Dam enhances its ecological richness, supporting a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Flora:
The park boasts over 600 species of plants, including:
- Kher
- Sadad
- Timru
- Deshi Babul
- Kadayo
- Semalo
- Bo
- Gorad
- Khakhro
- Lapadu
These native species create a thriving habitat for herbivores and carnivores alike.
🦁 Wildlife at Ambardi Safari Park
Ambardi is part of the Gir Protected Area and shares its biodiversity. The park is enclosed with a chain-link fence, ensuring safety while allowing animals to roam freely in a near-natural environment.
Key Species:
- Asiatic Lion: The park’s star attraction, often spotted during morning and evening safaris.
- Leopard: Elusive and majestic, occasionally seen in the denser parts of the park.
- Chinkara (Indian Gazelle): Graceful and swift, often seen in open grasslands.
- Nilgai (Blue Bull): India’s largest antelope, commonly sighted in herds.
- Spotted Deer (Chital): Frequently seen grazing near water bodies.
- Porcupine: Nocturnal and shy, but occasionally visible during early morning safaris.
- Wild Boar: Often seen foraging in the undergrowth.
- Birdlife: Over 300 species including peacocks, eagles, vultures, and parakeets.
🚌 Safari Experience
Ambardi offers a well-organized safari experience that is both educational and exhilarating.
Safari Details:
- Mode: Open buses and jeeps (subject to availability)
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
- Timings:
- Morning: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Evening: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Closed: Every Wednesday
Ticket Prices:
- Indian Nationals: ₹250–₹500 per person (approximate)
- Foreign Nationals: ₹800–₹1,000 per person (approximate)
- Children (5–12 years): Discounted rates
- Booking: Tickets can be booked online via the official Gir Safari portal or at the park entrance.
🧭 Visitor Facilities
- Interpretation Center: Offers insights into the Gir ecosystem, conservation efforts, and species behavior.
- Parking Area: Ample space for private vehicles and tourist buses.
- Restrooms and Waiting Area: Clean and accessible.
- Refreshments: Local vendors and small stalls near the entrance.
- Guides: Trained naturalists accompany each safari, enhancing the experience with stories and facts.
🛕 Nearby Attractions
- Khodiyar Temple: A revered shrine near the park, dedicated to Goddess Khodiyar.
- Gir National Park: Located further west, for those seeking a deeper forest safari.
- Sasan Gir: The main hub for Gir safaris and home to the Gir Interpretation Zone (Devalia).
- Somnath Temple: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, located ~90 km away.
- Junagadh: A historic city with forts, stepwells, and museums.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Ideal weather with cool mornings and active wildlife.
- Avoid: Monsoon season (June to September) due to slippery terrain and limited visibility.
🧘 Who Should Visit?
- Families: Safe, short-duration safaris ideal for children and elders.
- Wildlife Photographers: Excellent visibility and high chances of lion sightings.
- Pilgrims: Combine with visits to Khodiyar Temple and Somnath.
- Eco-tourists: Learn about conservation and biodiversity in a controlled setting.
🧳 Travel Tips
- Book Early: Especially during weekends and holidays.
- Carry Essentials: Water, sunscreen, hats, and binoculars.
- Dress Comfortably: Earth-toned clothing and closed shoes recommended.
- Follow Rules: No littering, loud noises, or feeding animals.
- Photography: Allowed, but flash photography is prohibited.
🌍 Conservation and Education
Ambardi Safari Park plays a vital role in:
- Reducing pressure on Gir National Park by offering an alternative safari experience.
- Educating visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation.
- Monitoring species in a semi-wild habitat for research and breeding programs.
Ambardi Safari Park is more than just a wildlife destination—it’s a bridge between conservation and tourism, offering a rare chance to witness the majestic Asiatic lion in a setting that’s both accessible and ecologically responsible. Whether you’re on a spiritual journey through Gujarat or a nature lover seeking new horizons, Ambardi promises an unforgettable encounter with the wild.
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