Route overview
The route follows the Junagadh highway south and then turns towards Mendarda and Sasan. The last stretch runs through farmland and forest edges, and it is worth slowing down to enjoy it.
Safari permits for Gir National Park are booked separately through the official Gujarat Forest Department system, and safaris run at fixed early-morning and afternoon slots. Most visitors arrive the previous evening, stay in Sasan, and take the morning safari. A round trip or two-day booking lets the car take you to the safari point, Devalia, and on to Somnath or Diu.
Distance & travel time
- Approx. distance
- 155–165 km (door to door varies with your pickup and drop points)
- Approx. drive time
- 3.5–4 hours, plus time for breaks and sightseeing
- Usual route
- via Gondal, Jetpur, Junagadh and Mendarda
- Trip types
- One way, round trip, or multi-day with the same car and driver
- Tolls, parking, permits
- Shown clearly in your quote
Distances and timings are approximate and for planning only. Traffic, roadworks, weather and stops can change them.
Suggested stops on the way
- Rajkot StartPickup from home or hotel.
- Gondal / Virpur ≈ 40–55 kmBreakfast stop and the Jalaram temple.
- Junagadh ≈ 100 kmOptional stop for the Girnar ropeway.
- Mendarda ≈ 130 kmTurn-off towards Sasan through farmland.
- Sasan Gir ≈ 155–165 kmDrop at your resort or the safari booking point.
Things to see in Sasan Gir
- Gir National Park safariJeep safaris on fixed routes, with permits booked in advance.
- Devalia Safari Park (Gir Interpretation Zone)A fenced area near Sasan where sightings are easier; good with children.
- Kamleshwar DamA reservoir inside the forest, home to marsh crocodiles.
- Kankai Mata TempleA forest temple inside the sanctuary area.
- TulsishyamTemple and hot springs on the forest road towards Una.
For more ideas, timings and nearby places, see our Sasan Gir travel guide.
Travel tips for this route
- The main national park safaris are usually closed during the monsoon, roughly mid-June to mid-October. Check official dates before you plan.
- Book safari permits as early as you can; slots sell out on weekends and holidays.
- Safari jeeps are arranged by the forest department, not by us. Our taxi takes you to the safari point and waits or picks you up after.
