The Pride Of Gir Sasan-Gujrat.
In January 2015 I had visited Gir Sasan Asiatic Lion Wild Life Sanctuary .It was planned in the month of Dec 2014 and accordingly safari bookings and accommodation at a well maintained resort were arranged.On 25th Jan We boarded the train at Pune to Junagad at 7.30 pm..in 2A/C .The travel was pleasant and comfortable.Next day at 15.30 pm we reached Junagad Rly Station and our pick up vehicle Innova picked us up and we travelled to Gir Sasan around 5.15 pm in the evening .Enroute ..Dharmesh our guide who was driving ..showed us many bird sightings and took us to a close by Lake .where ..to our amazement and surprise ,we spotted Crocodiles just basking in the sun lazily on the shore of the vast lake.
Then after spending some time ..we headed for our resort and had a nice rest amidst picturesque green environment.After sumptuous delicious dinner,we all had a nice night trail walk around the resort..which is situated very close to the Lion habitat.Locals say that they have very often spotted Leopard and lions near the resort at night.We were all excited hearing so many other interesting stories and experiences of the locals.
Next morning at 5.00..We all got up and were ready for our first safari.Dharmesh ..our trusted Safari Gypsy Guide and Manoj our opeb gypsy jeep driver took us to the entry gate.and after completeing all the forest formalities..alas we were driven inside the Lion forest ...with all the excitements and anxieties writ large in our face....!We took our first safari on Route No.2 ..felt the January chilly wind embracing our face ,body and the soul..enchanted by the virgin beaty of the flora and fauna of the forest in it's pristine beauty..where most of the sightings were happening..after initial travelling around the thick forest..slowly but steadily the sun rose up in the sky....continuing our ride thru the forest..and suddenly around a bend , we came to a small water - hole and to our utter astonishment we all were taken aback to witness a pride of 5 lions..one full grown Male Pride Lion..one Lioness and 3 cubs ,,drinking water in the small cool stream and cubs playing around..it was indeed a sight to behold.
The story will continue,,
