Officially called the Ambardi Wildlife Interpretation Zone, it was established in 2017 to reduce tourist pressure on Gir while offering another unique destination for wildlife lovers. Ambardi Safari Park is one of Gujarat’s emerging wildlife destinations, designed to complement the famed Gir National Park. Situated just 7 km from Dhari taluka in Amreli district, the park provides visitors with a chance to experience Gir’s biodiversity in a controlled and accessible environment.
🌄 Location and Overview
- Situated on: Banks of the Shetrunji River, near Ambardi village.
- Area: 365 hectares of reserved forest.
- Landscape: Undulating terrain, savannah-like grasslands, proximity to Khodiyar temple and reservoir.
- Purpose: Extension of Gir’s eastern forest ecosystem, balancing conservation with tourism.
🐅 Wildlife Diversity
Ambardi Safari Park mirrors Gir’s rich biodiversity:
- Mammals: Asiatic lions, leopards, chinkara, blue bull (nilgai), spotted deer, porcupine, jackals, wild boars.
- Birds: Over 300 species including peafowl, eagles, storks, and migratory birds.
- Reptiles: 37 species including monitor lizards and snakes.
- Flora: More than 606 plant species such as Kher, Sadad, Timru, Deshi Babul, Kadayo, Semalo, Bo, Gorad, Khakhro, Lapadu, Ratad, Jinjavo.
This diversity creates an ideal habitat for large carnivores and herbivores, offering visitors a glimpse of Gir’s ecosystem in a smaller setting.
🛕 Safari Experience
Safari Modes
- Bus Safari: Safe and convenient for families and groups.
- Jeep Safari: Offers closer encounters and is ideal for photographers.
Duration
- Safaris typically last 45–60 minutes.
- Cover major zones with high chances of lion sightings.
Timings
- Morning and evening slots available.
- Closed on Wednesdays.
❄️ Best Time to Visit
- Winter (November–March): Pleasant weather, ideal for safaris.
- Summer (April–June): Hot but good for lion sightings near waterholes.
- Monsoon (July–October): Park remains closed due to rains.
🚴 Activities for Visitors
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot lions, leopards, and antelopes.
- Birdwatching: Observe migratory and resident species.
- Photography: Capture close encounters with wildlife.
- Cultural Visits: Explore nearby Khodiyar temple and Dhari town.
🏨 Accommodation Options
- Luxury Resorts: Premium stays near Gir and Amreli.
- Forest Lodges: Eco-friendly accommodations close to Ambardi.
- Budget Hotels: Affordable stays in Dhari and Junagadh.
- Homestays: Experience local hospitality in villages.
🍲 Cuisine Around Ambardi
Visitors can enjoy authentic Gujarati food:
- Local Dishes: Dhokla, thepla, khichdi, undhiyu.
- Street Food: Farsan, jalebi, fafda.
- Resort Dining: Mix of Gujarati, North Indian, and continental cuisines.
🛍️ Shopping Nearby
- Handicrafts: Local embroidery, wooden carvings.
- Souvenirs: Lion-themed memorabilia.
- Markets: Amreli and Junagadh bazaars for textiles and jewelry.
🚗 Connectivity
- Nearest Airport: Rajkot (160 km), Diu (100 km).
- Railway Stations: Amreli, Junagadh, Veraval.
- Roadways: Well-connected highways from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Somnath.
📅 Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Amreli, transfer to Ambardi, evening safari.
Day 2: Morning jeep safari, visit Khodiyar temple, explore Dhari town.
Day 3: Cultural tour of Junagadh and Somnath, departure.
📈 Importance of Ambardi Safari Park
- Conservation: Reduces tourist pressure on Gir National Park.
- Education: Helps visitors understand Gir’s biodiversity.
- Tourism Growth: Attracts families, students, and international travelers.
- Economic Impact: Supports local businesses and hospitality.
✨ Conclusion
Ambardi Safari Park is more than just a mini Gir—it is a gateway to experiencing Gujarat’s wildlife heritage in a safe, convenient, and educational way. From thrilling lion sightings to cultural excursions nearby, Ambardi offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a family on a short trip, a student learning about conservation, or a traveler seeking adventure, Ambardi Safari Park promises memories filled with excitement, knowledge, and natural beauty.
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