On The Wild Side: 5 Best Wildlife Lodges To Book In Gujarat

Wildlife lovers tend to find they have reached their heaven when they arrive in the paradise that is Gujarat — a state with a wide variety of landscapes and a thriving culture. Gujarat's diverse landscape offers refuge to rare plants and animals, such as the majestic Asiatic lions of Gir and the bird sanctuaries of Nalsarovar. The best way to enjoy this wildlife is to stay at eco-friendly lodges that offer both comfort and real wilderness experiences. The top five wildlife lodges in Gujarat are listed here to make your trip into the outdoors even more enjoyable.

Lion Safari Camp, Gir National Park

The Lion Safari Camp is ideally situated to explore Gir National Park, home to the endangered Asiatic lions, and is tucked away on the banks of the Hiran River. This opulent tented camp offers 21 tastefully furnished tents with air conditioning and private bathrooms, guaranteeing comfort in the middle of nature. The lodge encourages community-based initiatives involving the nearby Maldhari tribes and focuses on ecotourism.

Naturalists who specialise in Gir's varied fauna, which includes crocodiles, leopards, and more than 300 bird species, can lead guests on guided safaris. In order to introduce guests to Maldhari customs and craftsmanship, the camp also arranges village tours. After a day of exploring, the tranquil riverbank location sets the tone for relaxation for the weary traveller.

Essential Information

Address: Near Hirneshwar Temple, Check Dam, Chitrod, Gujarat 362133

Tariff: INR 8,000 – INR 18,000 per night (inclusive of meals and safaris)

Best Time to Visit: October to June (park closed during monsoons)

Blackbuck Lodge, Velavadar National Park

Blackbuck Lodge, located on the outskirts of Velavadar National Park, provides an unmatched view of the grasslands. Each of the large cottages on this boutique property has a private veranda and a view of flocks of birds or grazing blackbucks. The architecture creates a simple yet opulent atmosphere by blending in perfectly with the surrounding savanna.

The lodge offers jeep safaris into Velavadar National Park, where guests can see wolves, striped hyenas, and graceful blackbuck antelopes. During the migratory season, harriers, pelicans, and flamingos will be spotted, delighting birdwatchers.

Essential Information

Address: Velavadar National Park Bhavnagar,Bhal Saurashtra, Gujarat 364313

Tariff: INR 8,000 – INR 15,000 per night (inclusive of meals)

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Rann Riders by Kaafila

For visitors interested in the distinctive salt flats and fauna of the Little Rann of Kutch, Rann Riders provides a comfortable and rustic lodging option. The eco-friendly resort offers ethnic-style cottages that combine contemporary conveniences with traditional design elements, drawing inspiration from local architecture.

The Little Rann of Kutch, which is home to many Indian wild ass, or khur, animals, is a great place to start a jeep safari from this lodge. Due to the presence of flamingos, pelicans, and cranes in its wetlands, the area is also a popular destination for birdwatchers. Rann Riders also arrange village visits, allowing visitors to engage with locals and observe traditional crafts like beadwork and weaving.

Essential Information

Address: near Rann Riders Shooting Range, Dasada, Gujarat 382750

Tariff: INR 9,000 – INR 16,000 per night (inclusive of meals)

Best Time to Visit: November to February

Camps of Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary

The camps close to Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary offer ardent birdwatchers an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of India's top birding locations. Although the lodgings are not as opulent as those at luxury lodges, they are close to the islands and marshes of the sanctuary.

More than 250 bird species can be found in Nalsarovar, including migratory ducks that come from Siberia in the winter, pelicans, herons, and flamingos. The wetlands are a photographer's and nature lover's dream come true because guided boat trips into them provide up-close views of the bird population.

Essential Information

Address: Nalsarovar, 65 km from Ahmedabad

Tariff: INR 2,500 – INR 5,000 per night

Best Time to Visit: November to February

Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort, Hodka (Great Rann of Kutch)

The eco-friendly and culturally immersive Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort is close to the magnificent Great Rann of Kutch. This resort, which the locals manage, offers modern conveniences in traditional Bhunga huts and tents that are decorated with colourful Kutch artistry.

Particularly during the Rann Utsav, which highlights the area's distinctive heritage, the resort is a great starting point for exploring the salt desert. Visitors can enjoy cultural activities like folk music, dance performances, and workshops on regional crafts in addition to seeing migratory birds like flamingos and cranes at neighboring wetlands.

Essential Information

Address: Rann utsav - Dhordo Road, Opp Mahefeel E Rann Resort, Village, Hodka, Gujarat 370510

Tariff: INR 4,000 – INR 8,000 per night (inclusive of meals)

Best Time to Visit: November to February, especially during the Rann Utsav