If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, witness majestic wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful getaway from the bustle of city life, Ambardi Safari Park is the perfect destination. Tucked away in Gujarat’s Amreli district, near Dhari and the famous Gir Forest, Ambardi Safari Park is an emerging eco-tourism hotspot that offers a remarkable safari experience, especially for those who prefer tranquility over crowds.
In this article, we’ll take you through what makes Ambardi Safari Park the best safari experience for nature lovers—covering its wildlife, landscapes, eco-friendly environment, and travel tips to make the most of your visit.
What Is Ambardi Safari Park?
Ambardi Safari Park is a lesser-known but beautifully managed wildlife reserve in Gujarat, developed as an extension of the Gir ecosystem. Spread across acres of semi-arid forest, it is home to a variety of wild animals, birds, and native flora. The park is a government initiative aimed at both wildlife conservation and promoting sustainable tourism.
Unlike more commercialized wildlife parks, Ambardi Safari Park offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy unspoiled nature, rich biodiversity, and fewer crowds.
A Safari Adventure Like No Other
The core attraction of Ambardi Safari Park is its guided safari ride. Conducted in open vehicles, the safari gives you the opportunity to explore rugged terrain, dry deciduous forests, and grassy meadows—all teeming with life.
- Duration & Schedule: Each safari lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, with morning and evening time slots available. Morning safaris often provide better chances of spotting wildlife when the animals are most active.
- Wildlife Encounters: Ambardi is home to several species, including:
- Asiatic lions – the stars of the park, seen in secure zones
- Spotted deer, sambar, blue bulls (nilgai), and blackbucks
- Leopards and hyenas (rare but present in the area)
- Birdlife such as peacocks, eagles, owls, and parakeets
- Asiatic lions – the stars of the park, seen in secure zones
- Photography: The open-top jeeps are ideal for photography. Whether it’s a lion resting under a tree or a peacock dancing at sunrise, every moment is a photo opportunity.
For wildlife lovers and photographers, Ambardi Safari Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders.
Rich Birdlife for Ornithologists
The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. Thanks to its seasonal water bodies and forested environment, Ambardi hosts both resident and migratory birds. You can spot:
- Indian peafowl
- Painted storks
- Indian rollers
- Grey hornbills
- Raptors like shikras and crested serpent eagles
Don’t forget your binoculars if you’re passionate about birdwatching—the early morning hours are particularly rewarding.
Scenic Beauty and Peaceful Surroundings
One of the most beautiful aspects of Ambardi Safari Park is its natural scenery. Unlike densely packed forests, Ambardi features:
- Rocky hillocks and plateaus with panoramic views
- Sparse, open woodland perfect for spotting wildlife
- Waterholes where animals gather, especially in the summer
- Sunset points offering mesmerizing evening skies
The park’s layout is designed to replicate natural wildlife habitats, offering a raw, unfiltered glimpse of nature. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with chirping birds and rustling leaves, creates a truly calming escape.
Conservation and Education
Ambardi Safari Park is more than just a tourist attraction—it’s part of a greater initiative to support the conservation of the Asiatic lion and local biodiversity. The park plays an important role in relieving tourism pressure from Gir National Park while educating the public about the need to protect endangered species.
Nature guides accompanying the safaris share insights into the ecosystem, wildlife behavior, and conservation efforts. For eco-conscious travelers, this adds a meaningful layer to the safari experience.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Ambardi Safari Park is from October to March, when the climate is cool and the landscape lush. Wildlife sightings are frequent during these months, and the weather is perfect for exploring.
Avoid the monsoon season (July to September) when the park may close due to rain and muddy trails.
How to Reach Ambardi Safari Park
Ambardi Safari Park is well-connected and accessible by road:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Rajkot (approx. 110 km away).
- By Train: The closest railway stations are Junagadh and Veraval.
- By Road: Located near Dhari town, Ambardi is easily accessible by state buses and taxis from major cities like Rajkot and Ahmedabad.
Travel Tips for Visitors
To make your trip to Ambardi more enjoyable and eco-friendly:
- Book your safari online in advance through the Gujarat Forest Department portal.
- Wear earthy-toned clothes to blend with the environment and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Bring essentials like water, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
- Use binoculars and a zoom camera for the best wildlife and bird photography.
- Respect the rules: Stay silent during safaris, do not feed animals, and do not litter.
Nearby Attractions
If you have time, explore other nearby gems:
- Gir National Park – home to the main population of Asiatic lions.
- Girnar Hill – a spiritual and scenic trekking destination.
- Somnath Temple – one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, located by the Arabian Sea.
Combining Ambardi Safari Park with these sites can turn your trip into a well-rounded Gujarat travel experience.
Final Thoughts
For those seeking a deep connection with nature and a more relaxed wildlife experience, Ambardi Safari Park stands out as a top destination. It offers a unique opportunity to witness majestic animals, appreciate diverse birdlife, and enjoy the raw beauty of Gujarat’s forest landscape.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, a photographer, or a wildlife enthusiast, Ambardi Safari Park promises an unforgettable safari adventure—one that’s not just about thrills, but about understanding and respecting the delicate balance of nature.
So pack your gear, prepare your camera, and get ready to discover the wild charm of Ambardi Safari Park!
