Description
Located at a distance of 60 km from the town of Junagarh, India, Gir National Park is one of the few places in the world besides Africa, where you can experience the majestic presence of the Asiatic Lion. It was established as an initiative to preserve the almost extinct species of this rare carnivore and has been continuing to do so, efficiently. The exotic flora of this national park provides habitat to nearly 200 species of birds, including the endangered Long-billed Vulture. Kamleshwar reservoir, which is the largest one in the forest, is home to about 40 species of reptiles and amphibians, such as the King Cobra. These forests are also known to house the world’s only four-horned antelope- the Chowsingha. Get an insight into the lives of the Nawabs of the area, as you visit the Gir Museum in the premises of the national park. Trophy hunting almost erased the existence the Asiatic Lion from the globe, and with sheer efforts, the numbers have shown a remarkable increase. If you are a wildlife adventurist, then a visit to the Gir National Park is going to captivate you for a lifetime.
One of the most important pilgrimages or tirthas in India for Hindus, Somnath is a city within the Veraval municipality of the Saurashtra region of western Gujarat. Somnath is famous for the Lord Shiva temple, which is considered to be the first of the Twelve Jyotirlingas across the country, making it an important religious centre revered by many. The name Somnath is derived from another description of Lord Shiva which translates to 'Lord of the Soma'. Somnath, however, isn't just known for the temple but also for the beautiful beaches within the vicinity too. Somnath is a small easy going town with mostly pilgrims coming here year round and in numbers for certain festivals such as Mahashivratri. You can also visit other temples in the area such as the Rudreshwara temple and Bhalka Tirth. Other attractions in Somnath include Prabhas Pata Museum and the Somnath Railway Station, which is set apart in its unique architecture. This is a quaint little seaside town where you can come to rejuvenate yourself spiritually and also take in the view of the serene seaside.