Ambardi Safari Park: Timings, Entry Fees, and Travel Tips for Visitors

If you are planning a wildlife trip to Gujarat, Ambardi Safari Park should be on your list for an enriching and memorable experience. Located near Dhari in Amreli district, Ambardi Safari Park is an extension of Gir National Park and offers visitors a chance to see the majestic Asiatic lions and other wildlife in a natural setting. Whether you are a nature lover, wildlife photographer, or family traveller, this detailed guide on Ambardi Safari Park’s timings, entry fees, and essential travel tips will help you plan your visit seamlessly.

About Ambardi Safari Park

Ambardi Safari Park, also known as Ambardi Interpretation Zone, was developed to manage the increasing tourist footfall at Sasan Gir and to educate visitors about the Gir ecosystem. Spread across 400 hectares, it provides a semi-natural environment where Asiatic lions roam freely, giving travellers an authentic safari experience. Managed by the Gujarat Forest Department, the park has become a significant destination for wildlife tourism and conservation education in the state.

Ambardi Safari Park Timings

Ambardi Safari Park operates daily except Wednesdays. It remains closed on Wednesdays for maintenance and conservation work. The park is also closed during the monsoon season from mid-June to mid-October due to safety reasons and to allow the ecosystem to rejuvenate.

The safari timings are:

• Morning Safari: 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM
  
• Evening Safari: 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
  

It is recommended to visit during early mornings or late afternoons as animals are most active during these hours, increasing your chances of good sightings, especially of lions and other carnivores.

Ambardi Safari Park Entry Fees

The entry fee for Ambardi Safari Park is quite affordable compared to other wildlife parks in India, making it ideal for all kinds of travellers, from families to budget tourists.

Entry Fees (Approximate):

• Indian Tourists: ₹250 – ₹300 per person
  
• Foreign Tourists: ₹1,200 – ₹1,500 per person
  

The entry fee usually includes:

• Safari vehicle charges
  
• Forest guide charges
  
• Basic camera charges (professional cameras may attract additional fees)
  

However, these rates are indicative and subject to change. It is advisable to check the Gujarat Forest Department’s official website or with local tourism offices before planning your visit to get the latest updates on fees and timings.

How to Book Safari at Ambardi Safari Park

Ambardi Safari Park safaris can be booked in two ways:

1. Online Booking: Through the Gujarat Forest Department’s official portal, where you can select your preferred slot, date, and make payments in advance.
   
2. On-the-Spot Booking: At the park’s entry gate, subject to availability. During weekends, holidays, and peak seasons (December to March), online booking is recommended to avoid last-minute unavailability.
   

Carry a valid government-issued ID proof while visiting the park as it is required for verification before entry.

Essential Travel Tips for Visitors

Here are some practical tips to make your visit to Ambardi Safari Park safe, comfortable, and memorable:

1. Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Ambardi Safari Park is from December to March when the weather is pleasant, and animals are active. Summers can be extremely hot in Gujarat, while the park remains closed during the monsoon.

2. Follow Safari Rules

• Always listen to your guide and driver.
  
• Do not get down from the safari vehicle under any circumstances.
  
• Maintain silence during the safari to avoid disturbing wildlife.
  
• Avoid wearing bright coloured clothes; opt for earthy tones to blend with the environment.
  

3. What to Carry

• Valid ID proof for entry verification
  
• Sufficient drinking water
  
• Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to protect against sun exposure
  
• Binoculars for better wildlife viewing
  
• Camera (with extra batteries if required) – remember that flash photography is not allowed
  

4. Health and Safety

• If you are travelling with elderly people or infants, prefer the morning safari to avoid afternoon heat.
  
• Those with dust allergies should carry masks as the safari routes can be dusty, especially in dry seasons.
  

5. Responsible Tourism

• Do not litter in the park. Carry back plastic bottles and wrappers.
  
• Do not feed animals or attempt to attract their attention for photographs.
  
• Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance while photographing or observing them.
  

Wildlife You Can See at Ambardi Safari Park

While the highlight of the safari remains the Asiatic lions, Ambardi Safari Park is also home to several other wildlife species, including:

• Leopards
  
• Nilgai (blue bull)
  
• Spotted deer (chital)
  
• Wild boars
  
• Sambar deer
  
• Peafowl
  
• Various reptiles and endemic bird species
  

The guides are well-trained and provide insightful information about each species, their behaviour, and conservation status, making the safari educational and engaging.

How to Reach Ambardi Safari Park

Ambardi Safari Park is located near Dhari in the Amreli district. The nearest major towns and cities are:

• Dhari: 3 km
  
• Sasan Gir: 35 km
  
• Junagadh: 60 km
  
• Rajkot Airport: 150 km
  

You can reach Ambardi Safari Park by hiring a taxi from Sasan Gir, Junagadh, or Rajkot. Public buses also ply till Dhari, from where local transport is available.

Conclusion

For travellers seeking an authentic wildlife experience away from crowds, Ambardi Safari Park is an ideal destination in Gujarat. With its easy accessibility, affordable safari charges, and high chances of lion sightings, it promises a fulfilling adventure for all nature enthusiasts. By following the timings, understanding entry fees, and keeping these travel tips in mind, your visit to Ambardi Safari Park will not just be memorable but also responsible and meaningful.