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Gir Safari Fee Hike: Permit Charges May Rise After 11 Years

A safari at Gujarats Gir National Park, famous for its Asiatic lions, could become significantly more expensive as the state Forest Department is preparing a proposal to revise safari permit fees after nearly 11 years. If approved, the proposed fee structure is expected to increase the cost of a visit for both Indian and foreign tourists looking to experience the popular lion safari. Six-Seater Safari Fee Could Rise From Rs 800 to Rs 1,800 At present, tourists pay Rs 800 for a permit for a six-seater safari vehicle. Under the proposed revision, the fee could be increased to Rs 1,800. The proposed hike would more than double the existing permit charge, making the Gir jungle safari considerably more expensive for visitors. Higher Charges Proposed for Foreign Tourists Foreign visitors could also face a substantial increase in safari permit charges. The current permit fee for foreign tourists is $80, or around Rs 7,600. The Forest Department is reportedly considering increasing it to $125, approximately Rs 11,800. Eight-Seater Vehicles and Premium Permits in the Works The Forest Department is also considering the introduction of eight-seater safari vehicles to allow more visitors to experience the jungle in a single vehicle. Another proposal involves Tatkal and premium permits for tourists seeking last-minute or urgent safari bookings. The charges for these special permits could be Rs 20,000 or more, depending on the final fee structure. Why Is the Safari Fee Being Revised? Girs safari permit charges have not seen a major revision in the past 11 years. The Forest Department is now considering a fee increase in view of the rising expenditure involved in forest management, wildlife protection, security and tourist facilities. Officials have also reportedly examined safari charges in other states before preparing the proposed fee structure. The revised charges are intended to reflect the costs associated with managing the protected area while continuing to provide visitors with a safe and well-regulated wildlife experience. Tourists Await Final Announcement The proposed fee revision has become a talking point among tourists, particularly those who make advance bookings months before their planned visit to Gir. However, the new rates have not yet been finalised. Visitors will have to wait for the Forest Departments final decision on whether the proposal is approved, when the revised charges will come into effect and what the final rates for regular, Tatkal and premium permits will be. Gir National Park is one of Indias most prominent wildlife destinations and the last remaining natural habitat of the Asiatic lion. Any significant increase in safari permit charges could therefore have a noticeable impact on the overall cost of visiting the park.

31 Aug 2026 12:44 pm