Rajkot's Lion Safari Park Roars to Life!

Rajkot is on the verge of opening its much-anticipated lion safari park, with project completion estimated at 90%. The new facility, located next to the existing Pradhyuman Park Zoo, is slated for an opening as early as May, in time for the summer tourist season. This 30-hectare park received approval from the Central Zoo Authority in December 2023.

The Rajkot safari park is expected to alleviate pressure on the renowned Sasan Gir Lion Safari, which attracts over seven lakh visitors annually. By offering an alternative, especially during peak times like summer and holiday vacations, it aims to cater to tourists who might otherwise be unable to secure permits for Gir. The park's design meticulously simulates the natural habitat of the Gir forest, featuring a dense urban forest.

Significant progress has been made, with the compound wall, fencing, night shelters, inspection roads, watchtowers, and water points already finished. Ongoing work includes visitor amenities such as entrance plazas, parking areas, ticket counters, an interpretation center, a waiting lounge, and a food court. Officials anticipate visitor numbers comparable to the existing zoo, which already attracts around 7.5 lakh visitors each year.