About Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary — Porbandar, Gujarat
Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Gujarat’s most important wildlife reserves and a destination of genuine ecological significance. Spread across 192 square kilometres of the Barda Hills range, roughly 20km northeast of Porbandar, the sanctuary is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife including Asiatic lions — making it the second confirmed lion territory in Gujarat after the famous Gir National Park.
The landscape of the sanctuary is characterised by scrub forest, rocky hillocks, seasonal streams and grasslands that support a healthy food chain. Lions, leopards, hyenas, jackals, sambar deer, chinkara gazelle and nilgai share the terrain. The sanctuary also hosts Indian star tortoises, marsh crocodiles in seasonal water bodies, and is an excellent birdwatching destination with over 200 recorded bird species.
Unlike the heavily touristed Gir, Barda offers a more intimate and less crowded wildlife experience. The sanctuary operates guided jeep safaris and nature walks. Early morning safaris (5:30–8:30 AM) offer the best chance of wildlife sightings. The Forest Department issues limited daily permits to protect the habitat.
What to Do
Activities at Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
01
Jeep Safari
Guided jeep safaris are the main activity — knowledgeable forest guides take you through lion and leopard territories in the early morning.
Safari
Wildlife
Adventure
02
Lion Spotting
Barda is one of only two territories in the world with free-ranging Asiatic lions. Early morning sightings are most common near water sources.
Lions
Wildlife
Rare
03
Bird Watching
Over 200 bird species including eagles, vultures, peacocks, bee-eaters and migratory waterfowl make Barda exceptional for birding.
Birdwatching
Nature
Photography
04
Nature Trails
Guided walking trails through the lower scrub forest — best for observing reptiles, smaller mammals and plant species up close.
Trekking
Nature
Walking
05
Photography
The dramatic rocky hillock landscape at golden hour is extraordinary for landscape photography, even on days when wildlife is elusive.
Photography
Landscape
Plan Your Visit
Timings, Entry & Best Season
Opening Hours
05:30 AM - 06:00 PM
All 7 Days (closed Mon in some seasons)
Best Time to Visit
Early morning safari 5:30–8:30 AM
Fewer crowds
Recommended Duration
3–5 hours
Best Season to Visit
☀️
October–February
Best Season
Cool weather, comfortable for exploring.
Gallery
Photos of Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
Photos coming soon.
Getting Here
How to Reach Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
By Private Car
20 km · 30 min
Take NH-151 northeast from Porbandar city towards Jamjodhpur. Sanctuary entrance is well-signed.
Depart by 5:00 AM for the morning safari.
Hire a taxi from Porbandar city for a full day trip including wait time during safari.
Full day taxi approx ₹1,200–1,500.
Before You Visit
Rules & Visitor Tips
Book the early morning safari (5:30 AM departure) — lion and leopard sightings are far more common at dawn.
Wear muted colours (khaki, grey, olive) — bright colours disturb wildlife.
Carry water and snacks — no refreshments available inside the sanctuary.
Book permits in advance with the Forest Department, especially for October–February peak season.
Do not make noise or play music — it frightens animals away and is prohibited.
Do not feed or approach any wildlife under any circumstances.
Do not litter inside the sanctuary — strict fines apply.
Do not go without a licensed guide — it is illegal and unsafe.
Visitor Reviews
What Visitors Say
Based on Google Reviews