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.