The much-anticipated Lion Safari at Sajjangarh is scheduled to open in November 2024. The Forest Department has nearly completed the project, and the tender process for safari vehicles has begun. A report seeking approval from the Chief Conservator of Forests has been prepared.

Safari Details

The Lion Safari will span an area of 20 hectares within the Sajjangarh Sanctuary, which covers a total of 5.19 square kilometers. The safari vehicles will operate from the parking area near the ticket counter. Visitors can enjoy the safari from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The fare is set at ₹160 per person, with each jeep accommodating up to 8 people. The safari route will cover 3 to 4 kilometers and last about one hour. Tourists will be taken to a viewpoint at the top of the hill, offering stunning views of Lake Pichola and Fatehsagar Lake.

Construction Updates

DFO DK Tiwari announced that the construction of the lions' holding area will be completed within a week. Approximately ₹3.50 crores have been spent on the entire project. The road along the track and tree planting have been completed. Sprinklers have been installed in the lower area to maintain moisture, enhancing the safari experience. The entry gate has a heritage design, although the inauguration date is yet to be finalized. It is noteworthy that a leopard safari is also being developed at Jaisamand, marking the district's second safari.

Asiatic Lions Arrive

In July of this year, a pair of Asiatic lions was brought from Junagadh, Gujarat.This pair was part of an Animal Exchange Program, which included trading two pairs of foxes, one pair of hyenas, two pairs of jackals, one pair of wild cats, and two chinkaras. Currently, there are 6 lions in the bio park, comprising 2 Asiatic lions and 4 hybrids, including 3 males and 3 females.

New Reptile Section Coming Soon

The reptile section at Sajjangarh Bio Park is also nearing completion and is expected to open by the end of this year. This section will feature 10 different species of reptiles, including the common wolf snake, common crate, tree snake, green keelback, Russell's sand boa, common sand boa, rat snake, common cat snake, Russell's viper, and star tortoise. Tourists and locals will have the chance to see these snakes up close, contributing to the conservation of rare reptiles in the region.

Source: Media Reports