The last home of the Asiatic lion (Panthera leo Lersica) is 59 km from Junagadh via Visavadar. The sanctuary, which covers 1400 sq km, was set up to protect the lion and its habit, and in this respect has been a success; since 1980 numbers have increased from less than 200 to an estimated 250. However, while the lions have been the winners, the local herders ( the maaldharis) have lost valubale grazing land for their cattle.The best time to visit the sanctuary is from December to April, and it is closed completely from 16 June to 15 October. If there has been a heavy monsoon, the sanctuary may open later.

Apart from the lions there are various species of other mammals, including bears, hyenas, foxes and a number of species of deer and antelope. The deer include the largest Indian antelope (the nilgai), the graceful chinkara gazelle, the chousingha and the barking deer. You may also see parrots, peacocks and monkeys.

The lions themselves are elusive but you'd be unlucky not to see at least one on a safari, although it would be safer to allow for a couple of trips if you're determined to see one. Morning safaris are generally a better bet than those in the afternoons. Whatever else you do, take a jeep and not a minibus. Awhile the latter stick to the main tracks, the jeep can take the small trails where you're much likely to come across lions.

Before you can go on safari, you must get a permit. These are issued on the spot at the Sinh Sadan Forest Lodge office . Jeeps are available from the lodge office every day between 7 and 11 am and 3 and 6.30 pm during winter (October to February) and from 6.30 am during summer (March to June).
Twelve km from Sasan is the Gir Interpretation Zone, at Devalia, within the sanctuary precincts. The 4.12 sq.km zone has a cross-section of the wildlife in Gir. No private vehicles are permitted in the zone.

There are many species of reptiles in the sanctuary. A crocodile-rearing centre has been established next to Sihn Sadan Lodge, where hatchlings are reared and then released into their natural habitat.