Just 15 km from Porbandar, the Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Saurashtra’s most underrated wildlife destinations a rugged, forested reserve once used as a royal hunting ground and now emerging as a genuine second home for Gujarat’s Asiatic lions. With over 650 plant species, leopards, hyenas, and a growing lion population, Barda offers a quieter, less crowded alternative to Gir for wildlife lovers exploring the Porbandar–Jamnagar region. This guide covers the sanctuary’s history, wildlife, safari details, and how to plan your visit.
About Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread across roughly 192.31 sq km in the hilly terrain between Porbandar and Jamnagar districts, Barda Hills gets its local names Rana Barda and Jam Barda from its history as private hunting ground for the princely states of Ranavav (Porbandar) and Jamnagar. The sanctuary was formally established in 1979 under the state’s Gir-Barda Project, launched specifically to develop Barda as a potential second habitat for the Asiatic lion, reducing the species’ complete dependence on the Gir forest.
That vision has increasingly become reality in recent years, as Asiatic lions from Gir have naturally begun expanding into the Barda landscape, supported by conservation efforts backed by both state and central government. Alongside lions, the sanctuary remains an important watershed for surrounding villages, with the Joghri and Bileshvary rivers flowing through it.
Wildlife and Flora at Barda Hills
Barda is unusually rich in floral diversity for its size, with around 650 recorded plant species the highest floral diversity anywhere in Gujarat. Expect teak, kadam, banyan, and medicinal plants like guggal and ashwagandha, alongside dense undergrowth of grasses and creepers.
On the wildlife side, the sanctuary is home to:
- Asiatic lions – an increasingly established presence as lions expand out from Gir
- Leopards, hyenas, and wolves – the sanctuary’s main carnivores
- Chinkara, blue bull (nilgai), and sambar – the primary herbivore species
- Crocodiles and chameleons, along with three of Gujarat’s four common venomous snake species
- Birdlife, including spotted eagles and crested hawk-eagles, with some sources citing over 400 recorded bird species across the wider Barda landscape
What to Do at Barda Hills
Jungle Safari
Guided jeep safaris are the main way to explore the sanctuary, run through the Kapurdi Forest Checkpost near Kapurdi Nes in Bhanvad taluka. The Phase-1 safari route follows the scenic Kilganga River, offering the best chance of spotting lions, leopards, and hyenas in their natural habitat.
Nature Walks and Trekking
Beyond the safari zones, Barda’s hilly terrain offers genuine trekking opportunities, with some routes requiring permission from forest staff check locally before heading off marked paths.
Bird Sanctuary Birdwatching
The Bird sanctuary and surrounding hills are ideal for birdwatching, with raptors like the Crested Hawk-Eagle among the most sought-after sightings.
Timings and Entry Fee
- Timings: Generally, the sanctuary is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Monsoon Closure: However, the sanctuary is usually closed from June to September during the monsoon season.
- Entry Fee: Meanwhile, the entry fee is approximately ₹20 per person, while additional charges apply for vehicles and cameras.
- Safari Booking: Therefore, it is best to book your safari in advance through the forest department or a local tour operator, especially if you want to increase your chances of spotting lions or leopards.
- Time Needed: Overall, a half-day safari is enough to explore the sanctuary. Additionally, you can extend your visit by combining it with sightseeing in Porbandar.
Best Time to Visit
October to February is the recommended window, offering the coolest, most comfortable weather and the best chances of wildlife sightings. Since the sanctuary closes entirely during monsoon (June–September), plan around this if you’re specifically visiting for the safari.
How to Reach Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
By Road: Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is about 15 km from Porbandar, 100 km from Jamnagar, 170 km from Rajkot, and approximately 410 km from Ahmedabad. The sanctuary is easily accessible by private taxi, self-drive car, or GSRTC state buses from major cities across Gujarat.
By Train: Porbandar Railway Station is the nearest, roughly 15–20 km away.
By Air: Porbandar Airport is the closest, around 15 km from the sanctuary.
Who Is Barda Hills Best For?
- Wildlife enthusiasts – a genuine chance to see Asiatic lions outside Gir, alongside leopards and hyenas
- Botanists and nature photographers – exceptional plant diversity for a sanctuary of this size
- Trekkers – Barda’s hilly terrain offers a more rugged experience than Gujarat’s flatter wildlife reserves
- Travellers combining Porbandar sightseeing – an easy half-day add-on to a Porbandar city visit
Where to Eat Near Barda Hills
Most dining options are concentrated in Porbandar, just 15 km away, offering everything from authentic Kathiyawadi thalis to fresh coastal Gujarati seafood. If you’re exploring more of the Saurashtra region, consider visiting nearby attractions and local eateries in Porbandar to experience the area’s rich culinary heritage.
Other Places to Visit
- Marine National Park, Jamnagar – India’s first marine national park, famous for coral reefs, mangroves, dolphins, and diverse marine life.
- Uparkot Fort, Junagadh – A historic fort with ancient walls, stepwells, Buddhist caves, and panoramic views of Junagadh.
- Mahatma Gandhi Museum, Rajkot – Located at Gandhi’s former school, this museum showcases his early life, education, and contributions to India’s freedom movement.
- Khirasara Palace, Rajkot – A beautifully restored heritage palace offering royal architecture, luxury stays, and scenic countryside views.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, Asiatic lions from the nearby Gir forest have increasingly established themselves in the Barda landscape in recent years, supported by ongoing conservation efforts. Sightings aren’t guaranteed on every safari, but lions are now a genuine part of the sanctuary’s wildlife.
Entry is approximately ₹20 per person, with additional charges for vehicles and cameras. It’s worth confirming current rates locally, as prices can be revised over time.
No, the sanctuary typically closes from June to September during the monsoon season. The best visiting window is October to February.
The sanctuary is about 15 km from Porbandar, making it an easy half-day trip from the city.
Leopards, hyenas, wolves, chinkara, blue bull (nilgai), sambar, crocodiles, and chameleons are among the wildlife found here, along with a rich variety of birds and butterflies.
Additionally, book your safari in advance if you hope to see lions or leopards, as all safaris are managed by the forest department through the Kapurdi Forest Checkpost.
Final Thoughts
Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary proves that Gujarat’s wildlife extends far beyond Gir. This rugged, botanically rich reserve is becoming an important second home for Asiatic lions. Whether you’re hoping for a safari sighting or a peaceful nature escape near Porbandar, it’s well worth the visit. Planning your Porbandar trip? Travel the road less traveled with us. Drop your questions in the comments, and we’ll help you plan the perfect itinerary.
