When you think of Asiatic lions in India, Gir National Park in Gujarat is probably the first place that comes to mind. But did you know another wildlife sanctuary in the state is now home to 17 Asiatic lions? Located in the Saurashtra region, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary has witnessed the return of these big cats after they were last recorded here in 1879!
Asiatic Lions Have Returned To Barda Wildlife Sanctuary In Gujarat
A recent study published in PLOS One has found that Barda Wildlife Sanctuary has suitable habitat, adequate prey and the environmental conditions needed to support a lion population over the long term. This could make the sanctuary an important addition to India’s ongoing efforts to conserve its Asiatic lions.
The return of lions to Barda is significant, particularly because Gir has long been the primary stronghold of Asiatic lions in India. According to the study, both natural dispersal and conservation efforts have contributed to the growing population in Barda.
According to NDTV, a male lion moved into the sanctuary from the southwestern parts of Gir, after which the Gujarat Forest Department introduced five female lions to strengthen the population.
To understand how the animals were adapting to their new surroundings, researchers fitted six lions, one male and five females, with radio collars. They recorded more than 169,000 GPS locations between January 2023 and July 2025, tracking the lions’ movements, home ranges, social interactions and feeding habits.
Also Read: Did You Know There’s An Island Called ‘Christmas Day’, Home To Millions Of Red Crabs?
Where Is Barda Wildlife Sanctuary Located?
Spread across 192.31 square kilometres, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Gujarat’s Saurashtra region, across parts of Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts. It lies approximately 15 kilometres from Porbandar town.
The sanctuary was declared a protected area in February 1979. That same year, the state government launched the Gir-Barda Project to develop the area as a second home for Asiatic lions.
Beyond its big cats, Barda is known for its diverse vegetation, including babul, dhav, rayan, ber, jamun, amli and bamboo. The sanctuary also supports medicinal plants such as guggal.
Leopards, hyenas and jackals are among the other animals found here, while deer species such as sambar, chital and chinkara contribute to the region’s wildlife diversity.
Can You Visit Barda Wildlife Sanctuary?
If you enjoy exploring lesser-known wildlife destinations, Barda is one to keep on your Gujarat travel list. Its forests, varied vegetation and wildlife make it an interesting destination for nature enthusiasts looking beyond the state’s better-known attractions.
Morning and afternoon safaris are reported to be available in the sanctuary. However, visitors should check with the Gujarat Forest Department for current safari operations, entry permissions and timings before planning a visit.
Also Read: What Is Sak Yant, The Sacred Thai Tattoo Tradition That Millions Believe Offers Protection?
For a species whose survival in India has long been associated with Gir, Barda’s return to the picture marks an important development in the story of Asiatic lion conservation.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Prayag Dave
FAQs
Where is Barda Wildlife Sanctuary located?
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Gujarat’s Saurashtra region, across parts of Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka districts. Spread across 192.31 square kilometres, it is known for its diverse vegetation and wildlife.
How many Asiatic lions live in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary?
Barda Wildlife Sanctuary is home to 17 Asiatic lions. The population includes lions that have naturally moved into the region and those introduced as part of conservation efforts.
Why were Asiatic lions absent from Barda for nearly 144 years?
Asiatic lions were last recorded in Barda in 1879 before returning to the sanctuary in January 2023. Their return began with a male lion naturally dispersing from the Gir landscape.