Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani announced that the state government would develop the state's second lion safari near mountain town Junagadh, around 60 kms. from Sasan, where lion safari is organized in Gir forest, the only abode of Asiatic lions in the world.

The second lion safari park is planned to come up in the dense forests surrounding Girnar which is the tallest mountain in Gujarat. Asiatic lions are also seen in and around the Girnar sanctuary. As per 2015 lion census, there are 33 lions in the Girnar sanctuary.

Besides Africa, Gir national park in Gujarat is the only place in the world where you can spot lions roaming free in the sanctuary. It is situated approximately 65 Kms South East of Junagarh District. The Government notified the large geographical extent of Sasan Gir as wildlife sanctuary on 18th September, 1965 in order to conserve the Asiatic Lion. It covers total area of 1412 square kilometers of which 258 Kms forms the core area of the National Park.

Mount Girnar and Junagadh are well known tourist places of Gujarat. Those who are interested in religious and heritage tourism throng these places from October to February every year. With the announcement of lion safari, the area would also attract wildlife lovers.

CM Rupani said that the state government had made all preparations and safari area would be opened within 3 months after approval from the Union Government.

"Just like the existing Sasan Gir lion safari, visitors will have to obtain permit from the forest department to enjoy lion safari in Girnar sanctuary.Those who have permit would be allowed to go inside the Girnar Sanctuary in open jeeps", said a senior official.