Gujarat, India – Known for its cultural heritage, ancient temples, and breathtaking landscapes, Gujarat is now setting its sights on becoming a global wildlife tourism hub. The state government has announced the development of upcoming Lion-Leopard Safari Parks, along with India’s first cheetah breeding center, a project that promises to transform the way visitors experience the state’s biodiversity.
Expected to open by 2025, the new safari parks will not only attract domestic travelers but also position Gujarat as a must-visit destination for international tourists, including those from the US, who are increasingly drawn to eco-tourism and wildlife adventures.
Where the New Safari Parks Will Be Located
Two safari parks are being developed on the model of the famous Devalia Safari Park. The first will be located at Narayan Sarovar in Kutch, while the second is coming up at Naliya-Mandvi (Una taluka) in Gir-Somnath district, about 8 kilometers from the scenic Diu beaches.
- Narayan Sarovar Safari Park (Kutch): This park will include secure enclosures for both lions and leopards, giving tourists a rare opportunity to see these predators in their natural surroundings.
- Naliya-Mandvi Safari Park (Gir-Somnath): Spread over nearly 400 hectares, this safari will complement Gujarat’s coastal tourism, especially for visitors exploring Diu.
Alongside these, the Banni area of Kutch has been approved for a cheetah breeding center covering more than 500 hectares. This will be India’s first dedicated breeding facility for cheetahs, marking a milestone in wildlife conservation.
Government Approval and Conservation Goals
The project has received a green signal from the Central Zoo Authority of India (CZAI), a move hailed as a landmark step in combining tourism growth with conservation.
Officials say the goal is two-fold:
- Boosting Tourism Revenue – By creating new attractions that can rival global safari experiences, Gujarat hopes to draw wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers from across the world.
- Conservation Awareness – By housing lions, leopards, and cheetahs in semi-wild conditions, the parks will promote eco-tourism while educating the public about the importance of protecting endangered species.
Why It Matters for Global Tourists
With international travelers, especially from the US and Europe, showing growing interest in eco-friendly and authentic wildlife experiences, Gujarat’s move could not be more timely. The phrase “US Upcoming Lion-Leopard Safari Parks” has been trending in global travel circles, as American tourists plan their next big adventure trips to Asia.
Unlike zoos, these safari parks will allow visitors to witness the majestic Asiatic lions and leopards roaming in open, secure habitats. Combined with guided safaris, it will provide a far more immersive experience than conventional wildlife parks.
For US tourists, many of whom are already drawn to Gujarat for the White Desert of Kutch or the historic Somnath Temple, the addition of world-class safari parks offers yet another reason to visit.
Boost for Local Economy and Communities
Tourism experts believe the parks will bring enormous benefits to local communities by generating:
- Employment opportunities for guides, naturalists, and hospitality workers.
- Business growth for hotels, resorts, and eco-lodges near the parks.
- Infrastructure development including better roads, eco-friendly transport, and visitor centers.
Eco-tourism also ensures that local people become stakeholders in conservation, creating a balance between livelihood and wildlife protection.
Also read: Project Cheetah India: How India Brought Back the World’s Fastest Animal After 70 Years
Scheduled Opening and Global Expectations
The parks are scheduled to open by 2025, and preparations are already underway to meet international tourism standards. Guided jeep safaris, eco-friendly visitor centers, and strict safety measures will be part of the visitor experience.
Wildlife photographers, researchers, and adventure travelers are expected to arrive in large numbers once the gates open. Travel agencies in the US and UK are reportedly already in talks to include the Gujarat safaris in their wildlife tour packages for Asia.
Also read: Gir National Park’s Famous Lion Pair is No More: The End of an Unforgettable Bond
A New Chapter in Wildlife Tourism
With the Upcoming Lion-Leopard Safari Parks, Gujarat is not only strengthening its position as a leader in wildlife tourism within India but also entering the global stage. These parks will offer experiences that rival African safaris, while highlighting India’s own unique biodiversity.
The project also symbolizes Gujarat’s forward-looking approach—balancing tourism growth with environmental stewardship. By 2025, travelers could witness not just lions and leopards in the wild, but also India’s first efforts at cheetah breeding, making the state an unmissable destination for wildlife enthusiasts worldwide.
Also read: Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary: A Hidden Gem of Gujarat’s Ecological Heritage
Conclusion
From the white sands of Kutch to the beaches of Diu and the spiritual charm of Somnath, Gujarat has always been a magnet for tourists. With the addition of upcoming Lion-Leopard Safari Parks and the pioneering cheetah breeding center, the state is now preparing for a new wave of international visitors.
For travelers in the US looking for upcoming Lion-Leopard Safari Parks, Gujarat may soon become the next big name in wildlife tourism—offering adventure, conservation, and cultural discovery, all in one unforgettable journey.
