Kankai Safari in Gir National Park

Kankai Village Tour & Temple Visit ( Kankai Safari )

There is only one abode of Asiatic Lions in India, and that place is Sasan Gir National Park. This reserve is situated in the Junagadh district of Gujarat. The Gir jeep safari and the Devaliya jeep safari are the most popular among the wildlife enthusiasts. However, another adventure awaits in the heart of the forest, and that is Kankai Mata Temple saari. It is a highly revered temple dedicated to a local goddess named Kankai Mata. The temple is located inside the dense forest of Gir National Park.

As the temple is centrally located within the Gir National Park, it offers visitors a higher chance of spotting the Asiatic lion, along with a variety of other wildlife such as Bengal leopards, golden jackals, striped hyenas, wild boar, and four-horned antelopes, etc. during the Kankai Temple Safari. This serene temple holds great spiritual significance among the local villagers. Therefore, tourists should maintain the sanctity of the place and should not conduct any behaviour that might hurt the locals’ sentiments. It is advisable to follow the instructions of the guide and the driver and enjoy the safari.

It is important to note that the Kankai Temple Safari is primarily a pilgrimage and village tour, not a substitute for the traditional jungle safari offered in Gir National Park or Devaliya Safari Park. Contrary to claims by some tour operators, this tour does not include an open jeep safari. Instead, it is conducted solely in Innova cars, and sightings of big cats on this trip are rare. Visitors should be mindful of this distinction when planning their visit.

Brief Mythological Background of Kankai Mata Temple

The Kankai Temple, also known as the Shri Kankeshwari Mataji Temple or Kankai Mataji Temple, is a revered place of worship located approximately 5 km deep within the Sasan Gir National Park. The locals believe Kankai Mata to be their protector. The exact data on the origin of the temple is unknown, but it is wrapped in various local folklore. According to local legends, the temple was built following a divine vision that led a faithful devotee to a location favoured by the goddess. Another story tells of King Kanak Chavda, who established the city of Kankai in the 8th century, honouring Maa Kankai as its principal deity.

Apart from the mythological part, the hidden location of Kankai Mata Temple creates a thrilling experience for adventure lovers. The place is also significant to devotees who pay their reverence to the goddess.

The Kankai Village Tour Timing and Entry Fees @ INR 5500 Only

• Morning: - 6.00 AM to 12:00 PM

• Evening: - 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM

1. It is recommended to book your visit to Kankai Temple online for a seamless experience.

2. Only 50 people are allowed in a safari.

3. Ensure that all personal information is accurately provided, as incomplete forms will not be accepted.

4. Submission of the required documents is essential and must be completed with precise details.

5. Once the process is completed, you will be eligible to enjoy the Kankai village tour.

6. An Innova car can accommodate up to six passengers and one child between the ages of 3 and 12.

7. Private vehicles are also permitted for this tour.

8. A special entry permit is required for this visit.

Kankai Safari Experience - The Kankai forest tour offers an exhilarating opportunity to experience both the region's rich wildlife and the revered Kankai Mata Shrine. Since it is deep inside the first, therefore special permit is required to enjoy the safari here. This adventure promises an immersive encounter with the area's diverse flora and fauna, enhancing the spiritual visit to the temple.