A Landmark Project for North Gujarat
In a significant move to boost ecotourism, the Gujarat Forest Department is developing what is being called Asia's first desert-themed drive-through night safari. The project, officially named the Desert Zoological Park and Night Safari, recently received
approval from the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). It will be established on 103 hectares of government land in Juna Deesa, in the Banaskantha district, at an estimated cost of ₹542.14 crore. Officials have highlighted that the site was chosen for its natural sand dunes and proximity to the Banas river, offering an ideal landscape for a desert-themed park.
What to Expect After Dark
The main attraction will be the international-standard night safari, allowing visitors to see nocturnal animals in their element. The facility is planned to have five dedicated night safari enclosures in addition to a separate day zoo. Visitors will be able to observe a wide range of species in specially designed habitats that mimic their natural surroundings. Among the Indian species planned for the park are the Asiatic lion, leopard, sloth bear, Indian wolf, striped hyena, desert fox, caracal, and chinkara. The experience is designed as a drive-through, offering a unique and immersive way to see these creatures after sunset.
A Global Collection of Desert Wildlife
The park aims to house a diverse collection of around 2,700 animals from nearly 83 species, including both native and exotic creatures. Beyond Indian wildlife, the zoo will feature species from other desert ecosystems around the world. Visitors can look forward to seeing African species like the Angolan giraffe, Grevy's zebra, African cheetah, and black rhinoceros. The park also plans to feature Australian desert animals, including kangaroos, emus, and wallabies, making it a truly global wildlife destination.
More Than Just a Safari
The Desert Zoological Park is being developed as a comprehensive facility with multiple attractions. Plans include a reptile safari, a rainforest biome, an aquarium, an aviary, a reptile house, and a butterfly park. For visitor convenience, the park will also feature an interpretation centre to provide educational information, a food court, a souvenir shop, and golf cart services to navigate the expansive grounds. This holistic approach ensures a full day of engagement for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
Conservation and Sustainability at its Core
Beyond being a tourist attraction, the project has a strong focus on conservation and education. Officials have stated that the facility will serve as a centre for the conservation breeding of rare species, as well as a hub for wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. The park is also being built with sustainability in mind, incorporating features like rainwater harvesting, solar energy utilisation, a sewage treatment plant, and solid waste management systems to minimise its environmental footprint.
Planning Your Future Visit
As the project has just received its final approval, an official opening date has not yet been announced. However, its strategic location in Deesa offers excellent road and railway connectivity. It is also situated near other popular tourist destinations like Ambaji and Nadabet, making it an accessible addition to a North Gujarat travel itinerary. Wildlife enthusiasts and potential visitors should keep an eye out for official announcements from the Gujarat Forest Department regarding opening timelines and booking procedures.
