In just two years, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat has transformed from a quiet stretch of wilderness into one of India’s most exciting conservation success stories. Located across the districts of Porbandar and Devbhumi Dwarka, this 192 square kilometre sanctuary has gone from hosting a lone male lion in 2023 to sheltering a vibrant pride of seventeen, including six adults and eleven cubs.
This remarkable turnaround is the result of both natural migration and careful conservation planning. The arrival of five lionesses after the male’s settlement in Barda led to successful breeding, establishing the sanctuary as a viable second home for the Asiatic lion after the iconic Gir forest.
Gujarat’s broader lion recovery story is equally inspiring. The state’s Asiatic lion population has grown by 32 percent since 2020, reaching an impressive 891 in 2025. Over half of these now live outside Gir, spread across satellite habitats like Barda. This dispersal is part of a long-term strategy to secure the species’ survival while reducing the risks of overconcentration in one location.
The success at Barda is rooted in habitat restoration, with efforts to remove invasive species and revive native grasslands, ensuring a healthy prey base for the lions. These ecological improvements have created the perfect conditions for the species to thrive.
Recognising its potential, the Union Environment Ministry and the Gujarat government have announced a ₹180 crore investment to further enhance Barda’s conservation and ecotourism appeal. Plans include a 248-hectare safari park, improved visitor facilities, and educational experiences that bring the story of the Asiatic lion closer to the public.
Once a quiet sanctuary, Barda is now alive with the roars of its new residents. Its rise from a single migrant lion to a thriving pride is a testament to Gujarat’s commitment to conservation. With strategic investment and thoughtful management, Barda is set to become not just a refuge for wildlife but also a centre for learning and connection between people and nature.
For more stories on India’s most inspiring wildlife destinations, follow Travel Moves on Instagram and Facebook.
