Gir National Park, the pride of Gujarat and the last abode of the majestic Asiatic lions, offers travellers a rare opportunity to witness untamed wilderness. Nestled on the edge of this iconic sanctuary, Araiya Gir is redefining luxury hospitality by weaving together sustainability, cultural heritage, and modern wellness.
In an exclusive interview with Devansh Singh, General Manager, Araiya Gir, we explore how the resort integrates the spirit of Gir’s wilderness into its guest experiences while staying true to conservation values, authentic local traditions, and a signature identity that resonates with today’s mindful travellers.
1.How does Araiya Gir integrate the spirit of this wilderness into its guest experiences while maintaining sustainability and conservation values?
At Araiya Gir, the wilderness is not just a backdrop, it is the soul of our experience. We have consciously designed our spaces to immerse guests in the raw beauty of Gir while keeping sustainability at the core. From eco-sensitive architecture that minimizes environmental impact, to using local materials and water management systems, we ensure our practices align with conservation values. Even in our amenities, we are committed to being eco-friendly—our bath and body essentials are paraben- and sulphate-free, reflecting our focus on health and sustainability. Our guided safaris and nature walks encourage guests to learn about biodiversity and the importance of conservation, ensuring every guest leaves with a deeper connection to Gir’s ecosystem.
2.Gujarat is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant villages, and traditional hospitality. In what ways does Araiya Gir weave these elements into its offerings to give travellers an authentic local experience?
Gujarat’s culture is full of colour, craft, and community, and we bring that essence into our hospitality at Araiya Gir. Our cultural evenings feature folk music and storytelling inspired by the traditions of the Maldharis and Siddis tribes, allowing guests to connect with Gir beyond just its wildlife. Interiors are influenced by regional craftsmanship, and our culinary offerings highlight authentic Kathiawadi flavours. Guests also have the opportunity to interact with nearby villages and artisans, experiencing firsthand the richness of Gujarat’s living culture. This integration ensures travellers take back not just memories of a safari, but also an understanding of the land’s people and traditions.
Araiya Gir positions itself as a blend of contemporary elegance and wellness retreats. How do you strike a balance between modern luxury and the natural simplicity of Gir’s surroundings?
We believe true luxury lies in comfort that feels natural and intuitive. At Araiya Gir, our design reflects contemporary elegance but always in harmony with the surroundings. The architecture allows for open views of the wilderness and our serene lake, with natural light and earthy tones that echo the Gir landscape. Our wellness philosophy focuses on mindful living—whether it’s through nutritious, locally inspired food, yoga sessions in the open air, guided nature walks, or simply pausing to enjoy the stillness of the lake. This balance ensures our guests feel rejuvenated while remaining deeply connected to the simplicity of Gir’s natural environment.
How does Araiya Gir ensure a unique yet consistent signature identity?
Araiya Gir’s identity rests on three pillars—personalized service, respect for nature, and a sense of place. Every guest journey is thoughtfully curated, from cultural touchpoints to wellness activities, ensuring experiences are both unique and memorable. Yet, our consistent hallmark lies in the way we deliver them: warm hospitality, immersive encounters with nature, and authenticity at every step. This signature approach ensures that no matter when or how a guest visits, the Araiya Gir experience remains reliably distinct and meaningful. Travelers today are increasingly looking for immersive and meaningful journeys.
What role do you see Araiya Gir playing in shaping Gujarat as a top safari and eco-tourism destination in India?
We see Araiya Gir as a bridge between Gujarat’s wilderness and modern travellers who seek purposeful journeys. By offering safaris that are educational, stays that are sustainable, and experiences that are culturally and spiritually enriching, we are creating a narrative where luxury and eco-tourism coexist beautifully. Araiya Gir is not just a retreat—it is a starting point for travellers to truly connect with Gujarat’s wildlife, heritage, and community. Our vision is to make Gir one of India’s top safari and eco-tourism destinations, while ensuring conservation, wellness, and cultural respect remain at the heart of every journey.
