Gir Serai - Ihcl SeleQtions

Nature and wildlife lovers rejoice. For there is a place in the Gir forests of Gujarat, India where you could not only stay in luxury but also have the benefit of observing lions, deer, antelopes, owls and other animals in action from the nearby Gir National Park. That place is called Gir Serai by IHCL SeleQtions or in other words a Taj hotel I would like to refer as Gir Serai Taj and it is located right behind the offices of Sinh (Lion) Sadan i.e. Forest Department's sprawling office which also has a well stocked souvenir shop containing everything lion related ever! My solo stay in Gir Serai Taj was during the last week of June 2024 and coming from Diu Airport via a connecting flight through Ahmedabad from Delhi; I had a journey of over 7 hours to reach Diu Airport and then 2 hours further to reach the hotel. But all my tiredness went away, when I saw the smiling faces of Gir Serai Taj's staff to welcome me and the GM Mr. Rajiv Chandran himself was there to share some Chai and give an overview of the property and the Gir forest/safari. I was told that the hotel is a preferred destination for discerning travelers who prefer to stay in Taj's comfort while going for Gir Forest Safari (which ends in mid-June, though a smaller one operates round the year) and also for those who come there to do Darshan of Shree Somnath Temple which is around 50 minutes away by road. From the moment one enters the property through the narrow road, the trees serve as a reminder that you are now in the lap of nature and the nature/wildlife as such must be respected first since we in their home in the jungle, not vice versa. Bearing that in mind, I was amazed at how the entire team of Taj Gir Serai relentlessly worked to provide the signature Taj experience with their limited resources in addition to operating in a remote location! Few honorable mentions (in no particular order): 1. Mr. Asim Maity, Front Office Supervisor helped me with the overall hotel details before I made my booking and was instrumental in a smooth checkout while answering my queries regarding the invoice. He also got my boarding pass printed for me. 2. Mr. Milan Patal, Guest Service Assistant sent the cab rates and also coordinated the cab driver's contact details for my Diu Airport pickup to hotel. 3. Mr. Irfan, Housekeeping Supervisor alongwith Mr. Maibul and Mr. Kaushik did a great job in making my room good as new with a hint of a ginger-based room freshener when I requested for the same. Mr. Irfan even accompanied me to Sinh Sadan on my last day of stay to help me getting some souvenirs from the Gift Shop. 4. Chef Rakesh Kumar from the Gumtree Restaurant took my special order for Mushroom Soup, even though the same is not on the menu and served it with some sides of cheesy garlic bread. A Chef who truly is asking for feedback on his preparations and never says no to any custom dish, I was impressed! 5. Mr. Zaheed from the Gumtree Restaurant knowing fully well my penchant for Chai,

This is the nearest hotel to Sinh Sadan where all safari’s start. Hotel staff arranged pick up and drop for safari from hotel itself. Hotel also has a liquor permit counter, if a visitor wish to avail. Staff is courteous and friendly. Food is good and buffet is the best option. Pool is clean and maintained. Small kids play area too is well maintained. Overall a very satisfying stay.

Nice hospitality by Management, Reception area worth to be more plesent. Ms.Moumita's welcoming was heart touching. I wonder when I saw her singing songs at karaoke night to entertain guests. In restaurant Mr.Zahid also works heartily and tried to give maximum from his side with smiling face.

Impressed by the exceptional care and attention provided by the entire staff, with special thanks to Zahid for his outstanding service. I also want to commend Rajeev, the General Manager, for his remarkable leadership, which clearly reflects in the quality of service offered at the property.

Very good Experience. Location was good. We went there and stayed for 1 night. Staffs were superb. Room view fantastic. Indoor games were available like carom board, chess, Table Tennis. Rooms interiors are getting upgraded and the new designs are fabulous

The staffs have a great attitude towards guests and goes extra mile to help you and ensure stay is very comfortable. Property could be managed little better but I would highly recommend this for staff. Staff helped us with very early check-ins and that was a relief as we had senior citizens and they offered other help too without expecting additional pay

It's a lovely property. Little bit more attention to detail - the play area has worn down TT and Carrom Board. Cycle was available only for adults and tyres did not have air. Some renovation is going on, would suggest more frequent cleaning of the premise as there was dust. Overall maintenance can be one notch better

I had stayed here with my family. Had good meals, good service and a great stay and Apu was really an amazing person. The property is really good and well kept. The staff is really helpful and warm. More games and activities can be included. Thank you.

It's a small but beautiful IHCL hotel just in front of Sasan Gir bhawan from where safari starts. Kathiawari thali is excellent. The staff is well-mannered and very good. The hotel property has been maintained well. The paintings on the wall are very beautiful