The Gir Forest National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary (also known as Sasan-Gir), is a forest and wildlife sanctuary in Gujarat, India. Established in 1965, with a total area of 1,412 km2 (545 sq mi) (about 258 km2 (100 sq mi) for the fully protected area the national park and 1,153 km2 (445 sq mi) for the Sanctuary). It is the sole home of the Asiatic lions (Panthera leo persica) and is considered to be one of the most important protected areas in Asia due to its supported species. The ecosystem of Gir, with its diverse flora and fauna, is protected as a result of the efforts of the government forest department, wildlife activists and NGOs.