It originated in the Kathiawar peninsula in the state of Gujarat, and the name of the breed derives from that of the Gir Hills in that region.

[2]: 187 The Gyr originated in the Kathiawar peninsula in the state of Gujarat the name of the breed derives from that of the Gir Hills in that region.

[2]: 187  Its traditional breeding range extended into the Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagadh and Rajkot districts of the state.

In Brazil and other South American countries the Gir is used frequently because, as a Bos indicus breed, it is resistant to hot temperatures and tropical diseases.

The Gir is distinctive in appearance, typically having a rounded and domed forehead (being the only ultraconvex breed in the world), long pendulous ears and horns which spiral out and back.