Discovering an Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: Gujarat's Secret Retreats Await You
For those seeking an authentic wildlife adventure beyond the well-known parks, Gujarat offers a treasure trove of hidden gems. These lesser-known spots provide unique experiences, combined with scenic beauty and cultural immersion. Here's a guide to some of the must-visit destinations in Gujarat:
Thol Wildlife Sanctuary
Located near Ahmedabad, this sanctuary is famous for its large flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and cranes. Early morning bird watching and photography sessions, as well as nature walks around the wetland, are popular activities here.
Barda Hills Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to Asiatic lions, leopards, and diverse bird species, Barda Hills offers guided wildlife safaris for big cats and birds, hiking to hilltop temples, exploring natural springs, and learning about medicinal plants.
Wilson Hills
Rare glimpses of tropical forest wildlife and birdwatching opportunities can be found in Wilson Hills. Trekking through forest roads, visiting tribal villages, and enjoying panoramic sea views are some of the activities available here.
Dholavira Wildlife Area
Primarily a paradise for birdwatching, Dholavira offers birdwatching tours, nature photography, and exploring the natural habitat around the archaeological site.
Purna Wildlife Sanctuary (near Saputara)
Rich in birds, reptiles, and mammals, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Saputara, offers trekking, wildlife spotting, exploring tribal culture through eco stays and homestays, and slow-paced nature walks.
Saputara Hill Station
Adjacent to Purna Sanctuary, Saputara Hill Station offers boating on Saputara Lake, visiting waterfalls, cultural visits (tribal museum, temples), and attending monsoon festivals.
Mahal Eco Tourism Campsite
Located in the Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, Mahal Eco Tourism Campsite offers an authentic wilderness experience with well-planned trails, bird-watching opportunities, and cultural programs. The campsite is also located in the Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Dahod district.
Zarwani Waterfall
Zarwani Waterfall, one of Gujarat's most spectacular natural attractions in the Narmada district, transforms into a thunderous spectacle during the monsoon season. The area offers excellent opportunities for trekking, nature photography, and experiencing the region's rich biodiversity.
Girmal Waterfall
Gujarat's highest waterfall, Girmal Waterfall comes alive during monsoons, creating a spectacular display as water cascades down rocky cliffs surrounded by dense forests. State transport buses and private luxury coaches run from Waghai and Ahmedabad to Girmal Waterfall, while Vadodara airport provides the closest air connectivity.
Kanjeta Eco Campsite
Surrounded by fruit orchards, spice gardens, and the River Panam, Kanjeta Eco Campsite offers an immersive natural experience through sustainable tourism with traditional architecture and rural Gujarat culture. The campsite is well-connected by road through NH-8 that passes via Baroda, and Vadodara airport is the closest at 170 km. Besides exploring the spice garden and fruit garden, guests can enjoy guided jungle walks, wildlife spotting, especially sloths, camping under the stars with campfire activities, and relaxing near the Panam River.
Train is easily accessible from Dahod (70 km) and Godhra (85 km) to Kanjeta Eco Campsite, and the nearest railway station connections are available to Mahal Eco Tourism Campsite from major cities. For those travelling to Zarwani Waterfall, Vadodara railway station (90 km) provides good connectivity to major cities.
These hidden wildlife destinations in Gujarat provide a unique blend of wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences, making them ideal for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures.
- For nature enthusiasts, Gujarat's home-and-garden spots like Kanjeta Eco Campsite, surrounded by fruit orchards and spice gardens, offer an immersive and authentic lifestyle experience amidst rural Gujarat.
- In addition to wildlife safaris and spotting exotic birds, travelers can explore diverse cultures and scenic beauty, making Gujarat a must-visit for those seeking a lifestyle blend of home-and-garden, travel, and home-and-garden experiences beyond the ordinary.
