Zarwani Waterfall Dhirkhadi, Gujarat: Hidden Wilderness Waterfall & Eco-Campsite Guide

Tucked away inside the dense Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Zarwani Waterfall is one of Gujarat’s best-kept secrets. Known for its pristine monsoon beauty, eco-tourism experiences, and jungle serenity, Zarwani offers travelers — from solo backpackers to couples on a nature escape — a refreshing break from Gujarat’s arid cityscapes.

And the best part? It’s just 4 hours from Ahmedabad, making it a perfect weekend getaway!

• Location: 28 km from Rajpipla, 12 km from Statue of Unity, and about 7 km beyond Thawadia checkpost, inside Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary.
• Best Season: Post-monsoon (June–September) when the waterfall is at its fullest; winter (Nov–Feb) is ideal for trekking in mild weather. Avoid mid-summer.

Season	Experience
Monsoon (July–September)	Full waterfall, lush jungle, best time
Winter (Oct–Feb)	Clear trails, cool air, good for birding
Summer (Avoid)	Dry waterfall, extreme heat

• By Air: The Nearest airport is Vadodara (~97 km, ~2 hrs drive).

• By Train: Vadodara station (~96 km) or Kevadiya Railway (~15 km). Local taxis and shared vehicles are available.

• By Road: From Rajpipla via NH8; onward through Thawadia checkpost (vehicle eco-fee: ₹400 car / ₹270 bike). The final 1 km walk includes ankle-to-knee high water and a rocky path. Use a forest-authorized route.

From Ahmedabad (Approx. 4 hours, 180 km):

By Car:

• By Car/Self-drive: Take NH64 towards Vadodara, then SH63 to Rajpipla, and head towards Dhirkhadi.
• Route: Ahmedabad → Vadodara → Rajpipla → Dhirkhadi → Zarwani
• Best Option: Self-drive or taxi for a scenic road trip.

By Bus:

• Take a GSRTC bus to Rajpipla or Kevadia from Ahmedabad.
• From Rajpipla, hire a local jeep or auto to Dhirkhadi.

By Train:

• Nearest station: Kevadiya (for Statue of Unity) or Vadodara
• From there, hire a cab or take a local vehicle to reach Zarwani.

• Waterfall Viewing & Trek: Hike across shallow streams and stones to reach the waterfall basin for photos and nature immersion. Short jungle hike (1–1.5 km) from the parking area.
• Eco Campsite Stay: Gujarat Tourism-run campsite offers cottages, tents, dorms, dining area, nature trails, campfires, and wildlife spotting towers (Machaans).
• Wildlife & Nature Walks: Spot sloth bears, hyenas, barking deer, monkeys in sanctuary. Participate in guided nature treks.
• Bird Watching & Photography: Ideal in early mornings.
• Picnic Area: Set near the stream; carry your own mat or eco gear.
• Nearby Attractions: Visit Shoolpaneshwar Temple, Gheer Khadi (river), and take guided treks through forest trails connecting villages.

• Entry to Waterfall Area: Free access, but visitors pay vehicle entry at Thawadia checkpost.
• Campsite booking is done via the Gujarat Eco Tourism Committee or the forest department.

Tip: Entry fees and permissions are collected at the Forest Check Post in Dhirkhadi. It’s best to visit during daylight and in a group if possible.

While there aren’t restaurants on-site, the eco-campsite offers hygienic meals (veg and basic non‑veg) prepared with local produce.
Nearby towns like Rajpipla or Kevadiya have modest local eateries—try Gujarati thali, simple dhabas, or Narmada fish fry dishes.

• Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite: Offers simple Gujarati thali on request (book in advance).

• Nearby Villages: Light snacks and chai.

• Rajpipla Town (28 km away): Full meals at local dhabas like:

• Jay Ambe Restaurant
• Rajwadi Kathiyawadi Bhojanalay

Carry dry snacks, fruits, and water. No plastic allowed — forest rules are strict.

Where to Stay: Zarwani Eco Campsite & Options Nearby

1. Zarwani Eco Campsite

• Run by Gujarat Forest Dept.
• Basic tents & cottage accommodation.
• Booking via the Official Eco Tourism Gujarat site

2. Hotels Near Kevadia or Rajpipla

• Statue of Unity Tent City (Luxury glamping)
• Hotel Unity Inn, Vrundavan Resort

💰 Budget Range:

• Eco Campsite: ₹800–₹1,200 per night (per person incl. meals)
• Private Hotels: ₹1,200–₹3,000

Day 1: Arrive via Vadodara or Kevadiya → reach campsite → orientation center visit → evening nature trail and campfire.
Day 2: Early trek to falls > nature walk or visit Shoolpaneshwar temple > guided wildlife trail. Afternoon picnic by the waterfall.
Day 3: Local village walk or short trek nearby; return to the main town or Statue of Unity.

• Statue of Unity & Kevadia (~12 km), the world’s tallest statue, with attractions like Vishwa Van and Jungle Safari.
• Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary: Dense forests, wildlife treks, riverside views.
• Gheer Khadi & Shoolpaneshwar Temple: Cultural and spiritual nearby visits.

• Wear sturdy shoes for trekking through streams and slippery rocks.
• Carry enough water, light snacks, and insect repellent.
• Avoid loud music or plastic; follow all instructions at the orientation centre.
• Best to trek in dry season; monsoon roads can get muddy and slippery.
• Respect wildlife; trek only in marked trails. No pets allowed.

• A less-crowded waterfall escape in Gujarat, ideal for solo travelers, nature-lovers, and campers.
• A true eco-tourism initiative, blending conservation and responsible travel.
• Close proximity to iconic Statue of Unity, making it an ideal add-on.
• Pristine sanctuary setting, offering flora, fauna, and a rare glimpse of wild species like hyenas and sloth bears.

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