Most people who visit the Statue of Unity in Kevadia see the crowds, the queues, and the world’s tallest statue against the Narmada skyline. Very few of them know that 12 to 17 kilometres away, inside the dense teak forests of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, a perennial waterfall drops into a clear natural pool in a rocky gorge where the only sounds are water, birds, and wind through the bamboo.
Zarwani Waterfall also called Zarvani Dhodh or Dhirkhadi Waterfall is Narmada district’s most rewarding natural escape and one of Gujarat’s genuinely underrated destinations. A short forest trek through stream crossings and sun-warmed boulders brings you to a clean white cascade that has been drawing picnickers, trekkers, and nature lovers from Vadodara and Surat for decades, long before the Statue of Unity put this region on the national map.
This TravelRoach guide covers everything the location, the trek experience, Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary’s remarkable biodiversity, the Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite, the Statue of Unity connection, how to reach, what to carry, safety tips, and all the nearby attractions that make a Narmada district trip genuinely worthwhile.
Zarwani Waterfall – Quick Information
| Detail | Information |
| Also Known As | Zarvani Dhodh, Dhirkhadi Waterfall, Dheerkhadi Dhodh |
| Location | Dhirkhadi Village, inside Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Narmada District, Gujarat |
| Distance from Statue of Unity (Kevadia) | ~12–17 km by road through the sanctuary |
| Distance from Rajpipla | ~28 km |
| Distance from Vadodara | ~90–96 km |
| Distance from Ahmedabad | ~200 km |
| Distance from Thawadia Checkpost | ~7 km (entry into sanctuary here) |
| Type | Perennial waterfall flows year-round; strongest July to November |
| Trek to Falls | ~300–500 metres walk from parking area; involves 2–3 shallow stream crossings |
| Entry | Sanctuary vehicle entry ticket at Thawadia checkpost required |
| Timings | Approx. 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (gate timings subject to seasonal changes) |
| Eco Campsite | Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite (Gujarat Forest Department) tents and cottages |
| Campsite Cost | ₹800–₹1,200 per person per night (including meals) |
| Best Season | July to November (monsoon + post-monsoon); October–December for best balance |
| Nearest Railway | Kevadiya Station (~15 km) or Vadodara Junction (~96 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Vadodara Airport (~97 km) |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 2–3 hours for waterfall only; overnight for full sanctuary experience |
About Zarwani Waterfall and Its Setting
The Waterfall and the Trek
Zarwani Waterfall sits in the heart of Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary a 607 sq km protected forest in Narmada district that straddles the border between Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. The falls are in Dhirkhadi village, and the road sign near the village marks the way clearly. From the parking area, a short walk of approximately 300 to 500 metres takes you through the forest and involves crossing two to three shallow streams along the way.
The stream crossings are part of the experience. You wade through ankle-to-knee deep water across flat rocks, often with the sound of the main falls growing louder with each step. This is why rubber slippers or waterproof sandals are strongly recommended you will definitely get your feet wet, and that is entirely the point. Carry an extra set of clothes.
The falls themselves are a clean white curtain of water dropping into a natural pool of flat, sun-warmed boulders. The scale is modest this is not a dramatic 100-metre cascade but the setting inside a protected forest, the clarity of the water, the cold spray at the edge of the pool, and the near-complete absence of commercial development make it genuinely special. Families picnic on the rocks. Photographers set up near the spray. Trekkers sit quietly and listen to the forest. A small waterfall at the final section is shallow enough for visitors to sit under during the cooler months.
Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary — The Forest Around the Falls
To understand Zarwani Waterfall properly, you have to understand the forest it sits in. Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary covers approximately 607 square kilometres of the Narmada district and is one of the most ecologically significant protected forests in Gujarat. The sanctuary spans undulating terrain along the Satpura ranges, drained by the Narmada, Terav, and multiple smaller rivers.
The vegetation is tropical moist deciduous similar in character to the Western Ghats forests of South Gujarat, but at the northern edge of their range. The sanctuary is unusual in that its flora and fauna show elements of both Western Ghats biodiversity and Himalayan foothills species a rare overlap that makes it particularly significant for conservation. Over 575 species of fauna have been recorded within the sanctuary.
The forest is primarily teak with bamboo, riverine forest along the Narmada and its tributaries, dry bamboo brakes, and pockets of moist teak forest in the hillier sections. The drive through the sanctuary on the way to Zarwani is itself an attraction the road is narrow, tree-lined, and passes through tribal hamlets and forest clearings with occasional wildlife sightings.
Also Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries in Gujarat
The Statue of Unity Connection
Since the inauguration of the Statue of Unity at Kevadia in 2018 and its rapid rise as one of India’s most visited tourist destinations, the Narmada district has seen a significant increase in tourist traffic. Zarwani Waterfall is one of the natural complements to a Statue of Unity visit close enough (12 to 17 km) to be combined in the same day, yet completely different in character. Where the Statue of Unity is monumental, modern, and managed, Zarwani is wild, quiet, and natural. Most visitors who combine both leave feeling they have experienced the full breadth of what Narmada district has to offer.
The Gujarat Forest Department has also incorporated Zarwani into the ‘Khalwani to Zarvani Eco Tourism Bus Tour’ a guided tour package that runs from the Statue of Unity area and ends at the waterfall as its final stop, making it easily accessible for visitors without private vehicles.
Wildlife in Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary – What You Might Spot
The road and forest trails to and around Zarwani Waterfall pass through active wildlife habitat. While the falls area itself is visited by people throughout the day and animals tend to be less visible near the pool, the drive through the sanctuary and early morning walks near the campsite can yield excellent sightings.
| Species | Sighting Chance | Notes |
| Sloth Bear | Medium | Present in the sanctuary — one of the key species here. Best chance at dusk near fruiting trees. |
| Leopard | Low–Elusive | Resident but nocturnal and shy. Tracks occasionally seen on forest paths near the waterfall trail. |
| Barking Deer (Muntjac) | Medium | Considered rare and near-threatened. The sanctuary is one of the better places in Gujarat to encounter them. |
| Sambar Deer | Medium | Found near water sources and riverine forest close to the falls. |
| Chital (Spotted Deer) | Medium–High | Often seen in forest clearings on the drive through the sanctuary. |
| Wild Boar | High | Very common throughout the sanctuary frequently crosses the road at dawn and dusk. |
| Hyena | Low | Present in the sanctuary; nocturnal, rarely seen during daytime visits. |
| Rhesus Macaque | High | Troops of rhesus macaques are commonly seen near the waterfall trail and picnic areas. |
| Common Langur | High | Frequently seen in trees throughout the sanctuary, including near the falls. |
| Indian Python | Low | Occasional sightings near rocky sections and riverine areas. Do not approach. |
| Pangolin | Very Rare | Present in the sanctuary one of India’s most elusive nocturnal mammals. |
| Flying Squirrel | Low–Medium | Occasionally spotted gliding between trees at dusk near the campsite. |
| Wild Dogs (Dholes) | Low | Present in the sanctuary; rare sightings on forest roads in early morning. |
Birds – Migratory and Resident Species
Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a rich bird community that includes migratory species from both the Himalayas and the Western Ghats a rare combination resulting from the sanctuary’s position at the ecological boundary of both ranges.
- Crested Serpent Eagle – Commonly heard and seen soaring above the forest canopy
- Oriental Pied Hornbill and Grey Hornbill – Spotted in tall teak trees near the falls
- Malabar Trogon – Occasional sightings in denser sections of the forest
- Indian Pitta – Migratory visitor in winter; brightly coloured and secretive
- Woodpecker species – Multiple species active throughout the teak forest
- Kingfisher species – Common along the stream leading to the waterfall
- Grey Jungle Fowl – Heard calling from dense undergrowth in early morning
- Various raptors – Including Honey Buzzard, Changeable Hawk-Eagle, and Crested Hawk-Eagle
- Migratory waterfowl – Present along the Narmada River section of the sanctuary
Things to Do at Zarwani Waterfall and Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary
1. Trek to the Waterfall
The primary experience at Zarwani is the short forest trek from the parking area to the falls. The walk involves crossing two to three shallow streams and navigating rocky terrain through shaded teak forest. It takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes each way at an easy pace. The multiple stream crossings are part of the fun wear water-friendly footwear and expect to get your feet wet. The sound of the falls grows gradually louder as you approach, building anticipation until the white cascade appears around the final rocky bend.
2. Picnic by the Natural Pool
The flat boulders at the base of Zarwani Waterfall are one of the most pleasant picnic settings in Narmada district. Families spread mats, open tiffins, and spend hours by the water while children splash in the shallows. The cool mist from the falls and the sound of the forest all around create an atmosphere that is deeply restorative. There are no food stalls near the waterfall itself carry all your food and water from Rajpipla or Kevadia. No plastic permitted inside the sanctuary.
3. Light Water Play in the Shallows
A smaller, gentler waterfall section near the main falls is where visitors typically wade and sit during the cooler months (October to February). The water is cold, clear, and refreshing. Avoid entering the main plunge pool, especially during and just after the monsoon when water levels can be unpredictable and currents strong. Always assess the water conditions before wading and do not enter if there is any foam, unusual colour, or strong current visible.
4. Wildlife Safari – Self-Drive Through the Sanctuary
The drive from Thawadia checkpost to Dhirkhadi village approximately 7 km through the protected forest is itself an excellent wildlife experience. Drive slowly and quietly, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Wild boar, spotted deer, macaque troops, and occasionally barking deer are seen along this road. The Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite also operates guided wildlife trails through the surrounding forest arrange in advance with the campsite management.
5. Birdwatching
Early morning birdwatching near the stream and forest trails around Zarwani is excellent. Arrive at the sanctuary gate by 7 to 8 AM and proceed slowly towards the falls. The stream corridor has kingfishers, wagtails, and sandpipers. The forest above has hornbills, woodpeckers, and on lucky days, the Indian Pitta or Malabar Trogon. Carry binoculars and the Merlin Bird ID app — both will significantly enhance the experience.
6. Overnight Stay at Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite
Staying overnight at the Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite is the best way to experience the full character of Zarwani. Sunsets over the teak forest, campfire evenings under a clear Narmada sky, wildlife spotting from the Machaan (elevated observation tower), and an early morning walk to the falls before any day visitors arrive these are the moments that make an overnight stay at Zarwani genuinely memorable. The campsite is managed by the Gujarat Forest Department and offers tents, cottages, dorm accommodation, dining, and guided activities.
7. Visit the Shoolpaneshwar Mahadev Temple
The Shoolpaneshwar Mahadev Temple is a revered Shiva shrine situated within the sanctuary along the Narmada River. The temple was relocated when the Sardar Sarovar Dam was built and is now surrounded by the forest and the river. The most atmospheric way to visit is by boat from the Narmada ghat at Garudeswar or Bharuch the two-hour boat ride through the forest-lined river is one of the most unusual temple journeys in Gujarat. The combination of forest, river, and a deeply ancient Shiva shrine in one experience is extraordinary.
8. Khalwani to Zarvani Eco Tourism Bus Tour
If you are visiting without a private vehicle or if you want to experience the full circuit as a guided experience the Gujarat Forest Department’s ‘Khalwani to Zarvani Eco Tourism Bus Tour’ departs from the Statue of Unity circuit and ends at Zarwani as its final destination. This is an official government eco-tourism package that includes transport, forest access, and a guided experience. Enquire at the Statue of Unity ticket/tour desk for current schedules and booking.
Also Read: Top Hill Stations Near Gujarat
Best Time to Visit Zarwani Waterfall
July to September – Monsoon (Maximum Flow, Lush Green)
This is when Zarwani is at its most dramatic. The waterfall runs at full force, the forest is intensely, brilliantly green, and the air is cool and mist-laden. The stream crossings on the way to the falls are deeper and more exhilarating during this season. However, be very cautious about water levels and currents do not wade into the plunge pool during peak monsoon. Roads to the sanctuary can also become slippery after heavy rain. This season is spectacular but requires more careful planning.
October to December -Best Overall (Highly Recommended)
Post-monsoon is the sweet spot for most visitors. The waterfall is still running strong, the forest is deep green and beautiful, temperatures have dropped to a comfortable range, and road and trail conditions are better than during the peak rains. This is the best window for both the waterfall experience and wildlife sightings. October and November are particularly good crowds are manageable on weekdays and the natural beauty is at its absolute peak.
November to February – Winter (Best for Trekking and Camping)
Winter brings the most comfortable trekking conditions. Temperatures in Narmada district drop to a pleasant cool range (around 15 to 25°C). The waterfall flow is reduced compared to monsoon but still visible and peaceful. Wildlife sightings tend to increase as animals become more active in the cooler air. The campfire evenings at Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite are at their most enjoyable. Best for families, birdwatchers, and those doing a multi-day stay.
March to June — Summer (Avoid)
Summer heat in Narmada district can be intense, and the forest trek to the waterfall becomes uncomfortable. The waterfall flow reduces significantly by April and May. Not recommended unless you specifically want to see the dry-season forest character or are visiting as part of a Statue of Unity trip and want to add a quick stop.
How to Reach Zarwani Waterfall
| From | Distance | Mode | Approx. Time |
| Statue of Unity (Kevadia) | ~12–17 km | Car / Sanctuary eco-bus tour | 20–30 mins |
| Rajpipla | ~28 km | Car / Taxi | 45–55 mins |
| Vadodara | ~90–96 km | Car / Taxi | 1.5–2 hours |
| Ahmedabad | ~200 km | Car / Bus via Vadodara | 3.5–4 hours |
| Surat | ~125 km | Car via NH48 + Bharuch | 2.5–3 hours |
| Bharuch | ~55 km | Car | 1.5 hours |
| Kevadiya Railway Station | ~15 km | Train + Taxi / Eco Bus | — |
| Vadodara Airport | ~97 km | Flight + Taxi | ~2 hours |
Step-by-Step Road Directions
The clearest way to reach Zarwani Waterfall by road from the Statue of Unity / Kevadia area:
- From Kevadia, drive towards Gora Village and pass the Ekta Nursery
- Proceed towards the Cactus Garden area
- After approximately 2.5 km from the Cactus Garden turn, turn right towards Dhirkhadi
- Drive a further 6 km to reach Dhirkhadi Village and the waterfall site
- Stop at the Thawadia checkpost (7 km before the falls from the sanctuary entrance) to collect your entry ticket
From Vadodara by Road
From Vadodara, take the Vadodara–Bharuch Highway towards Bharuch. From Bharuch, follow signs towards Rajpipla on the Bharuch–Rajpipla road. From Rajpipla, continue 28 km towards Kevadia Colony / Narmada Dam site. Before reaching Kevadia, follow the Thawadia checkpost route into the sanctuary. Google Maps navigation to ‘Zarwani Waterfall’ or ‘Dhirkhadi, Narmada’ is generally accurate.
By Train
The nearest stations are Kevadiya (approximately 15 km from the falls) a station specifically built for Statue of Unity visitors on the Vadodara–Kevadiya railway line. From Kevadiya station, hire a local taxi or use the eco-tourism bus service to Zarwani. Vadodara Junction (~96 km) is the larger hub with connections from Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and other major cities.
Eco Tourism Bus from Statue of Unity
The ‘Khalwani to Zarvani Eco Tourism Bus Tour’ is an official government-run circuit that includes transport from the Statue of Unity area to Zarwani Waterfall as its final destination. This is ideal for visitors without private vehicles. Enquire at the Statue of Unity tourism desk for current timings, pricing, and booking requirements.
Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite – Staying Overnight at Zarwani
The Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite is the primary accommodation option at Zarwani Waterfall, run by the Gujarat Forest Department as part of the state’s eco-tourism initiative. It sits within the sanctuary close to the waterfall area and offers a genuine forest immersion experience.
Also Read: Discovering Gujarat: A Journey Through India’s Vibrant State
What the Campsite Offers
- Tents and cottages – accommodation for 1 to 3-night stays
- Dorm accommodation – available for budget travellers and groups
- Dining – Gujarati thali and simple meals prepared with local produce. Non-veg available on special request. Pre-book meals in advance.
- Orientation centre – briefing on the sanctuary’s ecology, wildlife, and safety rules before you explore
- Guided nature trails – through the surrounding forest
- Wildlife spotting towers (Machaans) – elevated platforms for observing animals from a safe height
- Campfire evenings – the forest at night around a campfire, with occasional wildlife sounds, is one of Narmada district’s most memorable experiences
- No plastic inside – strict forest rules; carry reusable bottles and bags
Campsite Cost: Approximately ₹800 to ₹1,200 per person per night including meals. Rates may vary by accommodation type and season. Book through the Gujarat Tourism website (gujarattourism.com) or by calling the Forest Department.
Note: Always confirm current booking availability, rates, and campsite operational status before your visit. The campsite was being upgraded in recent years and current facilities may have changed.
Food and Supplies Near Zarwani Waterfall
There are no food stalls, shops, or restaurants at the waterfall site itself. Plan your food before entering the sanctuary.
- Carry your own food for the waterfall picnic – pack dry snacks, fruits, sandwiches, and water from Kevadia or Rajpipla.
- Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite – meals available if you book in advance. Gujarati thali. The campsite can prepare packed lunches on request for day visitors too.
- Rajpipla town (~28 km) – the best option for a proper meal before or after your visit. Several local dhabas and restaurants serve Gujarati thali and simple food.
- Kevadia / Statue of Unity area (~12–17 km) – multiple food courts and restaurants near the statue complex serve snacks, meals, and refreshments.
- No plastic allowed inside the sanctuary – carry food in cloth bags or biodegradable containers.
Safety Tips for Zarwani Waterfall
Zarwani Waterfall is within a protected forest sanctuary and the trek involves stream crossings and rocky terrain. Follow these safety guidelines:
- Do NOT swim in the main plunge pool during monsoon currents and water levels near the main falls can be dangerously strong from July to September. Enjoy the shallow stream sections only.
- Check water quality before entering some visitors have reported foam or discolouration near certain stream sections, possibly from upstream runoff. If the water looks or smells unusual, do not enter.
- Wear non-slip footwear the rocks at and around the falls are slippery when wet. Rubber flip-flops or water shoes are essential. Bare feet on wet rocks are risky.
- The terrain is rocky and uneven watch your step on the trail, especially when carrying children or crossing streams.
- Do NOT litter inside the sanctuary strict no-plastic zone. Carry all waste back out with you.
- Do not disturb or approach wildlife the sanctuary has leopards, sloth bears, pythons, and other wildlife. If you encounter any animal, remain calm, do not approach, and move away slowly.
- Go in a group do not walk the forest trail alone. If doing an early morning or late afternoon visit, inform the campsite management.
- Monsoon road caution the road from Thawadia checkpost to Dhirkhadi can become slippery in heavy rain. Drive carefully and check conditions before entering.
Travel Tips for Zarwani Waterfall
- Combine with the Statue of Unity – the two attractions are only 12 to 17 km apart. Plan the Statue of Unity in the morning and Zarwani Waterfall in the afternoon, or vice versa.
- Visit on a weekday – weekends and school holidays draw large family crowds from Vadodara and Surat. Weekday visits are significantly more peaceful and better for photography.
- Carry extra clothes – stream crossings are inevitable. A dry set of clothes and a towel make a huge difference to your comfort after the waterfall.
- Footwear matters – rubber slippers, water shoes, or old sandals you don’t mind soaking. Avoid good leather shoes or open-toed flat sandals that offer no grip.
- Arrive early – aim to reach the Thawadia checkpost by 9 AM to 9:30 AM for the best forest light, fewer crowds, and maximum wildlife activity on the drive in.
- Cash only near the sanctuary – card payments are not accepted at the checkpost or campsite. Carry sufficient rupees.
- Book the eco campsite in advance – especially for weekend or holiday stays, the Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite books up. Contact Gujarat Tourism or the Forest Department at least a week before.
- Carry a fully charged phone with offline Google Maps downloaded- mobile signal can be weak inside the sanctuary.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Zarwani Waterfall
- Statue of Unity, Kevadia ~12–17 km | The world’s tallest statue at 182 metres, dedicated to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. View the Narmada River from the observation deck at 153 metres. The Statue of Unity complex includes the Valley of Flowers, Arogya Van, Butterfly Garden, Cactus Garden, and Sardar Patel Zoological Park.
- Sardar Sarovar Dam Adjacent to Kevadia | The Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River is one of India’s largest dam projects. The viewpoints around the dam especially at sunset are stunning.
- Shoolpaneshwar Mahadev Temple Inside the sanctuary | A revered forest Shiva temple on the banks of the Narmada. Reached by a 2-hour boat ride from the Narmada ghat. One of the most atmospheric temple experiences in Gujarat.
- Ninai Waterfall ~50 km from Zarwani | Another waterfall in the Narmada district, smaller than Zarwani but set in greener surroundings. Worth combining into a 2-day Narmada waterfall trip.
- Gheer Khadi Near the sanctuary | A scenic river gorge area within the sanctuary, accessible on guided forest walks from the campsite. Beautiful rock formations and forest scenery.
- Rajpipla Town ~28 km | A historic town on the Narmada banks. Once the capital of the Rajpipla princely state. A quick meal stop and a chance to see a quieter, more local side of Narmada district.
- Samot-Malsamot Campsite In the sanctuary area | An elevated campsite with valley viewpoints facing the Narmada basin. Both sunrise and sunset are spectacular. Food is arranged by local villagers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Zarwani Waterfall is located inside Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary in the Narmada district of Gujarat. The falls are in Dhirkhadi village, approximately 28 km from Rajpipla and 12 to 17 km from the Statue of Unity at Kevadia. To reach the waterfall, you enter the sanctuary through the Thawadia checkpost approximately 7 km before the falls. The full site name on Google Maps is listed as ‘Zarwani Falls’ or ‘Dhirkhadi, Narmada’.
The best overall time is October to December the post-monsoon period when the waterfall is running strong, the forest is lushly green, weather is comfortable, and trail and road conditions are good. For the most powerful waterfall experience, visit during the monsoon (July to September) but exercise caution near the main plunge pool. November to February is best for trekking, camping, and wildlife sightings in comfortable winter weather. Avoid April to June as summer heat makes the forest trek unpleasant and the waterfall flow is significantly reduced.
There is no separate entry fee specifically for Zarwani Waterfall. However, to access the falls you must pass through the Thawadia checkpost, where a sanctuary vehicle entry ticket is charged. This is the standard Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary entry fee. Once inside, access to the waterfall area itself is free. The Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite if you choose to stay overnight charges approximately ₹800 to ₹1,200 per person per night including meals. Always confirm current checkpost fees before visiting.
From Vadodara, Zarwani Waterfall is approximately 90 to 96 km away about 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Drive towards Bharuch on the Vadodara–Bharuch highway, then take the road towards Rajpipla. From Rajpipla, continue 28 km towards Kevadia Colony and follow the Thawadia checkpost route into the sanctuary. Alternatively, take a train from Vadodara to Kevadiya Station (approximately 15 km from the falls) and then hire a taxi. A private vehicle is strongly recommended as public buses do not run directly to the waterfall.
Light wading in the shallow sections of the stream near the falls is possible and popular during the cooler months (October to February). However, swimming in the main plunge pool is not recommended, especially during and just after the monsoon (July to September) when currents are strong and water levels unpredictable. Always assess water conditions carefully before entering. If there is any foam, unusual colour, or strong current, do not enter the water. The rocks around the falls are slippery wear non-slip rubber footwear.
Yes, Zarwani is a popular family destination. The trek to the falls is short (300 to 500 metres), manageable for most children, and the stream crossings are fun for kids in the right conditions. However, young children must be closely supervised at all times near the water. The rocks can be slippery, and the main waterfall area is not safe for unsupervised children during monsoon season. Outside of monsoon (October to February), the site is accessible and enjoyable for families. Carry appropriate footwear and extra clothing for children.
Absolutely this is one of the most popular combinations in Narmada district. The Statue of Unity at Kevadia is approximately 12 to 17 km from Zarwani Waterfall, making a same-day visit very practical. Plan the Statue of Unity for the morning (it opens early and gets crowded by midday) and Zarwani Waterfall for the afternoon. Alternatively, use the Gujarat Forest Department’s ‘Khalwani to Zarvani Eco Tourism Bus Tour’ an official guided package that starts at the Statue of Unity circuit and ends at Zarwani as its final stop. Enquire at the Statue of Unity tour desk for current schedules.
Final Thoughts
Gujarat is full of surprises and Zarwani Waterfall is one of the most pleasant ones. It sits close enough to a global tourist attraction to be easily reachable, but it feels genuinely removed from that world. The stream crossings, the cold spray on your face at the pool, the macaques watching from a nearby tree, the forest driving in from every direction these are the details that stay with you.
If you are already heading to the Statue of Unity, do not skip the extra drive into the sanctuary. If you are looking for a monsoon or post-monsoon weekend escape from Vadodara or Surat, Zarwani and the Dhirkhadi Eco Campsite make for a near-perfect two days.
