Wadhwana Wetland

Wadhwana Wetland is a man-made reservoir near Wadhwana village in Dabhoi taluka, Vadodara district, Gujarat. Constructed in 1909-1910 by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III for irrigation, it was designated a Ramsar site in 2021. The shallow wetland attracts more than 200 bird species, including large winter congregations of migratory waterbirds, making it a prominent birdwatching destination in central Gujarat and is managed for irrigation and biodiversity conservation.

Visitors can expect a large, shallow open-water reservoir surrounded by agricultural fields with earthen embankments, watchtowers and viewing platforms for bird observation. The landscape is flat and open with scattered trees and bunds. In winter, the wetland hosts large flocks of migratory ducks, geese, cranes and other waterbirds. Facilities are basic and focused on nature observation, photography and sightseeing from designated points along the periphery.

Constructed in 1909-1910 during the reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III of Baroda State as an irrigation reservoir by damming seasonal streams to support agriculture in Dabhoi area. The reservoir later gained ecological importance due to its rich avifauna and was designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2021.

Valued locally as an important irrigation water source supporting surrounding farmlands and as a seasonal habitat for migratory birds that attracts nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers to the region.