Padamdungari, Surat Overview

Situated at a distance of about 30 kms from the town of Vyara, and 8 kms from the village of Unnai near Surat in Gujarat, Padamdungari is a beautiful campsite based amidst the Sahyadris by the river Ambika. Blessed with an undulating landscape, the site boasts of several trekking trails, a dense forest close by, and a rich wildlife. The place is known for its river side huts, ideal camping environment and scenic surroundings. It is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Surat.

Padamdungari consists of cosy cottages replete with facilities like interpretation centres, fully equipped kitchens, dining spaces, and amphitheatres etc. The campsite also includes activities like bonfire, tubing, boating, rafting, rowing, wildlife viewing and maachans etc. It is In addition to that, there are several places nearby that you can visit, that include Chand-surya, Unai Hot Springs, Ghusmaai temples, timber workshop, Waghai botanical gardens, Vansda National Park and Shabri Dham etc.

Facilities at Padamdungari

Fully functioning Cafeteria or Restaurant that serves amazing food.
Amphitheatre for larger gatherings and group activities.
Dormitory Accommodation for solo travellers and also for groups of people.
Huts and separate rooms, both AC and non- AC.
Tents with proper clean toilets and bathrooms.
Orientation Centre to give you an overview about the property and campsite.
Rescue Centre to treat the injured wildlife- birds and animals. You can also visit here and tend to them if you want to.
Separate kitchens and dining spaces.
Machaans made out of bamboo and wood to watch the wildlife and enjoy the view from above.

Places to Visit near Padamdungari

Uni Mata Temple
Uni Mata Temple is the most popular attraction near Padamdungari. It is a revered Hindu temple that is known for its hot water springs. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy water will not only cure you of your sins but also of any diseases since it has medicinal properties.
Chand Surya Temple
Chand Surya Temple is another one of the holy Hindu temples that is situated on the banks of River Ambika. Other than regular devotees, the temple is also visited by tourists because of its pristine location and gorgeous setting.
Waghai Botanical Garden
Waghai Botanical Garden is a lush green flourishing gardens only 27 kms from Padamdungari. It has quaint trails to guide you across and you will come across some of the most exotic plants here. There are also well-groomed flower beds to lure the visitors.
Gira Falls
Gira Falls is just at a distance of 30 kms from Padamdungari and is a popular picnic spot in the area. Also known as Gira Dhodh, the beautiful cascading waterfalls appears even more alluring during the monsoons. It is mostly frequented by nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

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Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park is another green national park, just at a distance of 35 kms from the campsite. Here you can find all sorts of local and exotic plants, flourishing wildlife and even reptiles like cobra, python, kraits and more.

Tips

The campsite uses electricity that is generated from solar power. It is advisable to use it wisely.
Do not litter the area. Make sure you dispose off waste properly.
Smoking is prohibited. Half lit cigarette buds might lead to fires.
No flash photography is allowed, especially during night time since it might distract the wildlife.
Do not carry any speakers or music system allowed as that might disturb the quiet and peace of the ecosystem.
Do not venture out too far in the forests without a guide.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Padamdungari is between the months of October to March i.e. winter and spring, when the entire ecosystem is alive and abloom.

How to Reach

The nearest airport to Padamdungari is in Surat which is around 120 kms away from here. The nearest railway station, however, is in Waghai, which is just 4 kms away from the campsite. Alternatively, if you are driving down to the spot, you can take the National Highway 8 which is close to Padamdungari. There are also regular buses plying from the neighbouring cities i.e. from Surat, Bilimora, Vansad