Sustainable Tourism Destination Anchoring Religious, Cultural & Recreational Tourism in the Region

The Tourism department of the Gujarat state in India has delineated the area around Dharoi Dam on the Sabarmati River in Mehsana district to be developed as a tourist destination which would anchor other significant tourism sites & ecological recreation spots within a 100km radius in North Gujarat. It is also planned to add to the leisure & recreational theme in the regional circuit, to offer a more diverse palette of tourism options, to enhance the area’s connectivity, & catalyze a tourism-led economy in the region.

The design team integrated insights from all stakeholders to create a comprehensive program that maximizes the natural potential of the dam’s green landscapes, which become vibrant during the monsoon, as well as the picturesque coves & lagoons along the water’s edge. Ten zones have been identified to offer diverse experiences, each enriched with carefully curated activities & amenities.

The scope includes essential infrastructure planning such as water supply, drainage, waste management, sewage treatment, & an extensive road network. Additional features include a national highway bridge, river embankments with promenades, a water retention barrage, shuttle bus services, & dedicated cycle tracks. Prior to planning, extensive studies on the area’s hydrology, geomorphology, & ecology ensured a sensitive & sustainable approach to development.

River Embankments with Range of Public Spaces:
The embankments are designed with soft & green edges, enhancing natural features & ecological appeal of the area. Planned as walkable, active & interactive zones, promenades include walking & cycling paths, leisure spaces, play areas, green meadows & a rich riparian zone. The design develops an engaging interface– visual & physical–between promenades & the river.

Identified Zones for Leisure, Adventure & Recreation :
The plan leverages the natural beauty & terrain to create distinct, activity-based zones. At its heart lies Zone 1, featuring a botanical garden inspired by “Panchtatva: A Symbiosis of Culture & Nature,” highlighting the five elements—water, earth, wind, sun, & sky—across 130 acres of diverse flora & fauna. The journey to the botanical garden begins at a visitor center on the river’s right bank, crossing to the left bank.

Zone 2 is envisioned as a commercial & hospitality hub, with High Street shopping & hotels. Zone 3 extends the botanical theme with meadows, riparian landscapes, & a grand convention center. Zones 4 & 5 focus on outdoor adventures with caravan parks, theme parks, campgrounds, water sports, & jetties. Zone 6 offers unique accommodations, including floating cottages & luxury resorts on land.

Additional zones are equipped with premium facilities such as a solar park, seaplane terminal, & an internationally inspired Polo Club & Resort, all designed to meet global infrastructure standards.