Gandhinagar, Oct 29: A new rainforest attraction in Gujarat will bring plant species native to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the Western Ghats and the Himalayas into one landscaped facility, as Ekta Nagar expands its tourism offerings with a ₹9.49-crore project spread across 47,000 square metres.
Located near the new Gora Bridge and Vagadiya Checkpost in Narmada district, the facility will feature a 220-metre-long glass-deck skywalk as its main attraction. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the project during his Gujarat visit on October 30–31.
The facility aims to introduce visitors to rainforest ecosystems and the diversity of evergreen vegetation across different Indian regions. Its landscape will incorporate features designed to represent the different layers of a rainforest, while an information centre will provide educational material on biodiversity and forest conservation.
The skywalk will allow visitors to view the landscaped greenery from above. Other features include a waterfall measuring between five and eight metres in height, a circular pond and connecting bridges.
The entrance gate, measuring 20 feet high and 40 feet wide, uses natural stone. Walking trails made from Narmada stone, traditional brick-and-lime elements and rows of trees will form part of the landscaped area.
The information centre will use maps, illustrations, displays and QR codes to explain rainforest ecology, biodiversity and conservation. The project is intended to provide educational opportunities for students, researchers and nature enthusiasts while encouraging awareness of forest ecosystems.
A separate children’s play area will include a rock-climbing wall, slides of different heights, swings and tree balconies connected by stairways.
The development adds to the attractions at Ekta Nagar, which is home to the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue. The rainforest project also aims to promote ecotourism and support local economic activity.
By bringing vegetation associated with geographically distinct parts of India into one location, the facility seeks to combine tourism with environmental education and opportunities to learn about biodiversity and conservation.
