Valsad: Wilson Hill, a popular hill station in South Gujarat, is set to undergo a major transformation as the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL) has launched a nearly ₹10-crore eco-tourism development project aimed at boosting tourism while preserving the area’s natural beauty.

The project, estimated at ₹9.99 crore excluding GST, is expected to be completed within 16 months and will introduce a range of modern visitor amenities, adventure activities, and nature-based attractions. TCGL has invited bids for the execution of the project.

Visitor Information Centre Planned

A key feature of the development is the construction of a modern Visitor Information Centre, which will serve as the main administrative and tourist assistance hub.

The facility will include a spacious reception hall, an administrative cabin, a powder room, and a large shaded seating area where visitors can relax and obtain information about the destination. The centre will be strategically located near viewing areas, allowing tourists to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Food Court and Public Facilities

To cater to the growing influx of tourists, the project includes the development of a dedicated food court comprising 10 individual shops. Each outlet will have its own kitchen and service area, offering visitors a variety of food options.

The food court will be built around a central gathering space with landscaped lawns, creating a recreational area for families and groups.

The project also includes modern sanitation facilities, featuring separate toilet blocks for men and women, specially designed toilets for persons with disabilities, accessibility ramps, and dedicated drinking water facilities.

Adventure Tourism to Be a Key Attraction

The Wilson Hill project places significant emphasis on adventure tourism and outdoor recreation.

Several new attractions have been planned, including:

• A dedicated adventure zone
• Children’s play area
• Camping and tent zones
• Jungle trails through natural forest areas
• Bird-watching zones
• Scenic viewpoint gazebos

These facilities are expected to attract nature lovers, trekkers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts from across Gujarat and neighbouring states.

Walking Trails and Nature Experiences

Among the standout features of the project is a specially designed walking trail constructed on a gabion wall. This elevated pathway will offer visitors a unique trekking experience while blending seamlessly with the natural terrain.

The development plan also includes:

• A 2-metre-wide jungle trail
• A 2.5-metre-wide walking trail
• Multiple forest viewpoints
• Bird observation areas
• Landscaped open spaces

The trails are intended to promote eco-friendly tourism while allowing visitors to explore Wilson Hill’s rich biodiversity.

Road and Infrastructure Upgrades

To improve accessibility within the tourist destination, several infrastructure upgrades have been proposed.

These include:

• A 6-metre-wide main road
• A 4-metre-wide service road
• Bridge construction works
• Protective and safety structures
• Site development and landscaping works

The improvements are expected to enhance visitor mobility and overall safety across the site.

Expanded Parking Facilities

Recognising Wilson Hill’s growing popularity among tourists, planners have proposed extensive parking facilities.

The new parking area will accommodate:

• 64 four-wheelers
• 70 two-wheelers
• Dedicated bus parking

The upgraded parking infrastructure is expected to help reduce congestion during weekends and peak tourist seasons.

Boost to Eco-Tourism and Local Economy

The project is expected to strengthen Gujarat’s eco-tourism sector while generating economic opportunities for local communities through tourism-related activities, hospitality services, and employment.

By combining modern infrastructure with nature-based experiences, the government aims to position Wilson Hill as one of Gujarat’s leading eco-tourism destinations.

Once completed, the upgraded destination is expected to attract more domestic and interstate tourists, further enhancing Valsad district’s tourism profile. DeshGujarat