Pariyej Lake Wetland near Ahmedabad

Pariyej Lake, also known as Pariej Wetland (પરીએજ અથવા પરીયેજ), is a peaceful natural retreat located about 55 km from Ahmedabad and almost the same distance from Vadodara. This shallow-water lake is officially recognised as a wetland and is a haven for birdlife. Situated near Matar village on the Kheda–Khambhat road, Pariyej Lake offers a unique experience where you can spot birds even while driving along the road. The fertile surrounding farmlands and the lake’s shallow waters create an ideal environment for nesting and breeding. As a result, a wide variety of birds can be seen here, including the elegant Sarus cranes. For nature lovers and birdwatchers, Pariyej Lake is truly a hidden gem. 🐦✨

What to do at Pariyej

• Bird watching very closely. Especially Sarus Cranes
• Road Trip
• Nature Enjoy – Especially the Farm and Village life
• Orientation Center
• Lake Watching (Boating is not allowed), Watch Tower
• Beautiful Road to reach

Pariyej Wetland has 2 parts. 1 Part is the Ecotourism, and another part isthe open grassland or shallow water ponds. The interesting part is the shallow water area which comes on the left side while visiting from Kheda/Matar. This part is not declared as the Bird sanctuary, it means you can see the birds without any hurdles or restrictions. You can see birds with binoculars as well on the left side of the road.

Interesting Story about Sarus Cranes

Sarus cranes are commonly found here in open farmlands, usually seen in pairs. In this area, it is easy to spot Sarus couples. Locally, in Gujarati, they are known as Sarus Beldi (સારસ બેલડી).

One of the most fascinating things about Sarus cranes is their lifelong bond. They are almost always seen in pairs, gracefully moving together through the open farmlands. Local folklore says that when a Sarus crane male or female passes away, its partner is unable to live without it. This deep emotional connection has made the Sarus crane a powerful symbol of eternal love and devotion.

Because of this belief, the region around Kheda holds special meaning for many locals. Couples who are newly married or about to begin their journey together often visit this area to observe a Sarus pair and pray for a long, loving, and inseparable life together. Watching these elegant birds in their natural habitat is not just a wildlife experience. It’s a reminder of pure, unconditional companionship.

Another fascinating aspect of the Sarus crane’s life is its unique breeding habit. To nest, the Sarus needs a large space right in the middle of farmlands, along with a steady supply of food. Naturally, this often affected farming activities. In the past, farmers would destroy the nests as soon as they appeared to protect their crops. As a result, the Sarus crane population began to decline.

Noticing this, the Gujarat Forest Department (Van Vibhag) stepped in with a thoughtful conservation plan. Farmers were offered compensation of ₹5,000 for every Sarus nest they allowed on their land. This simple yet effective initiative changed everything. Farmers began welcoming the Sarus cranes and protecting their nests instead of destroying them. Today, the Sarus population in the region has recovered well, creating a beautiful example of coexistence. Where both farmers and Sarus cranes thrive together in harmony.

Road Trip

The road to reach Pariyej is beautiful and passes through villages. If you love road trip and enjoy bike ride, this road is the best destination for you. On the way, you can see the Villages, Birds, Green Trees and many other interesting things. Here are some photos which I’ve captured during my visit.

Bird Watching

While you come from the Kheda/Matar, you can notice the birds on the left side of the road in all seasons. In the monsoon water level is very high. So in the rest of the season, you can view the bird from the Road.

Here, you can see the birds roaming here and there without any restricted area. Following birds, you can notice during the visit – Purple Murhen, Cormonent, Painted Stroke, Sarus Crane, Coot, Pelican, Flamingoes, Garganey, Egret, Dusky Redshank and many others.

Watchtower and Interpretation Center

When you move forward a little bit, you will get the entry gate of the Pariej Interpretation centre and Pariej Lake. The interpretation centre has the chart of the Birds which appear in this area and also the rest area.

Next to the centre, there is a lake entry and watchtower. If you have high binoculars or a good range camera then you can see many birds from the watchtower. Also, it has a small garden for relaxing. Near the centre, there are many birds on the trees too. You can do birdwatching here too.

Pariyej Lake

Pariej Main lake in shallow water lake which is best for the migratory and local birds. Many birds do breed here and stay forever. Boating or any kind of commercial activities are not allowed here which help the bird to stay here and provided the best atmosphere.

If you have good binoculars then only you can see the birds in the Marshland of the lake.

Fees

There are no fees to see the orientation centre or bird watching tower. It’s free of cost. You can see more birds from the road.

Best time to visit

In the monsoon, there is water on the road so it is not advisable to visit in Monsoon. For the rest of the season, you can go. Especially October to March is the best time to visit here.

Evening and Morning is the best time to visit.

Tips

• Going on bike is more fun so if you want bike ride, must go here.
• The road to reach here is very beautiful and passing through villages. You can enter the farms of the villagers with their permission and take photos.
• Please bring binoculars and high range camera to capture beautiful picture.

Where Pariyej is located?

It is just 55 km from Ahmedabad. You can come here by Bike, Activa or Car from Ahmedabad, Kheda, Anand and Vadodara. It is on the road of Kheda – Matar – Tarapur – Khambhat. Its 10 km before the famous Tarapur Chowkdi (Crossroad). Which is the junction of South Gujarat and Saurashtra. Here is the map

https://goo.gl/maps/VrqnBLzQ4XaAd2sRA

You can cover Neja, Khambhat, Kaneval lake and other places on this route. Please see the video for details.

Nearby places to visit around Pariyej lake or Pariej lake

• Mahalaxmi Jain Tirth (18 Kms)
• Khambhat (34 Kms)
• Sikotar mata mandir and beach (40 kms)
• Neja The Tree Landscaping (30 Kms)
• Kaneval Lake (24 Kms)
• Lothal (60 Kms)

Neja Photogenic Road or Neja Tourist Place

Frequently Asked Questions

Thanks for Reading
Last Updated on 31st December 2025
Created on 8th December 2021

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