gujarat places of interest Archives - Explore with Ecokats

Places to visit near Ahmedabad for One Day

Ketki Gadre — Sun, 19 Nov 2023 18:21:00 +0000

Wondering about the places to visit near Ahmedabad in one day? There are many options for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, architecture admirer if you are looking for tourist places near Ahmedabad.

While there are many things to do in Ahmedabad, visitors have the option of choosing places to visit near Ahmedabad. With options such as picnic spot in Ahmedabad, resorts offering staycation and even waterfalls near Ahmedabad, the options are endless.

Have more than a day? Check this: Weekend destinations from Ahmedabad.

PLACES TO VISIT NEAR AHMEDABAD | ONE DAY TRIPS FROM AHMEDABAD

There are tourist places near Ahmedabad that are both ancient and modern, and attract visitors of all ages. The places include temples, hill stations, nature trails and iconic monuments. Whether you are looking for a one day picnic near Ahmedabad for couples or a one-day adventure trip near Ahmedabad, here are some re-energising break ideas for a perfect road trip from Ahmedabad.

Polo Forest, Gujarat

Polo Forest is one of the best places to visit near Ahmedabad, especially in monsoon!

Polo is an ancient historical site in Gujarat and perfect for a one day trip from Ahmedabad. Polo forest in monsoon is a sensuous sight to behold with its picturesque forests overlooking the misty mountains. A trip to Polo Forest Gujarat is perfect for small treks, nature enthusiasts, architectural lovers, photographers and painters. It is a lovely place for a family picnic as there are many activities amidst the lush nature like cycling in forest, trekking, riverside walking, taking a dip in the fresh waterfalls and many others.

A Jain temple in the middle of Polo forest is visited by a lot of people as it a heritage site. Earlier, the temple was a pilgrimage for the Jains but it was destroyed by the Mughals and what remains now are the ruins, which still look beautiful. The temple is said to be over 1500 years old with intricately carved deities, sculptures and motifs from everyday life.

Walk amidst the deciduous forest to reach the Vanaj dam built over Harnav river. Spend some time by this tranquil river and to reconnect with nature.

Read in detail: Polo Forest Gujarat

Driving distance from Ahmedabad to Polo Forest: 150 km (3.5 hours)

Temple ruins in Polo forest

Harnav Dam, Polo Forest

Modhera Sun Temple

If architecture is something that intrigues you then head north towards Mehsana to reach Modhera Sun Temple which is about 100 km from Ahmedabad. Modhera Sun temple is totally worthy for a one day trip from Ahmedabad as it is architecturally mind-blowing. Appreciate the intricate carvings in the temple which is a depiction of the Sun and its unity with earth’s elements – air, water, soil & space. Be sure to check out the extremely beautiful and Instagram worthy Surya Kund.

Read in Detail: Modhera Sun Temple

Driving distance from Ahmedabad to Modhera: 100 km (approx 2.5 hours)

Rani-ki-Vav-Patan

This trip to Modhera can be combined with Patan which is further 43 km from Modhera. Patan is popular for 2 things: Patola Sarees and Rani ki Vav. Rani ki Vav is a stepwell situated in Patan and is the finest and the largest stepwell in Gujarat. It is built using Maru-Gurjara architecture style, reflecting complex technique and details. The stepwell is divided into seven levels of stairs with over 200 sculptural panels and 500 sculptures which are ornamented on sidewalls. Due to its beautifully adorned sculptures, Rani ki Vav is listed as one of the 38 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.

Patan also has the ancient heritage os Patola saree weaving. A Patola museum is set up on the way to Rani ki Vav called Patan Patola Heritage. It exhibits all the types of equipment, materials and techniques used for weaving the double Ikat. get fascinated with the demonstration and bowled over by the finished products. Known to be one of the most expensive handlooms, you will be tempted to have a piece for yourself. Splurge away if you can.

Read in Detail: Rani-ki-Vav, Patan

Entrance of Rani Vav

Statue of Unity

Statue of Unity from Ahmedabad is becoming one of the most popular day trips. Statue of Unity is the world’s tallest statue and it is the statue of Shri Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, built as a memorial to the contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai in the country’s freedom struggle and the stellar role he played in unifying the country into a nation.

The statue is situated on an island near the Sardar Sarovar Dam. The area around the statue has an exhibition gallery, viewing gallery, the valley of flowers, memorial, audiovisual gallery, Sardar Sarovar Dam, River rafting and Jungle safari. With so many activities present, a day trip is funfilled with loads of activities. This is one of the best places to visit near Ahmedabad.

Read in Detail: One day trip from Ahmedabad to Statue of Unity.

Driving Distance from Ahmedabad to Statue of Unity: 200 km (approx. 4.5 hours)

Statue of Unity | Best Places to visit Ahmedabad

Nalsarovar

Nalsarovar is the answer for all birdwatchers in the state. Already a favourite amongst professional photographers, Nalsarovar is also looked upon as a family picnic spot. It is the only Ramsar Wetland site in the state and is extremely important for the ecology around. Although Nalsarovar is closed in the monsoon, enthusiasts can visit the periphery areas to photograph the indigenous species. If you hire a guide for a day, you can also visit the plains nearby which is a habitat of many other animals and birds.

Nalsarovar has documented close to 200 species of birds during winters, many of which are migratory. Watching flamingos here is a joy and should not be missed.

Also Read: Birdwatching destinations around Ahmedabad

Driving Distance from Ahmedabad to Nalsarovar: 62 km (1.5 hours)

Nalsarovar lake - Tourist places near Ahmedabad for birdwatching

Zanzari Waterfalls

Wondering if there waterfalls near Ahmedabad? Zanzari waterfall is the answer.

Zanzari waterfall also known as Jhanjhari Waterfall is a waterfall on the Vatrak River, Kheda region. A small hike on the rocks leads to the main fall which has a fall of 25 meters. It is a good picnic spot to spend a day with family or friends. Zanzari waterfall is fuller during monsoon with the rain waters and has negligible water during other seasons. However, it is still a good option for one day trip from Ahmedabad.

Driving Distance from Ahmedabad to Zanzari waterfall: 75 km (approx. 2 hours)

Zanzari waterfalls near Ahmedabad

Lothal

Lothal is a 4,500-year-old town which was an important port on the Indian subcontinent during the Harappan Civilization. It was discovered in 1954, post-independence and is an important archaeological site due to its scientific layout and a massive dockyard that facilitated trade with other civilizations of the time.

The major attractions in Lothal are the vast ruins of the ancient city which includes ancient dockyard, the acropolis, the lower town, the bead factory, the warehouses, and the drainage system.

A museum houses the objects found from the ancient site along with information. The museum also displays seals from Bahrain, terracotta figures from Sumeria, and objects from Egypt.

Distance from Ahmedabad to Lothal: 85 km (approx. 2 hours)

Lothal - One day trip from Ahmedabad

Blackbuck National Park, Velavadar

The golden grasslands of Velavadar are the habitat of the threatened species – Indian Blackbuck. In order to conserve their dwindling numbers, Velavadar has a dedicated area called the Blackbuck National Park. Over 5000 blackbucks freely roam in these grasslands. It is an absolute delight to watch them sprint around. If you are a wildlife enthusiast and really craving for those wildlife photoshoots, fret not and head straight to Velavadar from Ahmedabad. The park is closed in monsoon but you will find ample blackbucks from the highway and the shutter of your camera would be happy to fire away.

You read about my experience and a detailed guide here: Blackbuck National Park

Distance from Ahmedabad to Velavadar: 150 km (4 hours)

Blackbucks at the blackbuck national park

Orsang Camp Resort, Chanod

Orsang camp is a favourite among corporates for one-day tour packages from Ahmedabad. With a huge area, Orsang offers many activities that are good enough to engage kids, friends on a picnic, team-building for office colleagues or just a family staycation.

Situated on the Orsang river, there are adventure activities such as zip-lining across the river and kayaking. Some activities on the site include BURMA Bridge, Tyre Walk, Monkey Bridge, Walk-in Air-On Tyre, ZigZag Commando Net and Swing Bridge among others.

Distance from Ahmedabad to Orsang Resort: 164 km (4 hours)

Orsang Resort, Gujarat for one day trips from Ahmedabad

Vadnagar, Gujarat

Vadnagar, famous as Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s hometown, is an ancient heritage town. Although it does not feature on the tourist’s circuit, it is one of the best places in Gujarat for architecture lovers. A perfect showcase of Solanki dynasty carvings can be seen at Kirti Toran (two intricately carved columns made in the 12th century, that support an arch 40 feet in height).

Talking about carvings, the Hateshwar Mahadev temple, a 17th-century temple is one of the most beautiful, intricately carved temples. Other than this there is a lake, Jain temple, step-well and garden that deserve a visit in Vadnagar.

Read in Detail: Vadnagar, Gujarat

Distance from Ahmedabad to Vadnagar: 100 km (2.5 hours)

Kirti Toran Vadnagar Gujarat

Bakor Nature Camp

Bakor has emerged as a perfect camping getaway in Gujarat. While it is ideal to spend a night here in the wilderness, a day trip to Bakor is possible and is very rewarding. Bakor is a small village in Mahisagar district on the foothills of the Aravalli Range. It is blessed with abundant trees, waterfalls, good birdlife, historical places and tribal culture. Experiencing the outdoors in Gujarat could never have been this rewarding.

If you choose Bakor one day picnic then places to visit in Bakor include Kadana dam, Adadari waterfall, Kaleshwari temple and Dodavanta lake. If you choose Bakor Nature camp then be ready to be bowled with the picturesque bounty of nature. There are options for trekking, jungle trail, birdwatching and campfire at night.

Distance from Ahmedabad to Bakore: 150 km (3.5 hours)

SUSTAINABLE TIPS FOR PLACES TO VISIT IN AHMEDABAD

Do not harm any ancient heritage structures by carving or writing on it.
Do not dispose of garbage in tourist areas such as heritage sites, water bodies or national parks. Dispose only in designated trash bins.
Wear comfortable shoes and dress modestly.

Do you like the options that I have given here? Do you know of any more places that could be part of the list? Or have you already visited the places mentioned? Leave a comment to let me know.

Pin this post!

The post Places to visit near Ahmedabad for One Day appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.

Drench in the History and Architecture of Modhera Sun Temple

Ketki Gadre — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 15:23:00 +0000

Of all the amazing places to visit in Gujarat, Modhera Sun Temple is always on the top of the Gujarat itinerary. With exquisite architecture and the newly inaugurated 3D Light and Sound show at Modhera Sun Temple, it is why everyone must pay their respects here.

Visiting is the Modhera Sun Temple is one of my favourite places to visit near Ahmedabad for one day. Read why Ahmedabad to Modhera Sun Temple is an easy and must-do trip.

India is famous for its temples; their architecture, their cultural importance and how they existed through centuries declaring them as UNESCO Heritage Sites. Indian temples worship a lot of things and one of them is the Sun! Modhera hosts one of the Sun temples in India. The sun has been so important to the village that now a 6 MW solar plant, coupled with a 15 MWh battery energy storage system, is installed to meet the town’s day and night electricity requirements. Modhera is India’s first solar village.

Sun God or Surya Dev: Why is the Sun worshipped?

Sun god is worshipped across cultures and for many centuries. Most ancient cultures worshipped the sun in and of itself, regularly bowing before it as the most potent force in the universe, to which they owed gratitude, obedience and adoration. The Egyptians respect the deity Ra (‘sun’), depicted in their sculpture as a falcon-headed god with a solar disk over his head. The Aztecs enchanted sacred poetry to Tonatiuh, the sun god, and the ancient Celts expressed piety to Grannus, god both of the sun and wisdom. In the Native American cultures, such as the Iroquois and Plains peoples, the sun was recognized as a life-giving force. Many of the Plains tribes still perform a Sun Dance each. In MesoAmerican cultures, the sun was associated with kingship, and many rulers claimed divine rights by way of their direct descent from the sun.

In India, according to Hindu mythology, Hindus refer to the sun as unlimited energy storage. Hence in olden times, sun temples were constructed to revere the sun god. Over 10 temples are present in various parts of India for sun salutation. Having been to Konark Sun temple already, I eagerly wanted to visit Modhera Sun Temple.

Modhera Sun Temple

History of Modhera Sun Temple, Gujarat

The Sun temple of Modhera was built by Rishabh Bhimdev – I of the Solanki dynasty. The Solankis were great architects and their creations are a testament to the bygone era that still stands strong. The Solankis were considered to be the descendants of the Sun God and the Modhera Surya Mandir was constructed as an offering to the Sun God. The temple was designed in such a way that the first rays of the sun illuminate the sanctum during the equinox.

The Surya idol was robbed by Mahmud Ghazni who took the original idol that was carved in gold. And then later the temple was destroyed by Allauddin Khilji. Due to this, no ceremonial worships or offerings take place in the present day. However, the temple walls still maintain a grandeur that is enough to mesmerize visitors.

My visit to Sun Temple Modhera

I knew I had to take a guided tour to know about the architecture in detail. As soon as I entered the complex, I was surrounded by guides who offered themselves to educate me with all the information about the temple. After a good deal, I caved in.

Architecture of Modhera Sun Temple

The guide informed us all about the Modhera Sun Temple. The temple is divided into three parts namely Surya Kund (stepwell), Sabha Mandap (assembly hall) and Guda Mandap (sanctum sanctorum). The main temple faces east so that the rays of the sunlit the idol carved in the main shrine. The temple is a depiction of the sun and its unity with earth’s elements – air, water, soil & space.

The temple is made using lime mortar and is a classic example of art on the wall. The temple follows the principles of Vastu Shilpa. The temple structure is designed in such a way that it resembles a flowering lotus.

We started our exploration of the complex with Surya Kund.

Modhera Sun Temple is a popular spot for photography, painting pre-wedding photoshoots

Surya Kund

Surya Kund – is the perfect example of geometry from the 11th century. Surya Kund is a stepwell which is 4 stories below the ground. This water reservoir’s rectangular design and innumerable steps leading to the water base reminded me of the Panna Meena ka Kund, Jaipur. There are three main shrines on the three sides of the kund dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva’s avatar Natraja. The kund is adorned with 108 miniature temples carved in the corners and in between the steps that are dedicated to gods and demigods.

During its glory when the temple deity was present, devotees were required to perform ablutions before entering the temple.

The guide requested us to spend time at the kund after the entire visit was over.

Surya kund Modhera

Sabha Mandap

The pillared hall welcomes the visitors on entering the main temple. Also known as the hall of religious gathering, it is open from all sides and has 52 intricately carved pillars that represent 52 weeks in a year. The carvings are scenes from important events from Ramayana, Mahabharat and Krishna Leela.

Between the Sabha Mandap and the Sanctum Sanctorum is another hall with pillars and arches. The walls depict 12 aspects of Sun God in each month of the year.

Pillars in Sabha Mandap Modhera temple

Sanctum Sanctorum

By this time I was dumbstruck to imagine an engineer who constructed this wonder in the year 1026 and executed it with such skilled craftsmanship.

Upon entering the Sanctum Sanctorum, the guide informed us that the Lotus flower is considered the Sun God’s flower. This is why the temple design is based on the inverted lotus-base plinth. It was designed in such a way that the sun rays of the rising and setting sun on equinox days (20th March and 21st September) fell on the bejewelled pure gold idol.

Arches Architecture of Modhera Sun Temple

Exterior Wall Sculptures

The exterior walls of the temple are extensively carved with idols symbolizing the gods Indra, Varuna and Vishwakarma. There are many erotic carvings on the walls which symbolize the human cycle of birth and death.

Sculptures at Modhera Surya Mandir

Modhera Dance Festival

Historically known as the Uttarardh Mahotsav based on the planetary and astronomical configuration of the Sun. The festival also marks the rotation of the sun around the earth when winters come to an end and summers start.

The state government organizes an annual Modhera Dance festival that includes thrilling dance performances and musical programmes overlooking the temple. The Modhera Dance Festival is celebrated in the third week of January after the festival of Uttarayan. It is conducted to celebrate the art, dance form, and culture of India and is a 3 day fair.

The temple is decked up in colourful lights for the festival.

3D Light and Sound show at Modhera Sun Temple

The Indian Prime Minister recently inaugurated the 3D Light and Sound show at Modhera Temple Light Show wherein the entire temple complex including the Surya Kund is illuminated with lights. The history and architecture are explained through 3D lights and sound systems. The Modhera Light and Sound show will run every day between 7 pm to 7.30 pm.

Modhera sun temple light show

Modhera Surya Mandir timing

Modhera Sun Temple is open from 8 am to 6 pm.

Sun Temple Modhera entry fee

INR 40 for Indian Nationals and INR 600 for Foreign Nationals. Photography is included in this fee but tripods and drones are not allowed. Prior permission needs to be obtained for drone shooting.

Best time to visit Modhera Sun Temple

Mornings and evenings are the best time to visit the sun temple as the weather is very pleasant.

Month wise, Gujarat is extremely hot during summers with temperatures rising up to 45 degrees. Monsoon is humid making it better than summer but still uncomfortable to walk. Winters are the best season to visit Gujarat.

How to reach Modhera Surya Mandir

By road

Ahmedabad to Modhera is well connected through Mahesana. From Ahmedabad, you can get a GSRTC bus from the Bus stand. The best option is to reach the Adalaj crossroad and hire a bus. If you don’t get a direct bus, you can take the bus to Mahesana (Frequency – 15 – 20 mins). From Mahesana, you can hire a Jeep, and Rickshaw to reach Modhera (30 km). Same for Modhera to Ahmedabad.

By train

The nearest railway station to Modhera is Mehsana. From there, visitors can hire a cab or bud till Modhera.

By flight

The nearest airport to Modhera is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, at a distance of about 94 kilometres. Ahmedabad has good connectivity to many domestic and international airports. From Ahmedabad, visitors can travel by road to Modhera, either by hiring a cab or by bus operated by GSRTC (Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation).

Hotels near Modhera Sun Temple

Since most people prefer a one day trip from Ahmedabad, the accommodation options in Modhera are fewer. Patan is a bigger town and hence has a few mid-range hotels in case you want to extend your stay.

Hotel The Grand Piano

The Grand Raveta

Modhera Sun Temple at Dusk

Places to visit near Modhera

Patan

Patan to Modhera is a common travel circuit. Situated only 35 km away from each other it can easily be combined for a visit together.Patan is beautiful offering many places to see. There are temples, such as Panchasara Parshvanath Jain Derasar, the Kapur Mehta Na Pado and Mahavir Swami Derasar. Patan is also famous for Rani-ki-Vav, the stepwell featured on Rs. 100 currency note. Paan is also famous for the heritage Patola saree. One can witness the silk weaving of Patola saree in Patan Patola Heritage Museum.

Vadnagar

Vadnagar is 65 km away and offers many heritage places. The fanous Kirti Toran of Vadnagar,

Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Mehta ni Vav Sharmishtha Lake Vadnagar and Tana Riri Garden are some of the places to visit in Vadnagar. Read more here: Heritage places in Vadnagar

Sidhpur

Sidhpur is a humble little town that has a powerful place in history and mythology. It was here on the banks of the Saraswati River that the great warrior Parasurama performed the last rites of his mother, making Sidhpur a sacred pilgrimage among Hindu devotees honoring their maternal ancestors. Sidhpur has two protected national monuments namely: Ruins of Rudra Mahalaya Temple and the Jami Masjid that attract tourists here.

Vohravad

Built in a distinctive architectural style, the Vohrawad are rows of narrow, deep mansions, about three to four storeys high, along the main street. These houses belong to the Vohra community, a Shia Muslim trading community from Gujaratin. These houses are peculiar as they have a strong European character with gabled roofs, ornate balconies, columns, decorated doors and are painted in pastel shades.

Modhera Surya Mandir Lotus like structure

FAQs

Is a combined visit possible to Modhera and Patan?

Yes. Most visitors combine a visit to Modhera and Patan. It is a perfect one day trip from Ahmedabad.

Which is the deity in the Modhera Sun Temple?

The Modhera Sun Temple is dedicated to Sun God. But since the idol was robbed there is no deity in the temple at present. as the name suggests is dedicated to the Sun God.

The Sun temple in Modhera was built during the reign of the Solanki king, Bhima I, however, there is no record of who the architect of the temple was.

Sustainable travel tips for Modhera Surya Mandir

Being an ancient heritage site which is already dwindling with age, respect the structures by not sitting on them. Sit outside the temple in the garden.
Do not harm the structures by carving or writing on it
Do not enter places which are closed off, there’s a reason why they are closed.
Throw your garbage in the dustbins located at the entrance of each temple.

Read about other posts in Gujarat

Disclaimer – This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running.

Pin this post!

The post Drench in the History and Architecture of Modhera Sun Temple appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.

Polo Forest Gujarat | Perfect day trip from Ahmedabad

Ketki Gadre — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 11:27:23 +0000

Polo Forest Gujarat is known for the heritage Jain temples. This forest in Gujarat is popular for camping and trekking and most popular visited during monsoon.

The first thing that comes to my mind when someone asks about day trips near Ahmedabad is Polo Forest Gujarat. This Polo Forest guide will give a glimpse of what is up for grabs for visitors of all ages.

About Polo Forest Gujarat

The name ‘Polo’ is derived from the word pol, which is a Rajasthani word for ‘gate’.

The name quite literally translates to a gateway between the states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, which it rightly is. Polo Forest has 4 sculptured gates made of local sedimentary rocks in each direction.

The forest is situated on the foothills of the lush Aravalli Mountain range which is home to many tree species, birds and animals. The forest contains several Hindu and Jain temples from the 15th century.

Polo Forest in Gujarat is one of the ancient historical sites and is popular for its unique yet picturesque deciduous surroundings. In monsoon, it completely changes its nature and transforms into misty heaven with lush green surroundings and overflowing rivers and streams. Chances are that you may even enjoy a shower in the seasonal waterfalls.

I feel it can easily be turned into a wildlife park given the diversity it has as well as the expanse on which it is spread – Polo Forest is spread across 400 square km area. There are recorded sightings of Sloth bears and Leopards in the area.

Activities in Polo Forest Gujarat

Polo Forest Idar is a haven for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts and those who want to enjoy pristine nature.

Adventure activities in Polo Forest

Polo Forest has many adventure activities and trails to keep the visitors busy. Nature trails, cycling in forest, trekking, riverside walking, wildlife photography, etc. some of the activities one can get busy in Polo Forest. There are many hiking trails available ranging from 3kms to 14 km known as the Mango, Kalal, and Bhim treks, respectively.

All of these activities are possible if you go with a local guide or with a tour operator as the safety gears required for the activities are exclusive with them. There is also a chance of getting lost in the forest as there are no visible trails marked.

I was there only for a day trip so skipped adventure activities but I would love to try them the next time.

Trekking in Harnav Dam

Also known as Vanaj Dam, it is one of the most popular attractions in Polo. Walk amongst the drenched tree cover to reach the Harnav Dam. A nature trail along the Harnav river takes one to the reservoir of the river. Visitors can explore the dam site which is nicely developed and maintained in Polo forest area.

Harnav Dam, Polo Forest

Birdwatching in Polo Forest

Forest residents which are quite easily spotted are flying squirrels, Indian grey hornbill, sloth bears and many birds. Polo is known to house 275 species of birds, 30 species of mammals, and 32 species of reptiles.

Blame it on my bad luck or bad timing, I could not spot any birds that day. Maybe if I had gone deeper in the forest, I might have caught a glimpse of some wildlife!

Temples in Polo Forest

The Jain temple of Polo Forest is believed to have given refuge to the then Maharaja, Maharana Pratap during his battle against the Mughals. This place was earlier a pilgrimage for the Jains and Shivadharmi people of the area.

However the temples were destroyed by the Mughals and what remains are some spectacular ruins of a fort, now a heritage site. The temples are said to be over 1500 years old. On a closer look at the designs, they are lavishly crafted with incredible details of deities, sculptures and motifs from everyday life.

The architecture of the ruins definitely reminded me of Angkor Wat temples.

Interesting carvings on the temples

Heavily ornamented carvings inside the temple

Another stunning temple worth visiting is the Sarneshwar temple. The 15th-century Sarneshwar temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a three-storied temple with fortified walls. The carvings on exterior walls include deities, social life scenes; bands of humans, elephants, swans and plants.

Sarneshwar temple Polo Forest Gujarat

Where to stay in Polo Forest

If you are wondering about Polo Forest resorts, there are many options.

If visitors just want to enjoy the raw nature instead of going around to places, they can simply relax at the luxurious and air-conditioned tented accommodation and enjoy the views of Aravali range in the middle of a forest. The tents of Polo Tent city are luxurious, eco-friendly yet comfortable. They are operated by the Gujarat State Forest Department and need prior booking through the district forest department office Himmatnagar. Polo campsite offers both AC / Non AC accommodations which are available on a twin sharing basis.

There are few resorts, camps as well as hotels in Polo Forest where one can book a stay. There are luxury as well as budget options available in Polo Forest. Fern Sattva Resort and MWS Polo Hideaway are one of the best.

Food at Vijaynagar

There are tea and Maggi stalls on the main road but no restaurants. Lunch and dinner are generally served by the tour operators/camp owners. In case you are on a one day trip, it is best to carry snacks with you.

Tea and Maggi stalls around Polo

How to reach Polo Forest

By road

Polo forest is located at a distance of 150 km from Ahmedabad, 70 km from Himmatnagar Gujarat and 120 km from Udaipur, Rajasthan. GSRTC buses are frequently available to reach Idar via bus. From Idar to Vijaynagar, jeeps are frequent. However, it is ideal to travel by hired car as the distance between places to see in Polo is a lot.

By train

The closest railway station is Himmatnagar if travelling within Gujarat. If travelling from outside of Gujarat, hire a car from Ahmedabad.

By flight

Ahmedabad and Udaipur are the nearest airports. Hire a car from there to reach Polo forest.

Best time to visit Polo Forest

As it is surrounded by mountains and forest, this place starts getting pleasant from monsoon season and is lush green between the months of September and December especially if you want to trek here. But the rich wildlife here can be experienced at any time of the year. I would prefer planning after monsoon season to winter and will recommend avoiding in summer.

Places to visit near Polo Forest

Rani-ki-Vav Patan

The intricately carved stepwell in Patan is called Rani-ki-Vav. Located 3 hours away from Polo, this is a good trip worth planning. Read about it here: Rani-ki-Vav, Patan

Vadnagar, Gujarat

The heritage town of Vadnagar is one of the treasure trove in Gujarat. Read about it here: Vadnagar, Gujarat

Modhera Sun Temple

Modhera Sun Temple is one of the most exquisitely-sculpted temples in India, that is a prominent shrine dedicated to Hindu Sun God. Modhera is 3 hours away from Polo Forest. Read about it here: Modhera Sun Temple

Idar

Idar is a lovely town which boasts of a fort on a hilltop, breathtaking views of the Aravallis from the top of Idaariyo Gadh and a lake in the town.

Idar Gadh near Polo

Sustainable tips for Polo Forest Gujarat

Be sensitive towards forest wildlife. Keep your eyes and ears open to sounds and movement while walking/cycling. Keep safe distance while photographing them.
Wear camouflage colours which will easily blend with the forest – shades of green, brown and grey.
Do not talk loudly or make unnecessary noises in the forest.
Avoid wearing perfumes or body spray in the forest.
Carry water and food but do not dispose of plastic or leftover food in the forest. Keep it in your bag or vehicle and dispose of safely once you return to the hotel.
Do not feed anything to wild animals.

Read More Gujarat Blogs here:

I hope this blog on Polo Forest Gujarat helps you to plan a trip. Have you been there before? Did you like it? Tell me in the comments below.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. It means it adds no extra cost to you if you book through the link but I get a referral bonus which helps me earn a little to keep this website up and running. Read my Privacy Policy for more.

Pin this article!

The post Polo Forest Gujarat | Perfect day trip from Ahmedabad appeared first on Explore with Ecokats.