polo forest trip

Polo forest

The polo forest where the sun rises with the million rays and shatters his warmth, experience it. Where birds sing and spread their charm with their innocent voice, feel it. Where the wind blows and tickles the branches of the tree and makes them laugh, join it. Where mother nature tells the stories of our countless in the earth and its unforgettable history, feel it. Welcome to the lap of mother nature, welcome to the polo forest and welcome to Polo Safari.

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• Instruction
• Hotel check-in
• Spent time in the swimming pool
• Visit Heritage monuments that were built between 11th to 15th CE
• Dinner with campfire and DJ
• Trekking in the lush forest, visit eco-point, bird watching and understand the medicinal flora of forest with a professional guide.

Places to Visit

• Lakhenana Jain Dera
• Shiv Panchayatan Mandir
• Lord parshwanath Temple
• Sharneshwar Temple
• Forest Visit
• Transportation (For Special Request we can Arrange transportation also)
• Any entry fees, Camera fees, local transportation
• Anything not listed above
• Food at Resort Only ( Lunch , Dinner, Breakfast)
• Swimming pool
• All Sightseeing
• Dj Camp Fire
• 1 Night stay in Hotel or resort (As per requirement)

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The Ultimate Guide To Polo Forest: All That You Need To Know!

Priyanshu mishra.

Jun 27, 2023

Travel Guides

Vijaynagar Forest, popularly known as Polo Forest, is a dry mixed deciduous forest near Abhapur village in Vijaynagar Taluka, Sabarkantha district, Gujarat, India. It is located at the foothills of the famous Aravali range and near the bank of the Harnav River. it is estimated that the total acreage of the forest is around 400 square kilometers or 99,000 acres.

The forest is mostly dry forest; however, after monsoon, it turns lush. Therefore, the queries like ‘polo forest weather ‘ or ‘polo forest temperature ‘ can be answered easily answered from the above information. Sources claim that the forest houses around ‘450 species of medicinal plants, around 275 of birds, 30 of mammals, 9 species of fishes, and 32 (species) of reptiles. Amongst those statistics, it is believed that there are leopards, hyenas, common civet, jungle cats, etc. Hence, Polo Forest boasts a diverse range of animals.

Historically, it is believed that the Parihar kings of Idar established a town somewhere around the 10th Century AD. However, the town is now abandoned, yet the remains of the civilization can still be found there. The name of the forest is believed to have come from the word ‘Pol’, which means gate in Marwari language.

Every year, the Indian Government organizes a festival named Polo Festival. This is one of the most prominent attractions of the forest, and every year, thousands of tourists flock to the area to witness such a marvel. Therefore, we have compiled an ultimate guide to help you plan a trip to the iconic Polo Forest.

How To Reach?   

Ahmedabad and Udaipur are the two nearest cities to Polo Forest. The Polo Forest distance from Ahmedabad is around 160 Km, and from Udaipur is 120 Km. Therefore, given the overall distance going by road would be the best option for you and your friends or family.

You can hire four-wheelers from either of the nearest metro city, which would take you to your destination. This can cost you up to somewhere around ₹5000, depending upon the kind of car or facilities you can avail. Apps like Gozocabs, CabBazar, etc. offer attractive prices, starting from just ₹3000.

However, do not worry if you are on a budget, you can take busses as well. There are regular buses from Ahmedabad and Udaipur that can take you to Vijaynagar. From Vijayanagar, you can take a shuttle to Polo Forest.

However, we would ask you to be prepared as the buses can be unreliable at times. During certain seasons the roads can be undrivable; as a result, GSRTC might divert the route or cancel the busses for the time being.

Accommodation And Food?   

When it comes to food and the accommodation side of things, Polo Forest offers limited options, and it is understandable why. You do not have to pay any money as Polo Forest entry fees, the only money you will be paying is for food and lodging.

One of the best options in this category is the Gujarat state forest department’s campsite. For booking, you need to contact Himmatnagar forest department in advance. You have to mail the department with the dates, number of people, and types of rooms you want to avail. The confirmation depends on availability.

Other than that, there are other private ‘Polo Forest hotels’ that you can check out. However, these accommodations are way more expensive than the aforementioned option.

In Polo Forest, the food that you would find is mostly from dhabas and these accommodations. Therefore, if you look for exotic cuisines, then you will be sorely disappointed since the food will be basic.

Activities To Do And Places To Visit.   

Unlike the food and lodging, Polo Forest Gujrat boasts a diverse range of activities and places to visit. Surrounded by the beautiful Harnav River, the forest boasts a range of activities, from trekking to visiting old temples that would keep you exploring for days if that is what you want.

Shiv Shakti Temple:   

Also known as the Sun Temple, it is one of the more popular destinations you can visit in the Polo Forest. The temple is estimated to have been built around the 15th century and lies in complete ruin. Still, the three-dimensional figurines are rare and therefore is an interesting spot to visit.

Vanaj Dam:   

One of the central spots for tourists, the dam is located quite near some villages which are still untouched by modernity. Therefore, if you are looking to experience a more rustic way of living, definitely check those villages out.

Rappelling:   

If you are looking to test your physical prowess, then this is the activity you should go for. One of the iconic activities of this forest, this can truly make you feel like an adventurer.

Caving :  

Do you want to explore cave formations that have formed over millions of years with your friends or families? If yes, then this is your jam. With a range of naturally formed caves to explore, it makes for a thrilling and fun activity to get into.

Polo Festival:   

Every year Government of Gujrat celebrates Polo Festival by organizing well-planned travel events which include adventure activities. There is a Polo camp city that is set up where travelers can stay and enjoy the festival.

Traveler reviews:   

“Good for one day Picnic from Ahmedabad. Following is the itinerary I followed – Left Ahmedabad @ 6 .30 AM and reached @ 9 .15 AM. You will find an auto at the entrance. They will charge INR 400 for the complete sightseeing of Dam, River, and check dam. I asked for drop @ Dam only which costed INR 100. Dam is a good picturesque place with 10 Min walk in forest. After Dam went to the river side by Auto ( INR 50 ). Had Aloo Paratha @ riverside which was very good. Hired a local guide ( INR 300 ) for treking. It is not a long but a enjouable trek. He gave us 2 options one was a bit difficult and other was a stright road. We choose the first one. After trek we walked to check dam and sun temple ( Closed due to construction) . Left Pollo @ 12.30 Noon. They have Motor gliding which we dint opt for.” – Aniket L, posted on Tripadvisor.

“Best Place for one day picnic. I like trekking, so we trekked there too and climbed the mountain. or forest. Many people don’t know there is a small trek one can do with the help of a guide. The atmosphere there, the sights there, The thing it’s Incredible.”- Ranjeet Chauhan, posted on Tripadvisor.

Final Thought.   

Polo Forest is an iconic destination if you want a more unconventional experience while traveling. Located in remote parts of Gujrat, it is famous for providing a unique collection of activities that is sure to keep even jaded travelers happy and satisfied. With a whole range of activities that are sure to cater to individuals of different age groups.

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Polo Forest Tourism

• Polo Forest
• Sarneshwar Temple
• Ancient Shiva Temple
• Jain Temple Ruins
• Lakhena Temple
• Polo Jain Nagri
• Harnav River
• Shiv Temple at Sadevant Savli Ashram
• Vijaynagar Forest
• View all 10 places
• Things to do
• Best time to visit
• How to Reach
• Tourist Map
• within 25kms
• within 50kms
• within 100kms
• within 150kms
• within 200kms
• within 250kms
• within 300kms
• within 500kms

Explore Places to Visit Near Polo Forest by Type

Other Suggested Reads for Polo Forest

• Places To Visit in Polo Forest
• Things to do in Polo Forest
• How to Reach Polo Forest
• Best time to Visit in Polo Forest
• Polo Forest Tourism History
• Food in Polo Forest
• FAQS about Polo Forest
• Polo Forest Tourist Map

Polo Forest Gujarat | Perfect day trip from Ahmedabad

Last Updated on July 20, 2022 by admin

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.

Table of Contents

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.

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.

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.

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.

How to reach Polo Forest

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.

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

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 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.

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:

• Places to visit in Jamnagar
• Things to do in Vadodara
• Is Bhuj worth visiting?
• Girnar Ropeway – Asia’s longest ropeway
• Mandvi, Gujarat

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.

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Ketki Gadre

Ketki is an environmental consultant and a sustainable travel blogger, who loves nature, wildlife and heritage. She enjoys bringing places to life through her informative blogs to inspire readers to travel sustainably and become responsible travellers.

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Sounds like the Polo Forest is a really fun place for those who love the outdoors. I bet a hike around the Harnav Dam is quite beautiful. But what really looks cool to me are the temples. I love the carvings you captured and to think that there once was a thriving kingdom there in the middle of the forest! Very cool!

It would be very cool to see wildlife in or around the temple. I have gotten very much into birding during this pandemic and would love to see unique birds. I also am in love with sloths.

Polo Forest looks just beautiful. I can’t believe your luck with not seeing a single bird though! I’d really like to have a go at staying in one of the tents as part of the whole experience. Thanks for putting all of the info together in one easy place.

I agree with the parallel you made with Angkor Wat, the architecture of the temples is quite reminiscent… Polo Forest has a lot going for it, with its mix of culture and adventure. I am always amazed with all the shades of green you can find in those forests…

Oooh! I love to find out about places where I can combine seeing beautiful buildings with a good hike – this place sounds perfect for that!

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Polo Forest Camping & Adventure – A Travel Guide

Ismail lakdawala.

• July 4, 2019

This is an informative travel guide for Polo Forest in Gujarat for Camping & Adventure Activities like Bouldering & Rappelling. Polo Forest is a lush green stretch of hilly forest in Northern Gujarat, among the Aravali Mountain Range. The forest has 600-year-old ruins of ancient Temples that are a must-visit. There are many short treks & hikes and other activities like bird watching that you can enjoy in Polo Forest. Nearby spots like Idar Fort and Boulders near Sapawada and Idar are worth visiting for Rappelling and Trekking.

We had gone with an organisation called Invincible NGO which takes a 2 day camp for youth with camping and rappelling activities. There are many other organisations like Junoon and a few others who offer similar budget youth adventure camps.

There are many established businesses and resorts offering retreats, stays and packages as well on an individual basis.

Read this travel guide to Polo Forest to get all the details for visiting Polo Forest with your friends and family either to going camping or to relax in the greenery. Here are the details from our Itinerary that you may refer to to get more details.

POLO FOREST TRAVEL GUIDE IN BRIEF

Arrive at Idar at 6 AM

Trek the Idar Fort , enjoy the sunrise

Have Breakfast, reach Invincible Camp Site /Accommodation

Set up your tents

Enjoy some activities till lunch

Go site seeing to Harnav Dam

Spend time near the stream on the way to the dam

Campfire at night

Go for Polo Forest Trek with a guide

See the ruins

Go for Rappelling & Bouldering at Sapawada

HOW TO REACH POLO FOREST

Driving your vehicle to Polo Forest is convenient. State Road Transport Buses ( GSRTC ) take you to Idar or Vijaynagar/Abhapur (Inside Polo Forest). Local transport can take you from Idar to Polo Forest. Private buses also run to Idar. Invincible Tour started from Ahmedabad in their own bus.

Not well connected. The nearest Big Junctions will be Ahmedabad or Himmatnagar.

The nearest Airport will be Ahmedabad.

WHAT TO DO IN POLO FOREST

Here are all the details about what we did when we went to Polo Forest, with Invincible NGO. You can take some inspiration from this Polo Forest travel guide and choose to visit spots as we did or refer to what schedule we followed.

• Depart from Ahmedabad at 1:30 AM.
• Reach Idar at 6 AM
• Trek the Fort / Idariyo Gadh
• Have breakfast
• Reach Invincible Campsite
• Tent Allocation & Set up of Camps till noon
• Activities/Free Time
• Have Lunch at Camp
• Head to Harnav Dam
• Enjoy the ride and views
• Stop by the streams to have some fun
• Enjoy the sunset & Reach Campsite
• Freshen up and dinner
• Camp Fire with activities
• Breakfast & Freshen up at 6AM
• Trek in the forest with the guide
• Visit the ruins
• Enjoy till lunch
• Have lunch at camp & head to Sapawada
• Rappelling, Bouldering and other activities till sunset
• Depart after sunset

STAYS IN POLO FOREST

One recommended option is the government campsite, right inside the forest next to the river. It is an A/C campsite set that needs to be booked online.

As we went with an operator, they had their own campsite set up near the forest. There are numerous other stay options from budget to luxury in Polo Forest.

A quick google search will also give you many other options you have to choose from camps. Campsites in Polo Forest

The Fern resort has opened up at Polo Forest in 2019. They offer luxury accommodation that you can choose from.

WHERE TO EAT IN POLO FOREST

Our Food was all at the campsite or provided by our organisers. There are not many options of restaurants easily available in the region. Each of the accommodation providers will provide you with food during your stay.

There are a few restaurants near the entry of the forest that do provide food so nothing to worry much about.

HOW TO TRAVEL AROUND

It is difficult to find public transport options to commute in Polo Forest. The places are within walking distance from each other in Polo Forest so you can definitely go walking.

However, no autos or taxis are available. Few buses pass through that you can ride to reach Idar or inside the forest.

There is a cycle rental kiosk of government at the entry however it was closed when we visited.

Having your own vehicle will be convenient or you can rent the bicycles from the kiosk to have a nice time in the forest!

HELPFUL TIPS

• Visit in Monsoon & Winters only. The summers will be extremely hot and will not be fun.
• Carry water with you if you go on treks or site seeing.
• Carry appropriate rain protection during monsoons.
• Adventure activities are available only via the organisers, no individual operators of the activities are present.
• Going with Invincible or Junoon is a good option only if you want to experience the feeling of a camp. It involves a lot of discipline, and volunteering and maybe tiresome for some if you are looking for a picnic or some leisure time.

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