Polo Forest: My Soulful Escape Into Gujarat’s Ancient Wilderness
There are places you visit for a photo, and others, like Polo Forest, that steal a slice of your heart. My journey into this lush, mysterious world etched memories I’ll cherish forever.
Why Polo Forest Stands Apart
Some places in India seem to breathe with history, but few are as enchantingly wild as Polo Forest. Nestled near the village of Vijaynagar in northern Gujarat, right on the cusp of Rajasthan, Polo Forest is a 400 sq km stretch of dense teak and deciduous woods, ancient ruins, shimmering streams, and stories that echo through its shady canopies. Polo Forest is not just a destination; it’s a profound experience of nature, heritage, and serenity.
When I first saw the morning mist drift over those mossy ancient temples, heard the birdsong above the rush of the Harnav River, and smelled the earthy sweetness after a fresh monsoon shower, I understood why adventurers, history buffs, and nature seekers return here year after year.
My Journey: Lost and Found in Polo’s Embrace
Maps can get you close, but Polo Forest is a place best discovered by intuition. I left Ahmedabad at dawn, my backpack filled with excitement and anticipation. The 150-kilometer drive was a blend of rural Gujarat’s patchwork fields and distant Aravalli hills. With each mile, the city’s noise melted away, replaced by the orchestra of cicadas and rustling leaves.
As I entered the forest, sunlight danced through tall teak trunks. The air here felt distinctly different—cooler, cleaner, as if nature was offering its own silent blessing. I remember stopping my bike at a clearing. A local shepherd, with the gentlest eyes, nodded a greeting. We shared a few words in Gujarati, and he pointed me toward a barely visible, centuries-old path. Sometimes, the best guides are those who call the forest home.
Top Attractions: What You Can’t Miss in Polo Forest
1. The Ancient Temples
There’s a strong, almost mystical feeling amongst the ruins of Polo. The 10th to 15th-century Jain and Shiva temples are half-consumed by the forest, their intricate stonework now tangled with roots and lichen. I spent hours tracing my fingers along carvings worn by time, feeling a kinship with travelers from hundreds of years ago. This Polo Forest shares more about this ancient splendor.
2. Harnav River & Dam
The gentle Harnav River is the lifeline here. Its banks are perfect for quiet reflection, picnic spots, or a splash during summer. The Harnav Dam, though small, is a favorite for sunrise seekers. Sitting on its edge, feet dangling in cool water, I felt time slow down—exactly what I crave from any nature getaway.
3. Watchtower & Trekking Trails
Climbing the old watchtower rewards you with panoramic views of the forest and Aravalli foothills. Don’t miss the forest department’s marked trekking routes; I picked the 4km loop, where I glimpsed langurs, peacocks, and the shy sambar deer. The forest is alive, every step a reminder of Gujarat’s wild side.
4. Sunset Point
I’ll never forget my sunset atop the small hill near the forest. Golden rays lit up the ruins, birds called out before dusk, and—if you’re lucky—the forest glows with fireflies at night. That walk back, with my torch in hand and the forest alive with night-sounds, was the highlight of my trip.
Local Food & Culture: Taste and Traditions of Polo Forest
Gujarat’s flavors come alive in the villages around Polo Forest. I was invited to a family’s home in Vijaynagar, where we shared bajra rotla, spicy sev tameta, and fresh buttermilk. There’s a sweetness in the hospitality here—the kind that doesn’t care where you’re from, only that you’ve come.
Don’t miss the local market’s fresh produce and the simple, satisfying kathiyawadi thali. Many forest dwellers are from the Bhil and Garasia tribal communities. I sat around their evening fire, listening to folktales and age-old songs. It was a humbling, heartwarming reminder that travel in India is as much about people as places.
Budget Travel Tips: Explore Polo Forest Without Breaking the Bank
- Stay Simple: Government-run campsites and basic guesthouses are affordable. Book ahead during weekends and festivals.
- Travel by Bus: Gujarat State Road Transport Buses connect Ahmedabad and Himmatnagar to Vijaynagar. Shared jeeps fill the last-mile gap.
- Eat Local: Roadside dhabas and local homes often serve the tastiest food at the lowest price.
- Pack Smart: Always carry extra clothes and plenty of water for a stress-free trip. The forest can be muddy after rains, and treks are thirsty work!
- Group Travel: Traveling with friends? Split costs on cabs and guides for economical adventures.
Best Months to Visit Polo Forest
Polo Forest shines brightest just after monsoon (August to December) when the woods are thick and rivers full. I visited in September—everything was lush, the air fresh, and mornings wrapped in mist. Winter days (December to February) are cool and perfect for trekking, but nights can get cold, so pack accordingly.
- Monsoon (July-September): Most beautiful, but be prepared for leeches and slippery trails!
- Winter (October-February): Best weather for camping and star-gazing.
- Summer (March-June): Hot and dry; not ideal unless you love solitude and birdwatching.
FAQs: Polo Forest Essentials
- Q: Is Polo Forest good for families?
A: Absolutely! Kids love the forest walks and ruins. Just keep an eye on them near rivers and old structures. - Q: Are guides necessary?
A: Not compulsory, but a local guide will make the history and wildlife come alive. I learned so much from mine! - Q: Any essentials to pack?
A: Comfortable shoes, mosquito repellent, energy bars, camera, and of course, extra clothes and lots of water. - Q: Can I camp in Polo Forest?
A: Yes, but stick to the official campsites. Wild camping is not allowed to protect wildlife. - Q: Any related adventures nearby?
A: Yes! Try the Idar hills for unique granite rock formations. Also you can go for see Modhera Sun temple one of beautiful places in gujarat
A Personal Note: What Polo Forest Taught Me
Travel isn’t just about new places—it’s about new perspectives. Sitting among the ruins at dusk, listening to the wind and distant chanting from a temple, I realized how deeply stories and nature intertwine here. Polo Forest taught me patience, humility, and the importance of conservation.
If you crave a journey that soothes the soul, challenges the legs, and opens your heart, let Polo Forest be your next escape. Sometimes, the forest heals you in ways you never expected. Pack your bags, keep your curiosity alive, and lose yourself in Gujarat’s green embrace. You might just find a piece of yourself you never knew was missing.