A large deciduous Aravalli forest on the banks of the Harnav River with 15th-century Abhapur temples, dry-season trekking routes and a one-day trek option from Ahmedabad. It is the best woodland walking near the city but a long drive away.
Polo Forest is a stretch of Aravalli foothill forest in Vijaynagar taluka, Sabarkantha, roughly 150 km from Ahmedabad by road via Himmatnagar and Idar. The Harnav River runs through it and the forest contains the ruins of Abhapur, including the Sharaneshwar Shiva temple and several Jain temples dating to the 15th century. Trekking routes climb low ridges and follow forest tracks and streams, passing viewpoints and, after the monsoon, small waterfalls. Distances of 4 to 10 km are typical and the terrain is moderate rather than demanding. Local groups such as Gujarat Adventure Club run one-day treks from Ahmedabad, and forest department entry fees and guides may apply. Wildlife is present in the wider forest, so walking with a local guide is advisable, and the monsoon brings leeches, slippery paths and river crossings. Accommodation is available in nearby resorts for overnight stays.
| Distance | Forest walks and ridge treks of 4-10 km depending on route |
|---|---|
| Duration | Half a day to a full day, plus roughly 3.5 to 4 hours driving each way |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | Private car or taxi from Ahmedabad via Himmatnagar and Idar (about 150 km); organised group transport is available through local trekking clubs. |
| Best season | October to February; the forest is greenest just after the monsoon |
| Address | Polo Forest, Abhapur, Vijaynagar, Sabarkantha, Gujarat 383460, India |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Vijaynagar, Sabarkantha District, about 150 km north-east of Ahmedabad
What to bring
- Trekking shoes
- 2-3 litres of water
- Insect repellent
- Long trousers
- Packed lunch
Location
Polo Forest, Abhapur, Vijaynagar, Sabarkantha, Gujarat 383460, India
23.9850, 73.2690 View on map
Highlights
- Ruined 15th-century Abhapur temples inside the forest
- Harnav River and seasonal waterfalls after the monsoon
- Dry Aravalli forest ridges with valley viewpoints
- One-day organised treks available from Ahmedabad
Tips for visiting
- Walk with a local guide or an organised group rather than alone
- Leave Ahmedabad before 6:00AM to allow time on the trail
- Avoid deep monsoon, when paths are slippery and rivers rise
- Confirm entry rules with the forest office or a local operator before the trip
When to visit
October to February, from early morning.
Accessibility
Trails are unpaved forest tracks with river crossings, so the area is not suitable for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Polo Forest from Ahmedabad?
About 150 km, roughly 3.5 to 4 hours by road via Himmatnagar and Idar.
Is it possible to visit as a day trip?
Yes, and organised one-day treks operate, though an overnight stay reduces the driving strain.
Is the forest safe to walk alone?
A guide is advisable because trails are informal and wildlife lives in the wider forest.