Polo Forest at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Gujarat |
| Famous For | Forest Ruins, Trekking, Camping |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Gujarati, Hindi, English |
| Nearest Airport | Ahmedabad Airport (AMD), 150km from Polo Forest |
| Nearest Railway | Idar (IDAR) |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹100+ (varies) |
| Best For | nature and adventure seekers |
Polo Forest: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Polo Forest, nestled in the Aravali hills of Gujarat, is a hidden gem known for its ancient ruins and dense forests. This offbeat destination offers a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure, making it a perfect escape from the bustling city life.
Polo Forest is ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers. The pros include tranquil surroundings, historical exploration, and opportunities for trekking and camping. However, the limited accommodation options and basic amenities can be a drawback for some travelers. The lack of public transportation also makes it less accessible.
Polo Forest: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polo Jain Temples | 06:00-18:00 daily | Free | Morning or late afternoon to a | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| Sharneshwar Temple | 06:00-19:00 daily | Free | Any time of day, but the atmos | Modest attire |
| Vireshwar Temple | 07:00-18:00 daily | Free | Morning is ideal for a peacefu | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Polo Forest: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
train Train to Polo Forest: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Idar (IDAR) — Nearest railway station, about 30 km from Polo Forest. Limited train connectivity.
- From Delhi (to Ahmedabad): 12-15 hours (₹800-2500)
- From Mumbai (to Ahmedabad): 6-8 hours (₹500-1500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Polo Forest: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Ahmedabad Airport (AMD), 150km from Polo Forest
- Delhi: 1.5 hours (₹3000-6000)
- Mumbai: 1 hour (₹2500-5000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2500-3500
- Car Rental: ₹2000-3000 per day
directions_bus Bus to Polo Forest: Services & Timings
- From Ahmedabad: 3-4 hours (₹300-500)
Buses are available from Ahmedabad to Vijaynagar, the closest town to Polo Forest. From Vijaynagar, hire a jeep or taxi to reach Polo Forest.
Best Time to Visit Polo Forest: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: October to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: October to March | 15-30 degrees C | This is the best time to explore Polo Forest due to the comfortable temperatures | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: July to September | 25-35 degrees C | The monsoon season offers a unique perspective of Polo Forest, with vibrant gree | Be prepared for heavy rainfall and |
| Avoid: April to June | 35-45 degrees C | Avoid visiting Polo Forest during the summer months due to the scorching heat an | If you must visit during this time, |
Peak season note: Expect moderate crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended.
2-Day Polo Forest Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🙏 Polo Jain Temples
These ancient Jain temples, dating back to the 15th century, are a significant part of Polo Forest's historical heritage. The temp…
💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to avoid crowds.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 Sharneshwar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Sharneshwar Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine surrounded by lush greenery. The temple's architecture …
💡 Tip: Combine your visit with a trek to nearby viewpoints for panoramic views of the forest.
🙏 Vireshwar Temple
The Vireshwar Temple is another ancient Hindu temple in Polo Forest, known for its unique architecture and historical significance…
💡 Tip: Check with locals for any festivals or special events happening at the temple during your visit.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
📍 Polo Campsite
The Polo Campsite offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the forest up close. Surrounded by lush greenery and anc…
💡 Carry insect repellent and warm clothing, as the nights can get chilly.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Idariyo Gadh
Idariyo Gadh is a historical fort located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The trek to the for…
💡 Start the trek early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the sunrise views.
Top Places to Visit in Polo Forest: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🙏 Polo Jain Temples | Free | 2-3 hours | 06:00-18:00 daily |
| 2 | 🙏 Sharneshwar Temple | Free | 1-2 hours | 06:00-19:00 daily |
| 3 | 🙏 Vireshwar Temple | Free | 1 hour | 07:00-18:00 daily |
| 4 | 📍 Polo Campsite | ₹100 per person for entry, camping fees vary | Varies (overnight stay) | Open 24 hours |
| 5 | 📍 Idariyo Gadh | Free | 3-4 hours | Sunrise to Sunset |
| 6 | 🏖️ The Riverside | Free | 2 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 7 | 🏖️ Waterfalls (Seasonal) | Free | 1-2 hours | Daylight hours |
🙏 1. Polo Jain Temples
These ancient Jain temples, dating back to the 15th century, are a significant part of Polo Forest's historical heritage. The temples showcase intricate carvings and architectural details, reflecting the rich Jain traditions of the region.
Honest take: Worth visiting for history buffs and those interested in Jain architecture.
📍 Getting there: Accessible by car or jeep from Polo Forest entrance.
🙏 2. Sharneshwar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Sharneshwar Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine surrounded by lush greenery. The temple's architecture and serene ambiance attract both devotees and tourists.
Honest take: A worthwhile visit for those seeking spiritual solace and natural beauty.
📍 Getting there: Located within Polo Forest, accessible by car or jeep.
🙏 3. Vireshwar Temple
The Vireshwar Temple is another ancient Hindu temple in Polo Forest, known for its unique architecture and historical significance. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and attracts devotees from nearby villages.
Honest take: Worth a visit for its historical and religious significance.
📍 Getting there: Located within the forest, accessible by jeep or a short trek.
Food & Restaurants in Polo Forest: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Gujarati Thali, Undhiyu, Thepla, Khaman, Dhokla, Lilva Kachori
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Pav Bhaji | ₹ (₹400-600 for two) | Vijaynagar |
| Baingan Bharta | ₹ (₹300-500 for two) | Near Polo Forest |
| Paneer Tikka Masala | ₹₹ (₹600-900 for two) | Near Polo Forest |
🛺 Street Food: Vijaynagar Market — Bhajiyas, Vada Pav, Dabeli (₹50-100 per person)
Polo Forest Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-1200/night | ₹2500-4000/night | ₹5000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Polo Forest: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Abu | 180 km | ~4 hrs | hill station, dilwara temples, nakki lake |
| Ahmedabad | 150 km | ~2.5–3 hrs | India, Heritage City, Textile |
| Modhera Sun Temple | 120 km | ~2.5–3 hrs | — |
Hotels in Polo Forest: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Polo Forest Eco Campsite
₹800-1200/night
Within Polo Forest
Vijaynagar Campsite
₹700-1000/night
Near Vijaynagar
🏨 Mid-Range
The Forest Hill Resort
₹2500-4000/night
Vijaynagar
Hotel Green Olive
₹2000-3500/night
Near Polo Forest
⭐ Luxury
Polo Tent City
₹5000+/night
Near Polo Forest
Balaram Palace Resort
₹4500+/night
Balaram (approx. 60km from Polo)
Polo Forest Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Overcharging by taxi drivers: Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
- ✓ Fake guides: Hire guides from reputable sources or tourist information centers.
- ✓ Wear comfortable and breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Carry a light jacket or sweater for the evenings.
- ✓ ATMs are available in Vijaynagar and Idar, but it's advisable to carry enough cash.
- ✓ Airtel and Jio offer good network coverage. Purchase a SIM card at the airport or in major cities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Polo Forest
How many days are enough for Polo Forest?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Polo Forest. Day 1 covers Polo Jain Temples and Sharneshwar Temple, while Day 2 explores Polo Campsite and Idariyo Gadh.
What is Polo Forest famous for?
Polo Forest is famous for Forest Ruins, Trekking, Camping.
What is the best time to visit Polo Forest?
The best time to visit Polo Forest is October to March. The weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and exploring the ruins. Clear skies offer excellent visibility for sightseeing.
Is Polo Forest worth visiting?
Yes, Polo Forest is worth visiting for Forest Ruins, Trekking, Camping. It is especially recommended for nature and adventure seekers and can be combined with a visit to Mount Abu.
What is the budget for a trip to Polo Forest?
A 2-day trip to Polo Forest costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-1200/night per night.
What are the timings of Polo Jain Temples?
Polo Jain Temples is open 06:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat..
What is the entry fee for Polo Jain Temples?
Entry fee at Polo Jain Temples: Free.
What is the dress code for Polo Jain Temples?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Polo Jain Temples.
Is photography allowed at Polo Jain Temples?
Photography is allowed (fee may apply) at Polo Jain Temples.
What are the timings of Sharneshwar Temple?
Sharneshwar Temple is open 06:00-19:00 daily. Best time to visit: Any time of day, but the atmosphere is particularly enchanting during sunrise and sunset..
What is the entry fee for Sharneshwar Temple?
Entry fee at Sharneshwar Temple: Free.
Is photography allowed at Sharneshwar Temple?
Photography is allowed (fee may apply) at Sharneshwar Temple.
What are the timings of Vireshwar Temple?
Vireshwar Temple is open 07:00-18:00 daily. Best time to visit: Morning is ideal for a peaceful visit and to avoid crowds..
What is the entry fee for Vireshwar Temple?
Entry fee at Vireshwar Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Vireshwar Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Vireshwar Temple.
Is photography allowed at Vireshwar Temple?
Photography is not allowed inside at Vireshwar Temple.