Hill Forest

Hill Forest in Sabarkantha, often referred to as Polo Forest, is a captivating expanse of wilderness nestled near the town of Vijaynagar in Gujarat. Spread across 400 square kilometers, this dry deciduous forest is cradled by the Aravalli hills and nourished by the perennial Harnav River, creating a lush ecosystem that comes alive especially after the monsoon.

The forest is a haven for biodiversity, home to over 450 species of medicinal plants, 275 species of birds, and a variety of mammals including leopards, sloth bears, hyenas, and flying squirrels. Its rich flora and fauna make it a favorite among nature lovers, birdwatchers, and trekkers. Beyond its natural beauty, Polo Forest is steeped in history.

The ruins of ancient temples—both Hindu and Jain—dot the landscape, whispering stories of a bygone era. These structures, some dating back to the 10th century, were built by the Parihar kings of Idar and later taken over by the Rathores of Marwar. The name “Polo” is derived from the Marwari word “pol,” meaning gate, symbolizing its role as a passage between Gujarat and Rajasthan.

The temples, such as the Sharaneshwar Shiva Temple and the Sun Temple, are adorned with intricate carvings and stand as silent sentinels amidst the forest canopy.