Idar
Idar was the capital of a princely state ruled by a branch of. The Rathore dynasty, and its fort complex, built. Rebuilt across several hilltops from medieval times through the Rathore period. Makes dramatic use of the region’s natural granite boulder outcrops as fortification. Gateways, bastions and old palace buildings are scattered across the ascent. Panoramic views over the surrounding plains and forest from the summit. The town retains a quiet, small-town character. Serves as a natural staging point for visitors heading into the nearby Polo Forest.
Idar at a Glance
Essential information about Idar.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Overview
Idar was the capital of a princely state ruled by a branch of the Rathore dynasty, and its fort complex, built and rebuilt across several hilltops from medieval times through the Rathore period, makes dramatic use of the region’s natural granite boulder outcrops as fortification. Gateways, bastions and old palace buildings are scattered across the ascent, with panoramic views over the surrounding plains and forest from the summit. The town retains a quiet, small-town character and serves as a natural staging point for visitors heading into the nearby Polo Forest. Idar sits at an elevation of 219 m and is typically explored in about 1-2 hours. The most favourable months to visit are January, December, November, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Other notable highlights include sunset view from Kamal Talav over fort ramparts, climb through arched gateways to the Rajmahal palace ruins, and panorama of granite hills from the fort’s highest bastion. It falls within Sabarkantha district and Gujarat, India.
Highlights
- Sunset view from Kamal Talav over fort ramparts
- Climb through arched gateways to the Rajmahal palace ruins
- Panorama of granite hills from the fort’s highest bastion
- Morning stroll around the ancient Hanuman temple at the fort base
- Explore the carved stepwell near the old town market
- Walk the shaded path to the Jain temple on the hill’s eastern slope
Getting There
Things To Do
Picnic at the Harnav River viewpoint within the Polo Forest fringe
From the fort’s northern base, walk a short trail to a rocky ledge overlooking the Harnav River as it winds through the Polo Forest. This is a quiet, shaded spot where you can spread a mat, enjoy packed snacks, and listen to bird calls from the surrounding teak and bamboo groves.
1.5 hours
Sunrise climb to Idar Fort’s Rajmahal Palace ruins
Start early to ascend the granite boulder steps to the top of the fort, where the crumbling Rajmahal Palace offers panoramic views of the surrounding Aravalli hills and the town below. The cool morning light makes the climb worthwhile, and you can explore the old royal chambers and water cisterns.
3 hours
Explore the fort’s hidden granaries and guard rooms
With a local guide (available at the base), enter the partially intact granaries and small guard rooms carved into the fort’s interior rock face. These chambers, once used to store grain and ammunition, feature narrow slit windows and echo oddly, offering a glimpse into the fort’s defensive life.
1 hour
Walk through the lower fort’s stepwell and temple complex
Near the base of the fort, visit the ancient Kamalnath Mahadev Temple and its adjoining stepwell, where pilgrims still perform rituals. The intricate carvings on the stepwell’s pillars and the shaded courtyard provide a peaceful spot to rest and observe local devotees.
1.5 hours
Evening aarti at the Chamunda Mata shrine on the fort summit
At sunset, join a handful of pilgrims at the small Chamunda Mata shrine perched at the highest point of the fort. The priest lights oil lamps and performs a brief aarti, while the fading light turns the granite outcrops golden—a serene, spiritual end to the day.
1 hour
Boulder-hopping photography session at the fort’s eastern ramparts
Follow the less-trodden path along the fort’s eastern edge, where massive rounded granite boulders create natural viewpoints and dramatic rock formations. This area is ideal for capturing the contrast of grey stone against the green forest, with minimal crowds.
2 hours
Travel Tips
Pre-arrange a local guide for the group
A guide not only explains the history of the 10th-century temple complex and the forest’s flora, but also helps you navigate the less obvious paths and warns you about slippery zones. Ask your hotel in Idar to book one in advance, and agree on a slow walking pace before starting.
Book a 4x4 vehicle for the forest safari
The last stretch to Polo Forest is a rough, unpaved track with steep inclines. For senior travellers, a high-clearance SUV with a local driver is safer and more comfortable than a standard car, especially after rain.
Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water
There are no reliable food stalls or clean restrooms inside Polo Forest, and the nearest proper restaurant is back in Idar town. Bring a packed meal, snacks, and at least 2 litres of water per person, plus a small first-aid kit.
Start your visit early, by 8:00 AM
The forest gets very hot by noon, and walking paths near the river and temple ruins are easier to manage in the cool morning hours. This also gives you ample time to relax and avoid rushing between sights.
Carry your own foldable walking stick and sturdy shoes
The terrain around the ancient Shiva temple and the riverbed is uneven, with loose stones and slippery patches near water. A stick helps with balance, and closed, non-slip shoes are essential for all group members.
Good to Know Nearby
Practical essentials close to Idar — handy for senior and group travellers.
Hospitals
- Gayatri Surgical and Laproscopy Centre0.7 km
- Astha Surgical Hospital and Kalayan Uro-Leproscopy Centre0.8 km
- Madhur Hospital1 km
- Mamata Gaynec Hospital1 km
- Vardan Hospital, Idar1.1 km
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal time is from October to March, when temperatures are pleasant (15-30°C) and the forest is lush after the monsoon. Avoid April to June as it gets very hot and dry, making walking trails uncomfortable for senior travellers.
No entry permit is required for Indian citizens, and you can walk around freely without a guide. However, hiring a local guide (available near the parking area for around 300-500 rupees) is highly recommended for the group, as they know the safe paths, point out historical carvings, and help you avoid slippery spots near the river.
Yes, it is quite practical, as the drive from Idar town to the forest entrance is about 30-40 minutes on a decent road, and the whole area can be explored in 3-4 hours. However, there are no medical facilities inside the forest, so carry your regular medicines, a first-aid kit, and inform your driver or guide of any health conditions.
The main trails are mostly flat with some uneven stone paths and small stream crossings, so a moderate level of mobility is needed. For those who prefer easier access, you can drive to the main temple complex and the riverbank, and take short, guided walks of 200-400 metres on firmer ground.
Basic public toilets are available near the main parking area and the temple, but they are not always spotless, so carry your own tissues and hand sanitiser. There are small local tea stalls and snack vendors selling bhajiya and chai, but for a proper meal, it is safer to carry packed food or eat at a restaurant in Idar town before entering.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Idar
Day 1
Begin your journey in Idar by acclimatizing to the town’s relaxed pace. Spend the morning exploring the majestic Idar Fort, which sits atop granite boulders and offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kamalnath Mahadev Temple, a peaceful spot tucked into the forested foothills, before returning to town for a leisurely evening.
- Climb the stone steps to Idar Fort, exploring its ramparts, old gates, and the remnants of the royal palace, while enjoying cool breezes and bird’s-eye views.
- Visit the Kamalnath Mahadev Temple, located about 5 km from Idar, known for its natural spring and Shiva lingam set among large boulders.
- Take a short walk through the local market in Idar town, where you can see artisans crafting wooden toys and lacquerware, a traditional craft of the region.
Day 2
Dedicate your second day to the lush, sprawling Polo Forest, a mix of dry deciduous woodland, ancient temples, and the Harnav River. Start early to enjoy the cool morning light, then spend the day on gentle walks between temple ruins and riverbanks. Return to Idar by late afternoon, with time to rest before your evening departure.
- Walk the 2-km nature trail from the Polo Forest entrance to the 10th-century Jain and Hindu temple complex, including the famous Sun Temple and Ambika Temple, with their intricate carvings.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch beside the Harnav River, where shallow, clear water flows over smooth rocks—perfect for dipping your feet or sitting on boulders.
- Spot wildlife like langurs, peacocks, and migratory birds along the forest paths, especially near the Sarneshwar Temple and the old dam area.
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Polo Forest
Gujarat
5 place(s) covered within Polo Forest
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