Before you go
Polo Forest with elderly parents: what to know
- Start early and plan for rest in the heat of the day; shade is patchy among the ruins.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks; facilities in the forest are limited.
- Choose two or three monuments rather than the whole circuit if walking is difficult.
- Wear sturdy closed shoes and watch your footing on broken stone and near the tank edge.
- Hire a registered guide or driver who knows the area, and agree the route beforehand.
- Keep a charged phone, but do not rely on signal deep in the forest.
Easiest first
Places in Polo Forest sorted by walking effort
Easy on the legs (1)
- Kalaliyo and Mamrehchi Hills (Places to visit · 20–30 minutes of viewing) — Viewing from open ground needs little walking. Climbing is not advisable for older or less fit visitors because of rough terrain and no maintained facilities that I could verify.
Some walking — plan a break (6)
- Harnav River and Forest Walks (Places to visit · 1–2 hours) — Walking is on natural ground, sometimes rocky or muddy, with little seating. Seniors can enjoy the river from accessible spots near a vehicle. Longer forest walks are best left to fitter visitors.
- Lakhera's Dera (Jain Temple Ruins) (Places to visit · 45–60 minutes) — The temples sit on open ground with uneven stone and rubble underfoot, and shade is patchy. It is manageable for steady walkers in cool weather, but there is little seating, so older visitors should pace themselves and bring water.
- Polo Forest Wildlife and Birdwatching (Places to visit · 2–4 hours) — Birdwatching can be slow and mostly standing or short strolls, which suits many older visitors, but ground is uneven and there is little seating. Bring a folding stool if you want to wait for birds.
- Sharaneshwar Shiva Temple (Places to visit · 45–60 minutes) — The approach is on uneven ground and the monument has broken steps and uneven stone floors, with little or no seating. Fit senior visitors can manage it slowly in the cool hours; anyone with knee or balance trouble should look from the compound edge and avoid climbing.
- Shiva-Shakti and Surya Temples (Places to visit · 30–45 minutes) — The ground is uneven and shade is limited. There is little seating, so older visitors should pace the walk and take breaks between monuments. Avoid climbing the ruined platforms.
- Trayatan Shiva Temple and Kund (Places to visit · 30–45 minutes) — Paths are uneven and the tank has stone edges that need care, especially after rain. Seating is minimal. Older visitors can enjoy it from the temple level without going near the water's edge.
Lots of walking or steps — choose carefully (1)
- Idar Fort (Idargadh) (Places to visit · 1.5–2.5 hours) — The fort is reached by a stone pathway through several gateways up a steep rocky hill. It is demanding for seniors; the palace and town walls at the foot are easier. Choose how far to climb and take breaks.
Base yourself well
Where to stay in Polo Forest with parents
HimatnagarBest for: Families and seniors who want a larger town with more choice
Small decisions
Practical tips for Polo Forest
- Heat. April to June is very hot and shade is patchy among the ruins. Visit in the cool mornings and rest at midday.
- Getting around. Hire a car. Gujarat Tourism says public transport runs but is not always reliable, and the monuments are spread out.
- Walking. Ground is uneven with broken stone. Closed shoes are essential and there is little seating.
- Money. Carry cash for guides and small purchases; do not count on cards or ATMs near the forest.
- Dress. Wear modest, sun-covering clothing, a hat and sturdy shoes. Some temples may still hold worship.
- Facilities. Expect few shops and limited toilets. Carry water, snacks and any medicines.
- Wildlife safety. Leopards and sloth bears live here. Stay on paths, travel in groups and avoid dawn or dusk walks alone.
- Respect. Mamrehchi hill is sacred to local Adivasis and some temples are used for worship. Ask first, take rubbish home and do not touch carvings.
Plan the rest of your Polo Forest trip
Want help?
Have Polo Forest planned around your parents
We build the route at their pace, book the stays, and can add a companion on the ground.