The short answer
Devgadh Baria and its Rajmahal: what visitors should know first
Pass through, stop for tea and see the Rajmahal from outside. The palace is a family residence, so do not plan on going in; the town is mainly useful for supplies and as the gateway to Ratanmahal.
History and context
The story behind Devgadh Baria and its Rajmahal
According to the town's history, Dungerpursinh, a younger son of the Pavagadh ruler, founded Devgadh Baria after leaving the region when Mahmud Begada's forces threatened Pavagadh. His family ruled the Baria State for twelve generations, and it remained a princely state until Indian independence in 1947.
The Rajmahal was the family's residence. The family regained it from the government in 2006, renovated it over nine years and moved back in 2015.
Useful facts
Devgadh Baria and its Rajmahal facts at a glance
- Location
- Devgadh Baria, Dahod district, on the Panam river
- Experience type
- Small town and gateway stop
- Known for
- Former capital of Baria princely state
- Built
- Town founded centuries ago; Rajmahal is the royal residence
- Time or schedule
- Town open daily; palace is private
Why it matters
Why Devgadh Baria and its Rajmahal is worth your time
Devgadh Baria is the town most closely connected with Ratanmahal, and it is where visitors pick up supplies and local information. It was the seat of a princely state until 1947, which gives a quiet historical layer to what is otherwise a farming and forest town.
It also shows the area's tribal and royal past side by side. Visitors who stop for an hour come away with a clearer sense of why the sanctuary lies where it does.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The Rajmahal
The former royal residence can be seen from outside; it is a family home.
- 02
The Panam river
The river flows beside the town and rises in the nearby sanctuary.
- 03
Gateway supplies
The last good chance for fuel, water and medicines before the forest.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Treat Devgadh Baria as a gateway rather than a destination. Arrive in the morning, fill the car with fuel and buy water, snacks and medicines before you continue towards the sanctuary. Walk through the market area for a feel of a small town in eastern Gujarat, and look for the Rajmahal, which can be seen from the outside.
The name combines Devgadh, the hill around the town, with Baria, a local tribe. The Panam river runs beside the town, and the hills behind give a pleasant view in the early evening. Tea stalls and simple eateries serve local food.
Ask locally about the sanctuary road conditions and the vehicle you may need for the hill. If you are staying at Kanjeta, stop here first so you arrive in daylight with everything you need.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Fuel up and buy supplies here
- Do not enter the Rajmahal without permission
- Ask about the road to Kanjeta
- Photograph respectfully, not residents
- Leave in time to reach camp before dark
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Devgadh Baria, about 55 km east of Dahod
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
- Best time
- Winter mornings
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The town is flat and unhurried, with plenty of seating at tea stalls and short walks. Facilities are basic and roads are busy near the market, so a car and driver is the comfortable way.
- Tickets and access
- The Rajmahal is the family's private residence, so interior visits are not on offer to casual visitors. The town and its streets are free to walk.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Devgadh Baria and its Rajmahal
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The town is flat and unhurried, with plenty of seating at tea stalls and short walks. Facilities are basic and roads are busy near the market, so a car and driver is the comfortable way.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Can I visit the Rajmahal?
It is a private family residence, so interior visits are not generally available. You can see it from outside.
How far is Devgadh Baria from Dahod?
About 55 km west to east by road, roughly an hour and a half.
Are there hotels?
Lodging is basic; confirm current options locally.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
