Tourism in Sabarkantha district, Gujarat, is famed for being an excellent site for exploring the ancient past. Beautiful temples, palaces and forts stand gracefully in the district showcasing their admirable architecture and artistry. Ruins of several other structures also make the district an interesting excursion site. Many of them narrate the culture and events of the bygone era.
Idar
Idar State, also known as Idargadh, is a town situated at the north of Himmatnagar town. It is famed for huge black rocks. A massive fort stands in the town and solid hard black rocks surround it, protecting it from any kind of harm. The fort is located at an elevated ground from the surrounding region of the town, known as Idar hill. Rajput descendents of Bappa Rawal had captured the fort by defeating the Bhil rulers of this area. Carved steps can be found to reach the fort from the town. Near the fort there is an ivory like tower, known as Ruthi Rani nu Mahal (Palace of Sulking Queen) which was renovated by Kumarpal. Other places of attraction near Idar include Rao Ranmalla Chowki which derives its name form the famous poet who wrote poems to depict the brave actions of Kumarpal. A horse cave is also situated nearby. It is believed that the Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang crossed this region and reached a village called Valabhi. Stone inscriptions have also been discovered which belong to 1208, 1219, and 1273 AD. At a little distance from the town, ancient temples of Roda are also present for which it has been predicted that a rich city was probably present here in ancient times. Remains of Vijayanagar Empire have also been found here. A museum is situated in the town which houses these photographs and sculptures.
Poshina Darbargadh
Poshina Darbargarh is an elegant palace of Gujarat, situated in Poshina region of the district which was a small yet prominent kingdom of the past. It presently serves as a heritage hotel. It was built by the descendents of Chanakya, who ruled over Gujarat, at the foothill of Aravalli. The building is embellished with exquisite architecture. Around 17th century, this Darbargarh was constructed and immensely decorated for the royal guests. The place also gives a beautiful view of Ambaji Temple, Khedbrahma temple and the lain temples at Kumbhariya.
Shamlaji Temple
Shamlaji temple is one of the best Vishnu temples of Gujarat. It is situated amidst a spectacular landscape exhibiting an impressive architecture. The temple was erected in 15th century and later underwent several phases of renovation. Around the temple, ruins and mounds of other old temples can also be found and behind the temple is situated a beautiful lake known as Shyam Sarovar. Intricate artistic carvings adorn the pillars of the temple and the outer walls are profusely sculptured. Remnants of Viharas and Stupas have also emerged from nearby regions which suggest that the area was an important Buddhist centre once.
Sir Pratap Singh Palace
It is a magnificent palace situated in the district and is centuries old. It houses paintings of hunting scenes, portraits of English royalty, trophies and many other artefacts of ancient era.
Other Tourist Places in Sabarkantha
Other attractive tourist places in Sabarkantha district include a clock tower, the Shantinath temple, Polo forests and many other excursion sites.
