Physical activity is not a necessity—it’s a lifestyle we must embrace. Even the sharpest entrepreneurial minds must recharge their bodies with nature’s energy. Yet, our busy lives often lead us to neglect what nature offers. Adventure plans with friends end up just another scheduled cross-off on calendars. True adventurers make time to connect with nature, even if it means taking a short break from a rushed life. But, the people living in Gujarat need to take a calculated break. Because reaching the destination only eats up your vacation and long leaves are not possible for everyone.
Now, what if I tell you there are places in Gujarat that offer trekking adventure? Although they may not rival the Himalayas, they are enough to make your weekend fruitful.
This list of treks features well-known routes and some personal recommendations. Plus, nearby resort suggestions to chill with your friends and family.
Best Trekking places in Gujarat
1. Girnar: The Highest Trek in Gujarat
If you are from Gujarat, you know why Girnar is the best place for trekking and adventure. Although it’s more of a Pilgrimage mountain, it takes 10,000 steps to reach the top. The highest peak in Gujarat, situated in the Junagadh district, is the best one-day trekking in Gujarat.
Now, 10,000 steps sounds small, but test you in different ways. At first, the first 2,000 steps will start to break your dedication, with its steep steps, hard and command good endurance and stamina. If you conquer your mindset, you will enjoy the journey and reach 6,000 steps with ease.
The best part comes when the last 3,000 steps left, you get calm and move forward, and the joy of completing 10,000 is something else.
It’s not the best place for beginners. Although you have the option for a ropeway, going on foot is definitely worth it. The best time to visit is after the Rains, around September to February.
These places are often famous for trekking, so finding a place nearby can be difficult. But we have some recommendations you must try.
Best stay near Girnar
After hours of trekking, resting in a comfortable resort is ideal. We recommend the closest and best-rated options: Fern Leo Resort in Junagad, located just 4-5 km from Girnar, and Bellevue Sarovar Premiere, about 6 km away. Both offer excellent amenities, including a refreshing swimming pool, indoor games, spa, healthy veg food, and exceptional stay at a great price. If you like a separate villa, then Airbnb is better recommended; Karmata’s Shaktivan farm villa is about 12 km from the city but is worth going a little far.
Location
2. Pavagadh
If you are a beginner, Girnar might be too challenging — Pavagadh would be a great start. 75km from Vadodara, located in the Panchmahal district, Pavagadh is home to the Kalika Mata and only has 1800 steps.
Best stay near Pavagadh
The place is far from the city, so finding a place to stay would be difficult. But, if you have a personal car then it’s not an issue. Here are some of the best stays available near Pavagadh. Champaner Heritage is a 4-star resort 17km from Pavagadh. Meanwhile, Mount Heritage Resorts is 13km. We also recommended Airbnb, great if going with friends, easy on the pocket, and great for relaxation.
Location
AirBnB
3. Idahriyo Garh
Again an easy one-day trek to recommend. Idahriyo Garh is located in the Idar, and the view from the top is mesmerizing. At night, the city from the top feels like a star twinkling. Famous for sunset and sunrise, you can visit any time of the year, but morning time is highly recommended.
4. Polo Forest
The one-day trek or picnic for the Ahmedavadis is the polo forest. The place is situated in the jungle and has an easy trek to enjoy. Although this is the only place near Ahmedabad, chances are it gets crowded sometimes. But the trek is generous enough to offer an adventure of an hour and a half that takes you to the top of the mountain. The chirps of birds are the best nature has to offer.
Best stay near Polo Forest
The Trek at Polo Forest is not tiring enough? Then this place is for you – Ambica Exotica Resort. The place offers numerous amenities like a swimming pool with different rides, delicious food, comfortable rooms, and other outdoor activities. 15 min away from Polo, best for a 1-day vacation. The next stay is at The Fern Sattva Resort, a beautiful place surrounded by nature. If you just want to relax before returning to your normal life, this place is for you.
Location
5. Dharti Mata Temple
Polo Forest is a great trek, but if you want a real adventure, trekking to the Dharti Mata Mandir will make you feel alive. Just a 30-40 mins drive from Polo Forest, you can reach the trekking spot with your car.
It is highly recommended that you take advice from the locals, chances are you can get lost. There are no directional signs, just foot trails to follow. You will notice yourself moving inside the jungle from the mountains, small rivers, and waterfalls along the way.
Locals believe in the divine energy of the Dharti mata. The place is an untouched spot. Very few people knew it, but it’s getting exposure because of its different experience.
Trekking Dharti Mata is a very different experience, you will be traveling through the jungle with almost no trace of humans around other than your travel partner. All this makes it one of the best trek spots from Ahmedabad.
Best stay near Dharti Mata temple
The small temple is in jungle areas, so it’s hard to find a place nearby. But, the location is close to Polo forest. Only 30 mins of drive from Polo, so consider the stays recommended for Polo forest.
Other known trekking places in Gujarat
These 5 listed places above are great for adventure. But, If you are interested in more, we have also listed some other known places that you can visit.
- Bardai Hills
- Purna Wildlife Sanctuary
- Wilson Hills
- Don Hills
- Bhujiyo Fort
- Dhinodhar hill, Nakhatrana-kutch
- Kalo Dungar
Conclusion
Every place recommended and listed here has its own experience. We highly recommend visiting places close to nature.
As Edward Abbey said, ‘Wilderness is not a luxury but a necessity of the human spirit and as vital to our lives as water and good bread.’
Himalayas might not be possible for now. But our recommended destinations welcome you with great adventure. Visit with your family and friends to make your week memorable.
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