The temples at Polo were built between roughly the 10th and 15th centuries, when the area sat on a trade route linking Gujarat with Rajasthan and Malwa under Parmara and later Idar rulers, and several dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras survive in varying states of ruin alongside a few Shiva shrines. Abandoned as the settlement declined, the temples now stand within dense forest, their carved doorframes and broken shikharas wrapped in roots and undergrowth, giving the site an atmosphere closer to a lost city than a maintained monument. The ruins are one of the main draws for visitors exploring the Polo Forest on foot. Jain Temples sits at an elevation of 314 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 carved lotus medallions on the sanctum ceiling, broken torana arch with dancing apsara figures, and tirthankara statue seated in a root-wrapped niche. It falls within Sabarkantha district, India.
State: Gujarat
Ideal Duration: 1-2 Hours
January, December, November, February
The ideal time is from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant for walking through the forest and temple ruins. Avoid the monsoon (June to September) as trails become slippery and the forest can be inaccessible.
There are no shops or restaurants within the temple complex, so you must carry your own water and snacks. The nearest proper dining options are in the village of Poles or on the way back towards Himmatnagar, so plan for a picnic lunch among the ruins.
No, there is no entry fee for the temples or the Polo Forest area itself. However, you may need to pay a small parking fee for your vehicle near the forest entrance, and it is wise to register your visit at the forest check post for safety.
The temples are spread over a large area, and you will need to walk about 1-2 kilometres on uneven, rocky paths, often with gentle uphill sections. It is manageable for fit seniors, but we recommend sturdy shoes, a walking stick, and taking frequent rests; consider hiring a local guide who knows the shortest routes.
These are ancient Jain temples, mostly dating to the 10th-12th centuries, dedicated to Tirthankaras like Adinath and Neminath. They are no longer active for regular worship, but they are protected archaeological sites, so you can explore them freely, though you should maintain respectful silence and avoid touching the carved idols.