Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

About Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

The landscape presents a magnificent mosaic of grasslands and scrub forests. The sanctuary gets full of life during rainy season with beautiful shades of green colour all around and the area buzzing with lifChinkarae and various life forms. Its a place where the savannah type of grasslands and the scrubby forests merge into each other and on undulating and rugged tracks through the lower plains to small hillocks.The sanctuary area was earlier known as ‘Motisari vidi’ and belong to the ex-princely state of Jasdan. As the name suggests, the area was a savannah type of grassland with widely scattered scrub trees. It was a hunting reserve for the royal family and was also used for grass collection. The area is reported to be having even leopards which were sighted right up to August 1991. The rolling grasslands of savannah type interspersed with dry deciduous thorny and scrubby forests are sure to leave behind an imprint on the minds of the visitors.

The green lush patch of Hingolgadh sanctuary stands in stark contrast with the arid zone of neighboring areas of Saurashtra. Dry, deciduous scrub forest along with undulating verdant hills create a ubiquitous manifestation of nature’s glory. During rains the savannah lush grasslands blend with the green of the scrubby forest and perks up with various forms of life. The Sanctuary spread over an area of 654 sq kms, was declared a sanctuary in 1980. In 1984 its ample of natural offerings recognized the place as an eco-educational center and is administrated by the Gujarat Ecological Education and Research Foundation in Gandhinagar as the Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary.

While the melodious singing of bulbul enchants you and the shy fox hidden behind a shrub attracts your attention, be cautious and aware of where you are standing and proximity with reptiles. This unique untamed garden of nature is also home to 19 species of snake and you being alert will make the trip a safe and memorable endeavor.Being a responsible nature lover is our way of showing reverence to Mother Earth.

Unlike very few Wildlife sanctuaries in Gujarat India, Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary organizes camps to create awareness amongst the local people, and tourists in general, about wildlife, its preservation, and environmental studies. The authorities are trying to strike a balance with environment and the whole eco system of the place at large. The topography is partly undulating and partly wastelands. Gujarat Ecological and Education research work has contributed a lot in the way of continuously mapping the progress of this sanctuary, undertaking major tree plantation projects and breeding of the natural habitats in the sanctuary.

Interesting things to Visit

Fauna:
The sanctuary shelters various species of animals that include nilgai, chinkara, Indian hare, wolf, mongoose, Indian porcupine, jackals, hyenas etc. The sanctuary also supports around 230 species of birds like bulbul, weaver bird and many more.

Wildlife:
Due to the presence of grasslands and scrub forests, the sanctuary has a unique composition of wildlife. The most prominent wildlife species are Chinkara (a herbivore), Nilgai (Bluebull), Indian porcupine, Indian hare, Mongoose etc. Wolf - the top predator of the grassland, is the main carnivore along with Hyenas, Jackals etc. The unconfirmed presence of a leopard has been occasionally reported by the local people.

The sanctuary is remarkably rich in birds with 230 species. The whole sanctuary is filled with melodies of bird chirping. The large groups of bulbuls attract everybody’s attention with their metallic calls. Another interesting bird is the Weaver bird whose presence is most visible in the form of their typical hanging nests.The sanctuary has 19 species of snakes of which 3 are venomous and 16 non-venomous.

Nature education:
The presence of savannah types of grasslands and the scrub forests and the interesting fauna - particularly the remarkable diversity of bird species - has rendered the sanctuary an ideal place for nature education in a region which is otherwise dry. The sanctuary also presents very interesting geological and hydrological features. The smallness and the simplicity of physical features enhance the educational value of the place from the point of view of imparting nature education and creating public awareness about conservation of forests and wildlife. The small sanctuary of about 6 square kilometres provides a valuable opportunity for observing physical features such as hill-slopes, aspects, soil and soil erosion soil depth, drainage lines and water-flow and the impact of these features on the food chain comprising of vegetation (grasses, herbs, shrubs and scrubby trees) and the animal world primarily supported by the vegetation. In fact, the sanctuary is popularly known as Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary as nature education is one of the basic objectives of its management. The sanctuary is unique for its nature education value.

Nearest Visiting places from Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

Watson Museum:
Watson Museum and Library, Rajkot is a famous museum in Rajkot. This museum is a major Tourist Attraction in Rajkot. Watson Museum and Library in Rajkot is located in the Jubilee Gardens in Rajkot. The Watson Museum and Library, Rajkot was opened to the public in the year 1888 and commemorates Colonel James Watson, who was Saurashtra’s political agent from year1886-89. The entrance of the Watson Museum and Library in Rajkot is well decorated and attractive. The two majestic lion’s statues stand on both the sides of the entrance of the museum. Watson museum in Rajkot is also used as a library.The exhibits put up in the Watson Museum and Library of Rajkot includes copies of artifacts from Mohenjodaro, natural history exhibits, 13th-century carvings, temple statues and costumes and design of the houses of the local tribal people. The Watson Museum and Library at Rajkot in Gujarat also houses an excellent collection of traditional, archaeological items and coins. A major attraction of the Watson Museum is the huge marble statue of Queen Victoria seated on the throne and this attracts a huge number of tourists.

Rotary Midtown Doll’s Museum:
Rotary Midtown Doll’s Museum, Rajkot is an interesting place which is full of traditional and ethnic, dolls from all over the world. The dolls in the museum stand as a replica of human beings, Indian ethnic culture, traditions and family values. The dolls and toys exhibited in The Rotary Midtown Doll’s Museum in Rajkot, gives the visitor a chance to move around the world and get an idea of the culture and tradition that each of the country has. The adults and the children can take an interesting tour around the world through the toys and dolls brought from all over the world. A visit to the Rotary Midtown Doll’s Museum of Rajkot gives one a pleasure of going on a dream tour across the world with dolls. A visit to the museum is full of fun and entertainment. The dolls and the toys are exhibited in a thematic pattern. This helps the tourist to gain a deeper insight of the world’s culture and tradition.

Aji Dam Garden:
Aji Dam Garden is maintained by the Rajkot Municipal Corporation. In the amusement park of the Aji Dam Garden people can spend a nice time trying out the rides and eating snacks at the food courts. The Aji Dam Garden at Rajkot in Gujarat in India also has a bird aviary, zoo and crocodile park. This garden is situated at a distance of eight kilometers from the city, on the outskirts which gives the visitors an opportunity to move around in serene tranquility. During the winter season the Aji Dam Garden, Rajkot looks more beautiful as the trees and the flowers are in full bloom. The winter birds which comes to this area during the winter stays on the trees of the gardens which adds color and beauty to the Aji Dam Garden of Rajkot in Gujarat in India. The colorful and the vibrant atmosphere attract more and more people during this time of the year. The pleasant atmosphere of the park and the number of people around helps the visitor in having a good time in the Aji Dam Garden of Rajkot. People of Rajkot visit the Aji Dam Garden for an evening walk and to meet and sit with their friends and enjoy a beautiful evening. The food stalls and amusement park in the Aji Dam Garden of Rajkot attracts children and adults alike.

Ishwariya Temple:
The Ishwariya Temple, Rajkot is a very old temple and a popular tourist attraction in Rajkot and a notable holy place in Rajkot. The Ishwariya Temple in Rajkot in Gujarat in India is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the outskirts of the city. The location of the temple on the outskirts and on the hilly terrain makes it a favorable spot for an outing even for the locales. The Ishwariya Temple at Rajkot in Gujarat in India is visited by many people with a dual purpose, one that attracts the people to the Ishwariya Temple, Rajkot is the spiritual aspect of the temple and second is the location which makes it a favorite outing spot. People of Rajkot often visit the spot during the winter season to have a picnic with friends and families. The hilly terrain and the small pond located near by adds to the beauty and charm of the place. A small fair is also organized here annually.

Jubilee Garden:
Jubilee Garden, Rajkot is a major Tourist Attraction in Rajkot. Jubilee Garden is visited by people of all ages. The Jubilee Garden in Rajkot is known for the natural beauty and the beautiful atmosphere of the place. Jubilee Garden in Rajkot is situated in the heart of the city. Many other tourists attraction in Rajkot is all located near by the Jubilee Garden in Rajkot. The amusement parks in the Jubilee Garden attract both adults and children. People of all ages like to visit and spend time in the Jubilee Garden at Rajkot in Gujarat in India.The Jubilee Garden, Rajkot is a big garden with beautiful paths and trees lined by the path. The trees, the swings, beautifully laid paths make Jubilee Garden in Rajkot in Gujarat in India look more beautiful and attractive. Another major attraction of The Jubilee Garden in Rajkot is the local chutney called “Chevdo”. The Jubilee Garden is more famous for this chutney to all the visitors visiting the place. “Chevdo” is made by mixing pea nuts and rice flakes and the spice that is added to it gives “Chevdo” a tingling taste. “Chickee” is another local food that is sold here in the Jubilee Garden. “Chickee” is made out of nuts.

Swaminarayan Temple:
The Swaminarayan Temple, Rajkot is famous all over the world as the most notable holy place in Rajkot. The Swaminarayan Temple was set by the BAPS as the Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Sanstha is known. BAPS is an organization which operates by the Swaminarayan faith. BAPS as an organization was established in the year 1907 by Shastriji Maharaj.The Swaminarayan Temple, Rajkot operates in the same way as all other temples which belong to the same organization. The Swaminarayan Temple are known world wide for their spiritual value as well as the social work and the humanitarian service that they offer to the world. As all other temples that operates under BAPS, Swaminarayan Temple in Rajkot is also known for the hand carved stone by which the temple is made of.

The central figure of The Swaminarayan Temple at Rajkot in Gujarat in India is the Lord Swaminarayan. The idol set in the temple is a white idol of Lord Swaminarayan, beautifully clad in gorgeous cloth. The Swaminarayan temple follows some philosophical guidelines as set by the BAPS. They try to understand the five basic eternal units which comprises of Jiva, Ishwar, Maya, Brahman and Parabrahman.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation nearby Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

**Hotel Metro:**Prahlad Plot,Rajkot,Gujarat,Ph:0281 2227712

**Hotel Aditya:**Opposite Rajashri Talkies,Bhupendra Road, Rajkot,Gujarat,India,ph:0281 2220003

**Hotel Samrat Internaitonal:**37, KaranPara,Prahlad Plot,Rajkot,Gujarat,india,ph:0281 2222269

**Hotel Silver Palace:**Dr Yagnik Rd,Jagnath Plot,Rajkot,Gujarat,India,ph:0281 2480005

Location info

• **Address:**Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary,Rajkot,Gujarat,India

• District: Rajkot

• Nearest City: Jasdan

• Best time to visit: October to March

Climate & weather

summer with temperature soaring up to 45 ’C and proper care should be taken to avoid and kind of sickness. The winter in turn are quiet pleasant with average temperature dipping up to 12 ’C

History of Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

The area was declared as a ‘Private Forest’ in 1973 and a ‘Wildlife Sanctuary’ in the year 1980 and has been given special protection since then. Owing to its unique nature education features, the task of management and development of the sanctuary was handed over to Gujarat Ecological Education and Research (GEER) Foundation, Gandhinagar in 1984 as the latter has the basic mandate of imparting nature and ecological education to all sections of the society. Since then, the sanctuary is being managed by GEER Foundation under the statutory control of the Chief Conservator of Forests of Gujarat.

Things to do at Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

A visit to Hingolgadh Sanctuary is strongly recommended particularly during the rainy season when the scenic beauty is at its aesthetic best. However, the winter season is also a very good and pleasant time for visiting the sanctuary. The sanctuary provides limited lodging facilities for which prior permission and booking are necessary from the Range Forest Officer, Hingolgadh Wildlife Sanctuary.

How to reach Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Rajkot railway station

• **Nearest Airport:**Rajkot airport at 45 Km

**Road Transport:**State transport buses and Private Luxury coaches connects various centers of Gujarat. It is situated 45 Kms from Rajkot. The railway station and the bus station are at a distance of one km. Local Transport: Buses and taxis are available for travel within the city.

Helpline & emergency contacts

• **Police Station:**100

Nearest Hospital:
Civil Hospital:Rajkot,Gujarat,India
Om Babycare Hosiptal:Babulal Shah Marg,Nr. Jayhind Press,Rajkot,Gujarat,India,Ph:0281 2432727
HJ Doshi Hospital:Rajkot,Gujarat,India,ph:0281 2360531

• Society/Community Phone Number:

• **Link:**www.gujarattourism.com

Best time to visit Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

October to March for comfortable weather and wildlife sightings.

Timings & opening hours

6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Closed during monsoon season (July-September).

Entry fee & tickets

INR 20-50 for Indians. Safari vehicle charges extra.

Duration needed

Half day to full day.

Safety tips

Follow park rules. Do not exit the vehicle in restricted areas. Carry insect repellent. Stay quiet during safaris.

Things to carry

Binoculars, camera, water bottle, hat, insect repellent, light snacks.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport and railway station in the nearest city.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, and Vi all provide good coverage across Gujarat’s major cities and tourist areas. 4G is generally reliable in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote areas of Kutch and interior Saurashtra. Most hotels and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Food options are available in the nearest town. Traditional Gujarati thali restaurants and local eateries offer a range of vegetarian dishes.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pump available in the nearest town.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary? October to March.

What wildlife can be seen? Native species including deer, leopards, birds, and reptiles.

Is prior booking needed? Recommended.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Visitor information

Planning your visit to Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary

• Language: Gujarati is the local language; Hindi and English are widely understood at tourist sites.
• Getting around: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and state transport buses are readily available. Hiring a private vehicle is recommended for comfort.
• What to wear: Light cotton clothing in summer; light woolens in winter. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Modest dress is advised at religious sites.
• Photography: Check for photography restrictions before entering. Some temples and museums may charge a separate camera fee.
• Best time to visit: October to March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
• Local cuisine: Don’t miss Gujarati thali — a wholesome meal with dal, rice, vegetables, roti, and sweets like dhokla, khandvi, and mohanthal.

Nearby facilities

• ATMs: Available in nearby towns and at major tourist sites.
• Medical facilities: Primary health centers and hospitals can be found in district headquarters.
• Restrooms: Public restrooms are available at major tourist spots; carry hand sanitizer and tissues.

Make your visit to Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary comfortable and hassle-free with these practical visitor tips for Gujarat.

Map & location view

Hingolgadh Nature Education Sanctuary is located in the vibrant state of Gujarat, India. The destination is accessible by road and is well-connected to major cities and towns in the region, making it a convenient addition to any Gujarat travel itinerary.

How to reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is connected to major Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Vadodara with regular domestic flights.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is connected to the Indian railway network with regular trains from major cities across India.
• By Road: State transport buses, private taxis, and self-drive options are available from nearby cities. Gujarat has a well-maintained network of state highways and national highways.

Use GPS navigation or local maps to find the exact location of this destination in Gujarat. The Gujarat Tourism website provides additional travel resources for visitors.