Banaskantha - 5 Attractions You Must Visit

This is a census town in the Banaskantha district. It is known for its historical and mythological connections with sites of cultural heritage. Ambaji is an important temple town with millions of devotees visiting the Ambaji temple every year. It is one of the 51 Shakti peethas.

The sacred temple of Balram Mahadev is situated about 12 kms from the district head quater palanpur. The palaces of the Nawab and Hindu Temples are also worth seeing. Balaram Mahadev Temple situated in right hand turn about 10-15 KM from Palanpur towards Abu road, and this place is just 1-2 km away from there. The Shiva temple is said to be 5000 years old of the Mahabharata times. It is said that Pandavas also have visited this place and have stayed here for some time.

Balaram Palace is a palace situated on the bank of the Balram river. It is now converted into a hotel. Palace was built during 1922 to 1936 by Sir Tale Muhammad Khan, 29th Nawab of Palanpur state.

Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary is situated in the Banaskantha district, 45 kms. from Palanpur. Declared as Wildlife Sanctuary in May 1978, this 180.66 sq.km. forest tract of Jessore hill and adjoining areas is endowed with several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. The forests of the sanctuary play an important role in the conservation of the depleting Aravali ecosystem. This area act as a buffer and separates the desert ecosystem from the dry deciduous type of ecosystem.

Kirti Stambh, a tall pillar constructed near the railway station in 1918 by Nawab Shri Taley Mohammed Khan to commemorate the gallantry of Shri Sher Mohammed Khan. it is a sturdy symbol of the city's glory, and provides a record of Palanpur's evolution, with the list of the rulers of Jhalore and Palanpur being engraved on it. The Kirti Stambh was inaugurated by the great General Sir Gangasinghji, the Maharaja of Bikaner.