Places To Visit in Palanpur – Top Places, Travel Guide

Looking for a memorable vacation destination that combines natural beauty with rich cultural heritage? Look no further than Palanpur!

Nestled in the heart of Gujarat, Palanpur is a hidden gem that offers an array of top sights and tourist places for you to explore. From stunning natural landscapes to historic temples and monuments, Palanpur has it all.

Take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of the Balaram Palace, a stunning heritage hotel that was once the residence of the royal family of Palanpur. Marvel at the intricate architecture of the Keerti Stambh Victory Tower, a stunning example of Jain temple design that stands at an impressive 75 feet tall.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary is a must. This unique conservation area is home to a variety of endangered species, including the sloth bear, leopard, and jungle cat. And don’t forget to take a hike through the stunning Aravalli Range, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

With so much to see and do, Palanpur is the perfect destination for your next vacation. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and discover all that this amazing city has to offer!

About Palanpur

Palanpur is a city located in the state of Gujarat, India. It is the administrative headquarters of the Banaskantha district and is situated at the foothills of the Aravalli Range. The city is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historic significance.

The history of Palanpur dates back to the 14th century when it was ruled by the Palanpur State, a princely state under the British Raj. The state was ruled by the Nawabs of Palanpur, who were descendants of the Sunni Muslim community of Vohra. During their reign, they played an important role in the development and modernization of the city, establishing several educational institutions and contributing to the growth of agriculture and commerce.

Palanpur played a significant role in the Indian independence movement, with several freedom fighters and leaders hailing from the city. In 1947, Palanpur was integrated into the Indian Union as part of the state of Bombay. Following the reorganization of states in 1960, it became part of Gujarat.

Today, Palanpur is a bustling city that has retained its rich cultural heritage while embracing modernity. It is home to several historic temples, palaces, and monuments, as well as modern amenities such as shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels. The city attracts tourists from all over the world who come to explore its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historic significance.

Architecture of Palanpur

Palanpur is known for its diverse and rich architectural heritage, which reflects the city’s cultural and historical significance. The architecture of Palanpur is a unique blend of various styles, including Mughal, British colonial, and traditional Gujarati architecture.

One of the most prominent architectural landmarks in Palanpur is the Balaram Palace, a stunning heritage hotel that was once the residence of the royal family of Palanpur. The palace features a blend of colonial and Indian architectural styles, with intricately carved stone pillars, decorative arches, and beautiful gardens.

Palanpur is also home to several historic temples that feature stunning architectural elements. The Keerti Stambh Victory Tower, a Jain temple, is a beautiful example of traditional Jain temple design, featuring intricate carvings and stunning architecture. The Somnath Mahadev Temple is another important religious site that features beautiful stone carvings and intricate architecture.

The architecture of Palanpur also includes several colonial-era buildings, including the Banaskantha District Collectorate and the Banaskantha District Court, which feature beautiful arches, pillars, and facades. The city also has several modern buildings that showcase contemporary architectural styles.

Overall, the architecture of Palanpur is a reflection of the city’s rich cultural heritage and history. Its diverse styles and influences make it a unique and fascinating destination for visitors who appreciate architecture and history.

Places to Visit in Palanpur

1. Balaram Palace: A stunning heritage hotel that was once the residence of the royal family of Palanpur. The palace features beautiful gardens, intricate architecture, and a museum that displays the history of the city.
2. Keerti Stambh Victory Tower: A Jain temple that features beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Somnath Mahadev Temple: An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that features stunning stone carvings and intricate architecture.
4. Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary: A unique conservation area that is home to several endangered species, including sloth bears, leopards, and jungle cats.
5. Polo Forest: A beautiful forest area that features several hiking trails, picnic spots, and scenic views of the Aravalli Range.
6. Abu Road: A nearby town that is home to several important religious sites, including the Dilwara Temples and the Ambaji Temple.
7. Banaskantha District Collectorate: A colonial-era building that features beautiful architecture and is now used as a government office.
8. Banaskantha District Court: Another colonial-era building that features beautiful architecture and is still used as a court.

These are just a few of the many places to visit in Palanpur. The city is full of historical, cultural, and natural attractions that offer something for everyone.

Weather and Best Time to Visit Palanpur

Palanpur has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Palanpur is from October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

During the winter months of December and January, the temperature can drop down to 10°C (50°F) in the night, so it’s recommended to carry warm clothes. The monsoon season from July to September brings moderate to heavy rainfall, making it unsuitable for outdoor activities.

The summer months from March to June can be very hot, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C (104°F), making it less comfortable for sightseeing. However, if you’re visiting during this time, it’s recommended to carry light and airy clothes and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Overall, the best time to visit Palanpur is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring the city’s historic temples, palaces, and natural beauty.

How To Reach Palanpur

Palanpur is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air. Here are the different ways to reach Palanpur:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Palanpur is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad, which is about 135 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Palanpur.
2. By Train: Palanpur has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. Several trains stop at Palanpur railway station, making it easy to reach the city by train.
3. By Road: Palanpur is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and neighboring states by road. There are several state-run and private buses that operate from Palanpur bus station to major cities, including Ahmedabad, Vadodara, and Jaipur. You can also hire a taxi or drive your own car to reach Palanpur.

Once you reach Palanpur, you can easily explore the city and nearby areas by hiring a taxi or using public transport. The city is well-connected to nearby tourist destinations like Mount Abu, Ambaji, and Mehsana, making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

Accommodation Options in Palanpur

Palanpur offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the popular accommodation options in Palanpur:

1. Balaram Palace Resort: This heritage hotel is the most popular accommodation option in Palanpur. It features beautifully appointed rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves delicious Indian and international cuisine.
2. Hotel Shalimar: This mid-range hotel offers comfortable and affordable rooms, a restaurant, and a conference room for business travelers.
3. The Divine Resort: This is a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.
4. The Grand Regency Hotel: This is a luxurious hotel that offers beautifully designed rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant that serves delicious food.
5. Hotel Palace Plaza: This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.
6. The Hues Boutique Hotel: This is a new hotel that offers beautifully designed rooms and suites, a restaurant, and a conference room for business travelers.

Overall, Palanpur offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, making it a comfortable and convenient destination for tourists.

Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Palanpur As per users Reviews and Ratings

As an AI language model, I do not have access to the latest user reviews and ratings for hotels in Palanpur. However, based on the past feedback, here is a brief on the top 10 hotels to stay in Palanpur:

1. Balaram Palace Resort: A luxurious heritage hotel with beautifully appointed rooms and suites, excellent service, and top-notch amenities.
2. The Grand Regency Hotel: A luxurious hotel that offers beautifully designed rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant that serves delicious food.
3. Hotel Shalimar: A mid-range hotel that offers comfortable and affordable rooms, a restaurant, and a conference room for business travelers.
4. Hotel Palace Plaza: A mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.
5. The Divine Resort: A budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.
6. The Hues Boutique Hotel: A new hotel that offers beautifully designed rooms and suites, a restaurant, and a conference room for business travelers.
7. Hotel Caravan: A budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.
8. Hotel Siddharth: A mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.
9. Hotel Jalaram Palace: A budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.
10. Hotel Shree Pal: A budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and basic amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking.

It’s always a good idea to check the latest user reviews and ratings before booking a hotel to ensure that you choose the best one that fits your needs and budget.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Palanpur

If you are planning a trip to Palanpur, here are some useful travel tips to keep in mind before you go:

1. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Palanpur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
2. Weather conditions: Palanpur experiences hot and dry summers with temperatures reaching up to 42°C. Winters are mild with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. Monsoons are humid with moderate to heavy rainfall.
3. Clothing: Light cotton clothing is recommended during summers, while warmer clothes are needed during winters. It’s a good idea to carry a raincoat or umbrella during monsoons.
4. Local customs: Palanpur is a traditional city, and visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
5. Language: Gujarati is the primary language spoken in Palanpur, although Hindi and English are also widely understood.
6. Food: Palanpur offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine, including local Gujarati cuisine. Be sure to try out the local delicacies like dhokla, thepla, and khaman.
7. Safety: Palanpur is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to take precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and not carrying large sums of money or valuable items.
8. Transportation: Palanpur has a good transportation system, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. It’s advisable to use authorized taxis or pre-paid taxi services for safety and convenience.
9. Currency: The Indian rupee is the local currency in Palanpur, and most establishments accept credit/debit cards. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and emergencies.
10. Medical facilities: Palanpur has several hospitals and clinics that provide medical services. It’s advisable to carry necessary medications and consult a doctor before traveling if you have any medical conditions.

Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Palanpur

Here are some travel mistakes to avoid while visiting Palanpur:

1. Not planning ahead: Palanpur is a popular tourist destination, and during peak season, hotels and other travel services can get booked up quickly. It’s important to plan ahead and make reservations for accommodation, transportation, and activities to avoid disappointment.
2. Ignoring local customs and etiquette: Palanpur is a traditional city, and it’s important to respect local customs and etiquette. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and be aware of local customs such as removing your shoes before entering a temple.
3. Not carrying enough cash: While most establishments in Palanpur accept credit/debit cards, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and emergencies. ATMs are not always readily available, especially in rural areas.
4. Not trying local cuisine: Palanpur has a rich culinary heritage, and not trying the local cuisine is a mistake. Be sure to try out local delicacies like dhokla, thepla, and khaman.
5. Overpacking: It’s easy to overpack for a trip, but it’s important to pack light and carry only essential items. Palanpur is a hot and humid city, so pack light cotton clothes and comfortable footwear.
6. Not carrying sunscreen and insect repellent: Palanpur experiences hot and dry weather, and it’s important to carry sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. Insect repellent is also essential to avoid mosquito bites, especially during monsoon season.
7. Not carrying a map: Palanpur is a big city, and it’s easy to get lost without a map. Be sure to carry a map or download a GPS app on your phone to navigate the city easily.
8. Not bargaining: Bargaining is a common practice in Palanpur, especially at street markets and bazaars. Not bargaining could result in overpaying for goods and services.
9. Not carrying a first aid kit: Accidents can happen anywhere, and it’s important to carry a first aid kit with basic medicines, bandages, and antiseptics.
10. Not respecting the environment: Palanpur is a beautiful city with rich flora and fauna, and it’s important to respect the environment. Avoid littering and follow responsible tourism practices to protect the environment.

Best Places for Shopping in Palanpur

Palanpur offers a variety of shopping options, including local markets, shopping malls, and street-side vendors. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Palanpur:

1. Sejal Plaza: Sejal Plaza is a popular shopping mall in Palanpur, offering a wide range of local and international brands. It’s a great place to shop for clothing, accessories, and electronics.
2. Palanpur Market: Palanpur Market is a bustling local market that offers a wide range of traditional Gujarati handicrafts, clothing, and accessories. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and gifts.
3. Bazaar Street: Bazaar Street is a popular street market in Palanpur that offers a variety of goods, including clothing, jewelry, and household items. It’s a great place to bargain and shop for local goods.
4. Sahaj Super Store: Sahaj Super Store is a one-stop-shop for all your grocery needs. It offers a wide range of organic and local produce, as well as household items and personal care products.
5. Palanpur Central: Palanpur Central is a popular department store that offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, and electronics. It’s a great place to shop for the latest fashion trends and accessories.
6. Shilpgram: Shilpgram is a handicrafts village that showcases traditional handicrafts and artwork from Gujarat. It’s a great place to shop for unique and authentic handicrafts.
7. City Light Shopping Center: City Light Shopping Center is a popular shopping destination that offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, and electronics. It’s a great place to shop for the latest fashion trends and accessories.
8. MG Road: MG Road is a popular street market that offers a variety of goods, including clothing, jewelry, and household items. It’s a great place to bargain and shop for local goods.
9. Jalaram Shopping Center: Jalaram Shopping Center is a popular shopping destination that offers a wide range of clothing, accessories, and electronics. It’s a great place to shop for the latest fashion trends and accessories.
10. Palanpur Textile Market: Palanpur Textile Market is a popular market that specializes in textiles and fabrics. It offers a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, silk, and wool, as well as embroidery and lacework. It’s a great place to shop for traditional Gujarati textiles.

Food To Eat in Palanpur

Palanpur is famous for its delicious and spicy Gujarati cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes when you are in Palanpur:

1. Dhokla: Dhokla is a popular Gujarati snack made from fermented batter of rice and split chickpeas. It is steamed and served with chutney or fried green chillies.
2. Khandvi: Khandvi is another popular Gujarati snack made from a mixture of gram flour and yoghurt, which is then rolled and garnished with grated coconut, coriander leaves, and mustard seeds.
3. Fafda: Fafda is a crispy snack made from gram flour and is usually served with hot chilli chutney.
4. Undhiyu: Undhiyu is a traditional Gujarati dish made with a variety of seasonal vegetables like potatoes, yams, beans, and eggplant. It is slow-cooked in an earthen pot and served hot with puri or roti.
5. Thepla: Thepla is a popular Gujarati flatbread made with wheat flour, gram flour, and spices like cumin and coriander. It is usually served with pickle or yoghurt.
6. Dal Dhokli: Dal Dhokli is a popular one-pot meal made from wheat flour and lentils. It is cooked in a spicy lentil-based gravy and is a complete meal in itself.
7. Handvo: Handvo is a savoury cake made from rice flour and lentils. It is usually steamed or baked and is served with chutney or yoghurt.
8. Kadhi: Kadhi is a Gujarati version of a spiced buttermilk soup that is typically served with steamed rice.
9. Shrikhand: Shrikhand is a popular dessert made from strained yoghurt mixed with sugar, saffron, and cardamom. It is a sweet and creamy dessert that is usually served chilled.
10. Aamras: Aamras is a popular dessert made from ripe mango pulp that is usually served with puri or as a side dish. It is a sweet and tangy dessert that is popular in Gujarat during the mango season.

Things You Can Buy as a Tourist

Palanpur is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts. Here are some of the things you can buy as a tourist in Palanpur:

1. Bandhani textiles: Bandhani or tie-dye textiles are popular in Gujarat, and Palanpur is no exception. You can find a range of bandhani fabrics, including sarees, dupattas, and dress materials.
2. Handicrafts: Palanpur is famous for its handicrafts, which are made by local artisans. You can find a range of handicrafts, including woodcarvings, clay pottery, and metalwork.
3. Silver jewelry: Palanpur is known for its silver jewelry, which is intricately designed and crafted by skilled artisans.
4. Traditional Gujarati attire: You can buy traditional Gujarati attire, including chaniya choli, sarees, and salwar suits in Palanpur.
5. Embroidered fabrics: Palanpur is famous for its embroidered fabrics, which are made using intricate designs and patterns.
6. Leather items: You can also find leather items, including bags, belts, and shoes, in Palanpur.
7. Spices: Palanpur is also known for its spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric. You can buy these spices in bulk at the local markets.
8. Handmade paper products: You can find handmade paper products, including journals, notebooks, and greeting cards, in Palanpur.
9. Tribal art: Palanpur is home to several tribal communities, and you can find a range of tribal art and handicrafts, including paintings and sculptures.
10. Textile printing: Palanpur is known for its traditional textile printing techniques, including block printing and screen printing. You can find a range of printed fabrics in Palanpur, including sarees and dress materials.

Nightlife in Palanpur

Palanpur is a small city in Gujarat, and the nightlife scene is not very vibrant. However, there are a few places where you can enjoy a night out in Palanpur:

1. Local restaurants: There are several local restaurants in Palanpur that serve delicious Gujarati cuisine. You can enjoy a nice dinner with your friends or family and experience the local culture.
2. Cafes: There are a few cafes in Palanpur that stay open late at night. You can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and spend some time with your friends.
3. Movie theaters: Palanpur has a few movie theaters where you can catch the latest Bollywood or Gujarati movies.
4. Religious places: Palanpur is home to several temples and other religious places. You can visit these places at night and experience the peaceful atmosphere.
5. Shopping: Palanpur has a few markets that stay open late at night. You can shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and other items.

Overall, the nightlife scene in Palanpur is not very happening, but you can still enjoy a quiet evening out with your friends or family. It is advisable to respect the local culture and customs while enjoying the nightlife in Palanpur.

Activities and Things to Do in Palanpur

Palanpur, a beautiful city in Gujarat, has a lot to offer for tourists. Here are some activities and things to do in Palanpur:

1. Visit Balaram Palace: The Balaram Palace is a beautiful palace built in the colonial style. It is surrounded by lush green gardens and is a perfect place to spend an afternoon.
2. Explore Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary: Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary that is home to several species of animals, including sloth bears, leopards, and deer. You can take a safari and explore the wildlife.
3. Visit the Keerti Stambh Victory Tower: The Keerti Stambh Victory Tower is a beautiful tower that was built to commemorate a local king’s victory. The tower has several beautiful carvings and is a great place to learn about the local history.
4. Go on a heritage walk: Palanpur has a rich cultural heritage, and you can explore it by going on a heritage walk. You can visit local temples, palaces, and other historical landmarks.
5. Shop for handicrafts: Palanpur is famous for its handicrafts, including woodcarvings, clay pottery, and metalwork. You can shop for these items and take back souvenirs.
6. Visit the Ambaji Temple: The Ambaji Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Ambaji. It is located in the nearby town of Ambaji and is a great place to experience the local culture.
7. Attend local festivals: Palanpur has several festivals throughout the year, including Navratri and Diwali. You can attend these festivals and experience the local culture and customs.
8. Explore the local cuisine: Palanpur has a rich culinary tradition, and you can explore it by trying out local delicacies like dhokla, khandvi, and fafda.

Overall, Palanpur has a lot to offer for tourists, and you can have a great time exploring the city and its surroundings.

Lesser Known Facts About Palanpur

Palanpur is a city in Gujarat with a rich cultural heritage and a fascinating history. Here are some lesser-known facts about Palanpur:

1. Palanpur was once a princely state: Palanpur was ruled by the Nawabs of Palanpur, who were a Muslim dynasty that held power from the early 18th century until the mid-20th century.
2. Palanpur is home to several historical landmarks: Palanpur is home to several historical landmarks, including the Balaram Palace, the Keerti Stambh Victory Tower, and the Kedarnath Mahadev Temple.
3. Palanpur is a major center for textile production: Palanpur is known for its textile production, especially for its handwoven fabrics and saris. The city has several textile mills and is a major center for textile trade.
4. Palanpur is home to several wildlife sanctuaries: Palanpur is surrounded by several wildlife sanctuaries, including the Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary and the Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary.
5. Palanpur has a rich culinary tradition: Palanpur has a rich culinary tradition, and the local cuisine is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes. Some of the popular dishes in Palanpur include dhokla, khandvi, and fafda.
6. Palanpur is a major center for handicrafts: Palanpur is known for its handicrafts, including woodcarvings, clay pottery, and metalwork. These handicrafts are famous for their intricate designs and patterns.
7. Palanpur has a rich cultural heritage: Palanpur has a rich cultural heritage, and the city is known for its festivals, including Navratri and Diwali. The city also has several temples and other religious landmarks.

Overall, Palanpur is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the city’s historical landmarks, indulge in the local cuisine, and shop for handicrafts.

FAQ About Palanpur

Q: What is Palanpur known for?

A: Palanpur is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, handicrafts, and textile production.

Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Palanpur?

A: Some popular tourist attractions in Palanpur include the Balaram Palace, the Keerti Stambh Victory Tower, the Kedarnath Mahadev Temple, and the Jessore Sloth Bear Sanctuary.

Q: What is the best time to visit Palanpur?

A: The best time to visit Palanpur is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.

Q: How do I reach Palanpur?

A: Palanpur is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is in Ahmedabad, which is about 130 km away from Palanpur. The city also has a railway station that connects it to major cities in India.

Q: What are some popular dishes in Palanpur?

A: Some popular dishes in Palanpur include dhokla, khandvi, fafda, and other spicy and flavorful dishes.

Q: What are some good accommodation options in Palanpur?

A: Palanpur has several good accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Balaram Palace Resort, the Lajwanti Resort, and the Hotel President.

Q: What are some lesser-known facts about Palanpur?

A: Some lesser-known facts about Palanpur include its rich culinary tradition, its status as a major center for handicrafts, and its historical landmarks and wildlife sanctuaries.

Q: What should I know before traveling to Palanpur?

A: Before traveling to Palanpur, you should be aware of the local culture and customs, the weather conditions, and the available transportation options. It is also a good idea to carry sufficient cash and to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and security.