Panchmahal
On the eastern edge of Gujarat, is the district of Panchmahal. Given that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park in Panchmahal warrants special consideration.
Located 70 km from Vadodara, and 20 km from Champaner, the Jambughoda Wildlife Sanctuary is best combined when visiting these cities. The wildlife sanctuary consists of forested hills with teeming wildlife and avian species. Teak, mahua and bamboo thickets cover the length and breadth of the forest, which is occupied by wild boars, nilgais (blue bull), jackals, hyenas, barking deer, sloth bears, and chausinghas (four-horned antelope) and leopards. A camping experience in close proximity to the wildlife is the highlight of the forest. One can book ahead at the forest rest house near the Kada reservoir. The 130.38 sq km sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers.
The sanctuary was part of the princely state of Jambughoda before Independence. A number of tribal settlements used to be wedged in the middle of the jungle then. It was established in 1989, but the status of a wildlife sanctuary was given only in May 1990.
Champaner is 45 km from Vadodara, accessible by bus or private vehicles. Cars can be hired in Vadodara to drive to Champaner-Pavagadh, which is the best option if you want to combine the journey with other sites like Jambughoda.