The Sanctuary
The Jambughoda wildlife sanctuary, (spread over an area of 130 sq kms) was a part of the erstwhile princely state of Jambughoda before independence. The sanctuary was established in 1990 at the behest of the late Prime Minister of India, Mr. Rajiv Gandhi. Teak, Bamboo and Mahudo along with other indigenous trees form the major canopy of the forest.
The sanctuary harbors several wild animals, birds and flora, including plants and herbs of medicinal value. Apart from the panther and the four-horned antelope, the habitat is shared by other animals such as blue bulls, hyena, jackal wild boar and an occasional sloth bear.
In addition, the sanctuary is also home to a wide variety of snakes including cobra, krait, viper, rat snake, and python, and interesting birds such as the Paradise Fly Catcher, Golden Oriole, Tailorbird, Green Pigeon, Grey Partridge and over a hundred other species. During winters, the lakes close-by, attract migratory birds, such as Pin-tails, Comb Duck, Teals, and Brahminy. Eminent personalities like Dr. Salim Ali, the noted Ornithologist, research scholars like Dr. G M Oza and Dr. Tvisha Pandya and others have spent their valuable time studying plant bio-diversity and the habits of various birds and animals in their natural surroundings.
Glimpse into The Tribal Culture and Lifestyle
Most of the tribals living in and around Jambughoda are Rathwas and Nayaks. They are superstitious and God-fearing.
The entrance to their home is through a richly carved wooden door with figurines and tribal icons. The walls of the front verandah of some houses is usually decorated with Pithora paintings. The tribals do not live in hamlets. Their dwellings are separated from each other by a considerable distance.
Haat is a weekly market place to which the tribal from the surrounding areas bring their hand-made products such as earthenware, Bamboo Products, rudimentary farm implements and farm produce to sell or barter. Apart from these products, there is very active and noisy haggling over fowl, goats, and bullocks.
During Holi week
Bhagoria
Bhagoria is a time when the Haats are more colourful and wear a festive look. Men and women from Tribal communities dress up traditionally and wear silver jewellery and come to the market to do their purchases for Holi, catch up with one another. The younger lot look for their future life partners too. Bhagoria begins a week before Holi.
Kavant Gher
Kavant Gher takes place two days after Dhuleti. Kavant is a tribal town 55 kms from Jambughoda. ‘Gher’ means a fair. It is a fair where hundreds of tribal people visit. You will find tribal dance groups performing in the lanes of the town.They paint themselves, wear peacock feathers on their heads, bells around their waists and carry musical instruments like drums, flutes etc.
It is a photographer’s delight to witness this celebration.
Explore places near Jambughoda
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of our heritage, where history whispers through ancient stones. Discover nature’s splendor around every corner, inviting you to experience beauty like never before!
Champaner - Gujarat’s First World Heritage Site
Champaner exhibits some of the finest examples of fusion architecture, sculpted by mellifluous architects from different cultures.
Pavagadh
Pavagadh is a historic hill fortress in Gujarat, renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. At its summit lies the revered Temple of Maa Kali, a significant pilgrimage site that attracts devotees from far and wide. The blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance makes Pavagadh a captivating destination for visitors.
Dabhoi
Dabhoi finds its reference in one of the astronomical treatise of the sixth century A.D and is a pilgrim center.
Wadhwana Bird Sanctuary
Attracts innumerable species of indigenous and migratory birds in the winters. A must-visit for those interested in bird-watching.
Sukhi Dam
Know the earth, feel the breeze, trudge through the rocky terrain and explore for yourself all of this at the Sukhi Dam, known for rock climbing.
Statue of Unity
The Statue of Unity is a colossal statue of Indian statesman and independence activist Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.