Cultural Forests

Sanskritik Van
(A Unique System of Celebrating Van Mahotsav)

GUJARAT FOREST DEPARTMENT

Sanskritik Van
Indian cultural scriptures like Vedas, purans, upanishadas etc. are reflecting the relations between human beings
and trees. For thousands of years, Indian culture has accorded a position of great importance to trees. In ancient
times, our forefathers lived in co-existence of nature. They have recognized the high importance of plants for
health, wealth and prosperity of human life, so they were worshiping trees. At present, most of our religious
festivals include worship of trees.
People have great regards for astrology and Ayurvedic system of medicine. It is universally known that these
medicines are prepared from fruits, flowers, barks, leaves and roots of trees and herbs. Some trees are also
believed to have positive effects on human life, besides warding off evil influences.
Modern scientific thought may be disinclined to believe such influences of these plants. Nevertheless, the fact
remains that most of these are versatile trees and their plantation not only contributes towards the environment
improvement but also appeals to the sentiments of the people who still respect and follow the age-old traditions
and rituals of India.
Such plantations, which are planned according to the various Indian traditions, have collectively come to be
known as Sanskritik Van and are known by the traditions they follow. The first six pages of the booklet described
the various components of “Sanskritik Van” and the subsequent pages detail the various Sanskritik Vans created
during the past fourteen years.
1. Navgraha Van
Indian astrology claims a definite correlation between plants and
Navagrahas - the 8 planets and the Sun at the centre. These planets are
supposed to influence different organs in the body either in positive or
negative manner and may result in diseases due to evil effects. Different
plants have been prescribed for usage to overcome the ailments. Such
plants are thus associated with the planets and are believed to have
medicinal properties for treating the diseases. A Navgraha Van would
thus typically include plants associated with each of the navgrahas, viz.

1. Budh Achyranthes aspera (Chichida) 2. Shukra Ficus glomerata (Gular)

3. Chandra Butea monosperma (Palas) 4. Guru Ficus religiosa (Pipal)
5. Surya Calotropis procera (Aak) 6. Mangal Acacia catechu (Khair)
7. Ketu Saccharum spontaneum (Darbhe) 8. Shani Acacia ferruginea (Shami)
9. Rahu Cynodon dactylon (Doob)

2. Nakshatra Van
Constellations are groups of stars which appear to be fixed in the sky. The
Hindu Panchanga assigns a separate tree for each of the 27 constellations
(Nakshatras) through which the Sun passes. It is believed that celestial
bodies like the Sun and the Moon exert different influences on human
beings when they are transiting through these 27 constellations. It is also
believed that such effects can be moderated or enhanced by planting and
worshipping trees assigned to each constellation. This collection of trees
planted in the correct order constitutes a Nakshatra Van.
1. Ashwini Strychnos nuxvomica 2. Bharni Emblica officinalis
3. Kritika Ficus glomerata 4. Rohini Syzygium cumini
5. Mrigshira Acacia catechu 6. Ardra Aquilaria agalocha
7. Punarvasu Dendrocalamus strictus 8. Pushya Ficus religiosa
9. Ashlesha Mesua ferrea 10. Magha Ficus benghalensis
11. Purva Falguni Butea monosperma 12. Uttara Falguni Ficus rumphii
13. Hasta Jasminium auriculatum 14. Chitra Aegle marmelos
15. Swati Terminalia arjuna 16. Vishakha Mesua ferrea
17. Anuradha Mesua ferrea 18. Jyestha Bombax ceiba
19. Moola Vateria indica 20. Poorvashada Calamus spp.
21. Uttarashada Artocarpus heterophyllus 22. Shravana Calotropis gigantea
23. Dhanishtha Prosopis spicigera 24. Saiabhisha Anthocephalus cadamba
25. Poorva Bhadrapada Mangifera indica 26. Uttara Bhadrapada Azadirachta indica
27. Revati Madhuca latifolia

3. Rashi Van
The 27 constellations are further grouped into 12
Zodiac signs. Astrology groups human beings into
these Zodiacs. The Zodiacs play a vital role in the lives
of human beings and any astrological prediction starts
from the zodiac sign of a person. Indian Astrology has
assigned specific trees for specific zodiac signs.
4. Panchvati
A group of five holy trees, namely, Vad (Ficus benghalensis), Pipal (Ficus
religiosa), Bilva or Billi (Aegle marmelos), Amla (Emblica officinalis) and Ashok
(Saraca indica) is called Panchvati. The numbers of the trees are specified:
Vad (4), Pipal (4), Ashok (25), Bilva (4) and Amla (2) for creating Panchvati. Vad
gives shade, Pipal produces vast amounts of oxygen, Bilva is offered to Shiva,
Amla has significant medicinal properties and Ashok drives away sorrows.
It is, therefore, believed that Panchvati is good for overall well-being of the
mankind.

5. Tirthankar Van
The 24 Tirthankars of Jainism were enlightened with eternal knowledge under various
trees. These trees are known as “Kevali Vriksha”. It is believed that planting of these
trees brings blessings of the Tirthankaras. The design of this Van is based on the ‘Kalpa
Vriksha” yantra, where the trees associated with the Tirthankars are planted.
1. Sri Rushabhdev Swami Ficus benghalensis
2. Sri Ajitnath Swami Alstonia scholaris
3. Sri Sambhavnath Swami Shorea robusta
4. Sri Abhinandan Swami Buchanania lanzan
5. Sri Sumatinath Swami Callicarpa macrophylla
6. Sri Padmaprabha Swami Ficus benghalensis
7. Sri Suparshvanath Swami Albizia lebbeck
8. Sri Chandraprabh Swami Calophyllum inophyllum
9. Sri Suvidhinath Swami Aegle marmelos
10. Sri Shitalnath Swami Ficus lacor
11. Sri Sreyanshnath Swami Saraca indica
12. Sri Vasupujya Swami Symplocos racemosa
13. Sri Vimalnath Swami Syzygium cumini
14. Sri Anantnath Swami Saraca indica
15. Sri Dharmnath Swami Butea monosperma
16. Sri Shantinath Swami Cedrus deodara
17. Sri Kunthunath Swami Symplocos racemosa
18. Sri Arnath Swami Mangifera indica
19. Sri Mallinath Swami Saraca indica
20. Sri Munisuvrat Swami Michelia champaca
21. Sri Naminath Swami Mimusops elengi
22. Sri Neminath Swami Salix caprea
23. Sri Parshvanath Swami Woodfordia fruticosa
24. Sri Mahavir Swami Shorea robusta

6. Saptarshi Van
In the Indian mythology, according to Sapta Brahamana, the seven stars in the constellation Ursa Major, are
associated with the seven major Indian saints and the constellation is known as Saptarshi (the seven rishis)
- Kashyap, Atri, Bhardwaj, Jamdagni, Vishwamitra, Vashistha and Gautama. The trees identified with these
seven saints constitute the Saptarshi Van. These are Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi), Sesbania grandiflora (Agastya),
Achyranthes aspera (Chidchida), Cynodon dactylon (Doob), Aegle marmelos (Bilva), Prosopis cineraria (Shami),
and Datura metel (Dhatura) respectively.
7. Shriparni Van
In Hindu mythology, the goddess Laxmi resides in Shriparni
(Gmelina arborea) - a common tree found throughout India.
It is believed that this tree creates a divine environment.
Therefore, Laxmi resides in such a place with Lord Vishnu
bringing in peace, happiness and prosperity for the
worshippers and the people who raise such trees.

8. Arogya Van (Charak Van)

A number of medicinal plants are prescribed by the ancient scriptures for treating different ailments affecting
different organs in the human body. Arogya Van or Charak Van is a representation of these medicinal plants.
Some of the important medicinal plants are: Brahmi (Centella asiatica), Amla (Emblica officinalis), Arjun
(Terminalia arjuna), Harde (Terminalia chebula), Baheda (Terminalia belluca), Kariatu (Andrographis echioides),
Satavari (Asparagus dumosus), Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia sepentina), etc.
Objectives of establishing Sanskritic Vans or Cultural Forests
♦♦ To increase active participation of the people for Increasing tree cover.
♦♦ To create awareness among people about religious & medicinal plants.
♦♦ To improve bio-diversity & environment.
♦♦ To develop cultural sites.
♦♦ To generate employment.
♦♦ To make people acquainted with our ancient culture.
♦♦ To connect people with tree plantation & protection
♦♦ To strengthen our cultural & traditional values for protecting trees.
The Gujarat Initiative
In a major initiative to boost tree plantation and improve the ecology of the State, the Government of Gujarat
has embarked upon an ambitious drive since the year 2004. This initiative not only aims at tree plantation
but, more importantly, at involving the people of Gujarat by introducing them to different plants and trees
through various types of Sanskritik Vans discussed earlier, and through them to the ancient Indian traditions
both mythological and medicinal. The Sanskritic Vans are established at 16 different sites up to year 2017.
It has been decided to celebrate 69th State level Van Mahotsav at Rudramata Dam, Ta. Bhuj, Dist.: Kutch, during
year 2018. The Sanskritic Van named ‘‘RAKSHAK VAN’’will be opened to the people by Hon’ble Chief Minister,
during this celebration.
The series of Sankritik Vans formed in Gujarat, as a part of State Level Van Mahotsav celebration, are described
in this booklet.
1. “Punit Van” at Gandhinagar
In 2004, with the inspiration of Mr. Narendra Modi,
Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat State, this idea
was conceived at Gandhinagar Van Mahotsav and
executed in the shape of the Punit Van. The Punit Van
is a synthesis of Panchvati, Nakshatra Van, Rashi Van,
Navgraha Van, and Arogya (Charak) Van. A Bilva Van in
the shape of a Shivling has also been included. The Punit
Van is, however, not merely a botanical collection; it is a
modern park with all the amenities for people of every
age. It has a joggers’ track, an amphitheatre, a resting
place (van kutir), and a fountain besides the usual civic
amenities. On the whole, this Punit Van is integration of
ancient culture and faith with plantation of trees, making
it a unique centre. It is also a crucial hub of tourism for
Gandhinagar. Over a period, this site turned a tourist
cum entertainment park. The area of Punit Van is 6 ha.

The Punit Van was inaugurated on 06-07-2004 by

the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Gujarat State and was
subsequently opened to public.
2. “Mangalya Van” at Ambaji
With inspiration from Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri
Narendra Modi during the year 2005, an innovative
approach, first time in the history of Van Mahotsav in
Gujarat was adopted to deviate from the practice of
holding the Van Mahotsav at Gandhinagar, the State
Capital. The emphasis is to organize the Van Mahotsav
functions at different Districts in the State to involve
more and more people in tree planting. The year also
witnessed the establishment of the Mangalya Van at
Ambaji located 179 kms from Ahmedabad on the Arasur
hill in the Aravali Range in Banaskantha district. More
than 60 lakhs pilgrims visit Ambaji every year. It is one
of the 64 Shakthipiths, where pieces of the body of
Sathi, Shiva’s consort fell. The Mangalya Van has
Navgraha Van, Rashi Van, Om Vatika and water pond
in an area of 3.5 ha. The most interesting feature of
the Mangalya Van is the Nav Dampati Van - plantation
of trees carried out exclusively by 501 newly-weds in
the traditional Gujarati attire on 17th July 2005. The “Om
Vatika” is a gigantic created with differently coloured
foliage plants. The usual amenities for people are also
available.
After eight years since its establishment, the site turned an
important tourist spot in Gujarat. A large number of people
visit the site and learn about our tradition of conserving
trees. Mangalya Van was opened to public during 56th Van
Mahotsav celebration on 17-07-2005.
3. “Tirthankar Van” at Taranga
Taranga (Taranga Tirtha) is a Jain pilgrimage center, 120
kms from Ahmedabad, in Mehsana district of Gujarat,
where an exquisite temple was built by the Solanki
dynasty king Kumarpal in 1121 AD. Old temple of lord
Ajitnathaji is a heritage site. It has excellent carving in
architecture. Lakhs of pilgrims visit this place every year.
Thus, Taranga assumes special importance as a holy
pilgrimage centre and a tourist centre. Keeping in view
the significance of the centre for the followers of Jainism,
a Tirthankar Van was set up in the year 2006. This ‘Van’
is planned in the typical design of Kalpa Vruksha Yantra.
The Tirthankar Van also has Nakshatra Van, Navgraha
Van, Rashi Van and Sriparni Van.
Taranga hill is located in the western end of the Aravallis
and it is south-west of Sabarmati. The rocky hills covered
by Anogeissus forest form a hilly landscape. It is also the
site for a Nature Education Camp. Tirthankar Van add
educational value to the site. Area of Tirthankar Van is
5.4 ha.
Tirthankar Van was opened to public by the Hon’ble
Chief Minister during 57th Van Mahotsav celebration on
13-07-2006.
4. “Harihar Van” at Somnath
The temple of Somnath is one of the oldest holy places
in India as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva. It is
situated on the western coast of India at Somnath of
Junagadh District in Gujarat State. More than 50 lakhs
tourists are visiting every year. The year 2007 saw the
establishment of the Harihar Van at Somnath. A number
of new ideas have been included in the Harihar Van at
Somnath, e.g. Panch Valkal Van, Shiva Panchayatan
Van, Hari Shankari Van, Saptarshi Van, Rudraksha Van,
Jyotirlinga Van, Golok Dham Van and Harihar Van. With
experience and growing confidence, the people of
Gujarat are confident of transforming their state into a
model of ecological restoration in consonance with its
overall development. Area of Harihar Van is 1.6 ha.

Harihar Van is at sea coast. Although it is small Sanskritik

Van but attract tourists due to its location near Somnath
temple. This cultural forest was opened to public on
23-07-2007 during the 58th State Level Van Mahotsav.
5. “Bhakti Van” at Chotila
Bhakti Van was developed in the year 2008, as a part
of 59th Van Mahotsav celebration. It was set up in the
foothills of Chotila in Surendranagar District, on National
Highway No. 8. It is 170 kms away from Ahmedabad.
The famous temple of “Chamunda Mataji” is located
here. More than 40 lakhs pilgrims visit this place every
year. The area is devided in to three parts (1) Tulsi Kund
(2) Bhakti Van (3) Punit Van. One seeding distribution
centre, Van kutir and fountain has been established
here. Ayurvedic species are raised in reference to Nirogi
Bal Varsh (Healthy Child Year).
At Chotila, it is now important site for tourists. Area of
Bhakti Van is 5.8 ha. Bhakti Van was opened to public
during 59th State Level Van Mahotsav celebration on
18-07-2008.
6. “Shyamal Van” at Shamlaji
60th Van Mahotsav was celebrated at “SHAMLAJI”
in Sabarkantha District of Gujarat State. Shamlaji is
situated on National Highway No.8 and 127 kms away
from Ahmedabad. The famous temple of “Lord Vishnu”
is located here. More than 30 Lakhs of tourists visit
Shamlaji every year.
The site is located between two hill series having coppice
forest cover. The forest at both site of the Shyamal Van
add aesthetic value to the site. People visiting Shamalji
temple do not miss to visit Shyamal Van.
Main entrance with carving, Dashavatar Van, Nakshtra
Van, Rashi Van, Dhanvantari Van, Dev Van, Smruti Van
and Grahvatika are established. Fountain, Lawn, Play
ground for children, Van Kutir (rest hut), Agro Forestry
Plot, Modern nursery, Bamboo plantation, Interpretation
centre, Tree museum are the highlights of the site. Area
of Shyamal Van is 6.3 ha.
Shyamal Van was opened to public by the Hon’ble
Chief Minister during Van Mahotsav celebration on
18-07-2009.
7. “Pawak Van” at Palitana
Palitana, a known religious site of Jains, is visited by
thousands of people from India and abroad. The State
Government decided to celebrate 61st Van Mahotsav
in 2010 by creating Pawak Van at Palitana by planting
trees having importance in the Jain religion. Pawak Van
was established and opened to the people in a function
which was inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Shri
Narendra Modi while celebrating State Level Van Mahotsav.
The objective of the Pawak Van is to develop a tourist spot
where people can learn about our tradition and culture
for preserving and protecting trees. An area of 7.4 ha
was fenced on Garjiya Road to established a wonderful
plantation where people enjoy while learning about the
importance of trees. In this area, Amrit Mahotsav Van,
Vihang Vatika, Rayan Van, Damara Vatika, Arogya Van,
Sushrut Van, Tirthankar Van, Rashi Van, Nakshatra Van,
Shetrunjay Van, Lotus pond, garden and children play area
have been created to attract visitors. A total of 95 species
of trees/plants have been planted in the Pawak Van. Vad,
Pipal, Pipado, Umaro, Rayan, Borsalli, Bel or Billi, Kadaya,
Khati amli, Peltroforum, Garmado or Amaltas, Gugad,
Kalam, Rukhado, Mahudo, Sisso, Neem, Bamboo etc have
been planted in the Pawak Van. Pawak Van was opened to
public on 30-07-2010.
A large number of people - about 45,000 participated in
a function in which Pawak Van was opened to people by
planting seedlings by the Hon’ble Chief Minister, Forest
Minister and other dignitaries.
8. “Virasat Van” at Pavagadh
“Virasat Van” is established in 6.50 ha. of areas at
Jepura-Pavagadh, Dist.: Panchmahals during State Level
Van Mahotsav celebration, in the year 2011. It is a
famous religious site of “Mahakali Mataji”. Pavagadh -
Champaner is important site with a historical, spiritual,
archaeological, geological point of view. UNESCO has
declared this site as a “World Heritage Site ” in the year
2004. In the background of this fact, it was decided to
establish Sanskritik Van at this place.
To involve more & more people with tree plantation,
this Sanskritik Van has been divided in to 7 themes
- (1) Anand Van (2) Arogya Van (3) Aradhya Van (4)
Sanskritik Van (5) Aajivika Van (6) Nisarg Van (7) Jaivik
Van. Besides this, attractive entrance, bridges, tanks,
fountain, van kutir, van kedi, play ground for children,
grass plot, cafeteria etc... are the highlights of this site.
A large number of tourists visit this cultural forests.
Virasat Van was opened to public by Hon’ble Chief
Minister during 62nd Van Mahotsav celebration on
31-7-2011.
9. “Govind Guru Smrutivan” at Mangadh
‘Jaliawaal Baug Massacre’ in Punjab has been written
in golden letters in the history of independence of our
country. But rarely anybody knows that earlier than this,
people more than Jaliawala had sacrificed their life at
Mangadh, 25 km from Santrampur at Rajasthan border. As
per the history of the site, the local “Bhil People” fought
against the injustice-tyranny of British Government, on
17th November 1913 under the leadership of Shri Guri
Govind. In this war over 1500 Men, Women & Children
sacrificed their lives. As a tribute to “Martyrs” of this
historical incident, the Gujarat Forest Department has
established “Govind Guru Smrutivan” at Mangadh Hill.
‘Govind Guru Smrutivan’ has been created in order to pay
homage to Shri Govind Guru and his tribal disciples who
laid their life on this pious spot.
In order to connect the people with tree raising, five
thematic sections have been created in this Sanskritic Van
and they are- (1) Shahid Van, (2) Rashi Van, (3) Nakshatra
Van, (4) Bilawa Van and (5) Tulsi Van. Interpretation centre
and other facilities have been created at the site in an area
of about 5.0 ha. After establishment of the cultural forest,
thousands of people from Gujarat, Rajasthan and also
from Madhya Pradesh started visiting the site every day.
Govind Guru Smrutivan was opened to public by the
Hon’ble Chief Minister during Van Mahotsav celebration
on 30-07-2012.
10. “Nagesh Van” - Nageshwar (Dwarka)
Nageswar, one of the twelve Jyotirligas of Lord shiva is

situated on western part of India in Devbhoomi Dwarka

district of Gujarat. 64th Van Mahotsavawas Celebrated

in Nageshwar in year 2013. Nageshwar is situated be-

tween the Dwarika – Karma Bhoomi of Lord Krishna and

Nageshwar – HoliJyotirliga. More than 30 Lakhs pilgrims

and tourists are visiting these places every year. Area of

“Nagesh Van” is 6.0 Ha.

The Nagesh Van has Navgrah Van, Nakshatra Van, Rashi

Van, Panchavati Van, Charak Van, Gugal Van, Tulsi Van,

Bili Van, Vad – Pipalvatika, Palm groves. Moreover

“Daruka Van” is establish at a place were Lord Krishna

killed the Darukarakshash.

Jamun , Arjun sadad, Bad, pipal and other tree species

are planted on the bund of Man Sarovar for beautifica-

tion.
 11. “Shakti Van” - Kagvad (Jetpur)
65th Van Mahotsava was celebrated at
Khodaldham – Kagvad of Jetpurtaluka in Rajkot
district. “Shakti Van” was established on 30-7-2014.
during this celebration. 83,700 plants having medic-
inal, cultural, esthetic and astrological value were
planted in 7.5 ha area.
Khodaldham having temple of Devi Khodal is
established recently, which is 70 km from Rajkot and
13 cm from industrial city Jetpur .
“Shakti Van” has attractive entrance gate
which is a symbol of Shakti. Kamal kund, model
of “Savaj” (Lion) pride of Gujarat, water fall,
Khodaldharoeyecatinglake, mural of lady which gives
message “NarituNarayani”, Vishawayush van which
gives information regarding van aushadhi, tree model
which shows five different form of Shakti.
Panchavati, Kadamkunj, Navgrah van, Chan-
danvatika, Ashok vatika, Bilva van, Naksharatra
van, Rashi van, Bamboo groves, Shriparni van and
interpretation centre giving information
regarding environment are main attraction of Shakti
van. 1111 plants were planted by young girls and se-
nior citizens which is a very good example of people
awareness and people participation.
12. “Janki Van” - Vansada
In the year 2015, the 66th state level vanmahotsava was
celebrated on 02/08/2015 at Bhinar of Vansda taluka in
Navsari district.
Janki van is established in natural scenic part of south Gu-
jarat have 9.64 ha. Gauchar land and 6.0 ha reserve for-
est, total 15.64 ha land.
Chandan van, Navgrah van, Amra van, Sinduri van,
Panchavati van, Ashok vatika van, Devfal van, Nakshatra
van, Rashi van, Ramayan van, bilivan, Interpretation cen-
ter, Tribal haat, Balvatika and Cafeteria are part of this cul-
tural van.
The main attractions of Janki van are,
1. Mural of different musical instruments of tribal.
2. Mural of Adimanav.
3. Nari Shakti sculpture.
4. Mural of goddess Unai.
5. Different products of Bamboo.
6. ValmikiKutir.
7. Gazebo.
8. Cafeteria and entrance gate.
13. “Mahisagar Van” - Anand
67th state level Van Mahotsava was celebrated on

24/09/2016 at Vaherakhadi of Anand district.

Mahisagar van is established in 6.0 ha having

Rashi van, Nakshatra van, Jaivik van, Chandan van,

Nariyeli van, Kadamb van, Navgrah van. Total 1,06,292

plants were planted in this cultural van.

The main attraction of mahisagar van are,

1. Statue of SardarVallabhbhai Patel.

2. Mural wall.

3. Crocodile sculpture.
4. Gazebo.

5. Saras crane sculpture.

6. Bank of holy river Mahisagar.

14. “Aamra Van” - Valsad
State level 67th Van Mahotsava was celebrated
on 30/07/2016. at Balchondi of Kaprada tehsil in
Valsad district.

Aamra van is established in 5.0 ha area having Rashi

van, Nakshatra van, Navgrah van, Panchavati van,
Aarogya van, Aamra van. Total 1,62,541 plants were
planted.

The main attraction of this Aamra van is,

1. Scientific demonstration of Mango farming.
2. Detailed information of Mango.
3. Van kutir
4. Nakshatra van
5. Navgrah van
6. Aarogya van
7. Ancient lord Shiva temple.

Photo : Prafull Bhavsar

15. “Ekta Van” - Surat
Ekta van was establish on 04/08/2016 at Mota village

of Bardoli tehsil in Surat district. Ekta van established

in area of 7.0 ha having Rashi van, Nakshatra van,

Panchavati van, Amar van, Koth van, Rayan van,

Chandan van, Setur van, Nilgiri van, Ayurvedic van,

Sindoori van, Kadam van etc.

The main attraction of Ekta van are,

1. Statue of SardarVallabhbhai Patel and Ekta pillar.

2. Water Fountain.

3. Van kutir.

4. Mediational van.

5. Playing area for children.

6. Garden having different type of flowers.

7. Exercise equipments.
16. “Shahid Van” - Jamnagar
67th Van Mahotsavaa was celebrated on 24/08/2016 at

Bhuchar Mori of Dhrol tehsil in Jamnagar district.

Shahid Van is established in 10.0 ha area, having Rashi

van, Nakshatra van, Navgrah van, Bili van,

Panchavati van, Tulsi van, Vadvatika, Halar van, Sorath

van, Zalawad van, Gohilvad van, Aajivika van, Aarogya

van. Total 1,03,000 plants were panted in this van.

The main attraction of Shahid van are,

1. Van Devi Mural

2. Statue of Shahid Jam Ajaji.

3. Colouring Fountain.

4. Garden.

5. Van kutir.

6. Picnic house.
17. “Viranjali Van” - Paal
In the year 2017, 68th State lavel Van Mahotsava was

celebrated at Paal of Vijaynagar Taluka in Sabarkantha

District and estalished ‘‘Viranjali Van’’ on 16/07/2017.

Viranjali Van devloped in 6.00 ha. area. The prime

altreactions of Viranjali Van are Nakshatra van, Rashi

van, Panchavati van, Dev van, Ayurvedic van, Aajivika

van, Navgrah van, Rajwadi Entrance gate, Statue of

Motilal Tejawat, Bhul-Bhulaiya, Laxmi Kund, Interpre-

tation Centre, Gazebo, Children’s Play Ground, Amphi

theatere, Water fall, Kranti Torch, Fountain, View point,

Watch Tower, Mural Wall, Birds feeding Tower, Models

of Tiger, Dinosaur, Hyppopotamus, Birds, Lawn Gan-

den, Hanging Tunnel, 3-D spectacle etc. Total 1,03,000

plants has been planted.

Punit Van Mangalya Van Tirthankar Van Harihar Van Bhakti Van

Shyamal Van Pawak Van Virasat Van Govind Guru Smrutivan

Nagesh Van Shakti Van Janki Van Mahisagar Van

Aamra Van Ekta Van Shahid Van Viranjali Van

Forest Department, Gujarat State

E-mail : dcfplo@gujarat.gov.in, dcfplonews@gmail.com