Sabarkantha literally means the land enriched by the River Sabarmati which waters this land on its way to the Gulf of Khambat. Sabarkantha district is a colorful carpet of fascinating landscapes, pilgrimage sites and dense forests and hilly ranges containing diverse wild life and magnificent ancient ruins of stone architecture. Stone has been the preferred article of construction since eons of history as illustrated in the archeological excavations at Polo to the palaces and fortresses of Idar and Himmatnagar and the grand temples of Shamlaji and Khed Brahma.
The forest and hills of Sabarkantha are the natural abode of the Garasia and the Bhil communities who harvest the forest produce and fashion a range of crafts including utility items, gift ware, stone and metal ornaments and also fashion a range of terracotta items.
The modern city of Himmatnagar is known for its tile making and ceramic industry while Idar excels in toy making, the finest examples of which are on display at the Kharadi Bazaar in Idar town.