Banaskantha (Palanpur), locally written as બનાસકાંઠા (પાલનપુર), is a district in northern Gujarat, India, bordering Rajasthan. Palanpur is its administrative headquarters. Named after the Banas River, the district is known for agriculture, dairy farming and landscapes ranging from cultivated plains to the hills near Ambaji.
Gujarati is widely spoken, and local life reflects farming traditions, regional crafts and religious festivals. Banas Dairy is a major cooperative institution supporting rural livelihoods. Farming, livestock rearing, trade and services shape the economy. Prominent landmarks include the Ambaji temple, an important pilgrimage destination, and the historic Jain temples at Kumbhariya. Palanpur serves as a centre for administration, commerce and transport.
Common civic concerns include reliable drinking water, groundwater conservation, irrigation and resilience to drought and heavy seasonal rainfall. Residents also care about rural roads, public transport, healthcare, education, sanitation and employment opportunities. Managing pilgrimage traffic and improving services across dispersed villages are continuing local priorities.