Saputara
Saputara is a charming hill station located in the Dang district of the Indian state of Gujarat. The unmatched scenic beauty of this place beckons tourists from across the country all around the year. From enchanting landscapes, glittering waterfalls, dense forests to natural parks and wildlife sanctuary, Saputara in Gujarat is a holistic tourist destination. Saputara is the only hill station of Gujarat and it boasts the cultural and religious values of the various Adivasis tribes living in the region. There are plenty of things to do in Saputara to have a fascinating yet relaxing vacation.
This quaint small hill station not only offers rejuvenation at its best but tourists can also spend time sightseeing and exploring the culture of this place.
Best Time To Visit Saputara :
Located at an altitude of 1000 meters above sea level, Saputara experiences a calm and pleasant climate throughout the year. The average maximum and minimum temperatures recorded are 30°C and 10°C respectively; however, the hill station does not fail to brighten the tourist experience with its charm almost every season.
How To Reach Saputara :
Saputara has no airport or railway station. So, you have to rely on roads to reach the city. The closest airport is at Surat while the closest railway station is the Waghai railway station. However, it isn't well-connected. So, the convenient junction to reach Saputara is Bilimora.
1 . How To Reach Saputara By Flight :
If you wish to reach Saputara via airways, Surat Airport is the closest domestic airport at a distance of about 164 kilometers. The airport enjoys great connectivity with cities like Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and others via regular flights. Alternatively, you can take a flight to the Mumbai International Airport which is the closest international airport to reach Saputara. You can then travel to Saputara via government-owned or private buses or even a taxi.
2 . How To Reach Saputara By Road :
Approaching this hill station via road is the best option for tourists. Saputara is well-connected with all the nearby major cities of Gujarat and Maharashtra by road. Several state-government buses run regularly from cities like Pune, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad which are located at a distance of 286 km, 245 km, and 400 km respectively.
3 . How To Reach Saputara By Train :
Saputara does not have its own railway station but the nearest station is located at a distance of 50 kilometers. Bilimora railway station is well-connected with most of the major cities of Gujarat and Maharashtra. You can get a bus or a taxi from outside the station to reach saputara.
Places To Visit In Saputara :
1 . Artist Village :
Located near the Saputara lake, the Artist Village is a must-visit cultural center of the region. This gorgeous village is known for exhibiting the art of the native tribes including bamboo artifacts, jewelry, pottery, and clothes that represent the Dang culture. Not only can you buy these stunning artifacts and handicrafts, but you can also try your hand at crafting these yourself. You can learn a lot about the culture of this region during your visit to the spectacular Artist Village in Saputara.
Artist Village
2 . Hatgadh Fort :
Perched atop hills at an elevation of 3600 feet, Hatgadh Fort was built by the great Maratha king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. You have to trek along a rocky path to reach this ancient fort. The splendid architecture of this fort is a delight for tourists. There is an idol of Lord Ganesha placed atop the fort. Although now in ruins, this site is still one of the most exciting spots in Saputara. Located at a distance of just 5 kilometers from the Saputara Lake, this ancient fort offers panoramic views of the entire city and is popular for its tranquil and beautiful environment. Any things to do in the Saputara list would be incomplete without mentioning this lovely fort.
Hatgadh Fort
3 . Vansda National Park :
Nestled in the Sahyadri mountain ranges, Vansda national park is sprawled over an area of 24 square kilometers. The National park is situated on the banks of the Anamika River and houses several different species of flora, fauna, and avifauna. Some of the animal species found here are Four-horned antelope, Indian porcupine, Indian leopard, flying squirrel, rhesus macaque, barking deer, python, and Russell’s viper among others. This national park is also known for a rich diversity of birds with over 155 varied species. Some of which are Forest spotted owlet, Malabar trogon, Common grey hornbill, Grey-fronted green pigeon, and others. More than 400 species of plants are also found here.
Vansda National Park
4 . Sunrise And Sunset Point :
The most picturesque tourist spot of Saputara is the sunset point located right next to Malegaon. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this spot offers the most stunning view of the setting sun. Nestled in the hills, sunset point provides amazing views of the entire city. To reach the sunset point, tourists have to trek through beautiful surroundings and natural beauty. If you are not an adventure enthusiast or a trekker, you can take the ropeway or the cable car to reach the top. It takes only 15 minutes to reach the sunset point via these cable cars. The gorgeous view of the yellow sky and the entire city is a sight to behold.
Sunrise And Sunset point
5 . Saputara Lake :
Boating at the Saputara lake is one of the best activities to do in Saputara. This beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery and pristine beauty is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The best time to visit this lake is in the morning when you can soak in the beauty of the sunrise and enjoy the chirping of the birds. You can either enjoy boating or just take a walk admiring the mesmerizing beauty of this place. This is an ideal spot to spend some quality time with your family and loved ones.
Saputara Lake
6 . Gira Falls :
One of the major tourist attractions of Saputara, Gira falls is located a few kilometers away from the Saputara- Waghai road. The epitome of beauty, Gira falls cascades from a towering height of 150 feet and flows into the Ambika River. Adorned with picture-perfect natural surroundings, this waterfall is located within the Vansda National Park. The best thing to do here is to take a dip in the pool at the base of the waterfall or trek to the nearby forest to enjoy the scenic beauty of nature. Or else, you can just sit and relax while enjoying the captivating views. June – November is the best time to visit Gira falls to witness its beauty in full glory.
Gira Falls
