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Saputara holds the distinction of being the only hill
station in Gujarat. This tranquil small town is situated at an
altitude of around 1,000 m, and has a climate that is consistently
pleasant, although leaning towards chilly, throughout the year. The
name Saputara literally stands for 'abode of serpents,' a fact that
is highlighted by the presence of an image of a snake on the shores
of the Sarpagana river, which flows through the town. This image is
worshipped by the region's tribal folk, especially during major
festivals such as Holi. Adding to Saputara's mystique is the legend
that Lord Rama spent 11 years of his exile in these very forests
How to Reach Saputara
By Air: the nearest airport to Saputara is at Mumbai. There are a
couple of flights from there for Saputara.
By Road: the nearest railway station at Waghai on the
Billimora-Waghai narrow gauge section of the western Railways.
By Road: Saputara is well connected with other important
destinations by state transport buses as well as private luxury
coaches.
History of Saputara
Saputara means the Adobe of Serpents and a snake image on the banks
of the river Sarpagana is worshipped by the Adivasis on festivals
like Holi. Saputara has been developed as a planned hill resort with
all the necessary ameneties like hotels, parks, swimming pools ,
boat club, theatres and a museum to ensure an enjoyable holiday in
the cool of the hills. Saputara is only 164kms, from Surat.
Places to visit in Saputara
The Saputara Lake is the main attraction of the hill resort. There
is a Boat Club here from where you can hire sailboats, paddleboats
and rowing boats and enjoy boating in the lake. The Sun Rise and Sun
Set Points provide panoramic and varied views of the sun. It also
provides a perfect view of Saputara. You can reach Malegaon after a
1.5 km walk in the direction of Waghai. There are several gardens at
Saputara like the Lake Garden, the Step Garden and the Rose Garden.
These gardens are a perfect place to laze around while on a holiday.
The Nageshwar Mahadev Temple has the idol of the Lord Shiva. The
temple is visited by a lot of people because of its religious
sanctity. The museum of Saputara is well-kept museum, which provides
the information about the tribes of Dangs. The tribal ornaments and
musical instruments are exhibited in the museum. Gira Waterfalls is
52 km away. It is an ideal place for picnic.
Vansda National Park attracts a lot of tourists. It was originally a
private forest of the Maharaja of Vansda. It covers an area of 24 sq
km and has tigers, leopards, python, four-horned antelope, pangolin,
rusty-spotted cats and giant squirrels. The permission from the
Chief Wildlife Warden of Gandhinagar or DFO, Ahwa prior to the visit
to the park.
Vansda National Park, Tour to Saputara
The Purna Sanctuary is a part of the dense moist deciduous forests
in the Western Ghats of Gujarat. It covers an area of 160 sq. km.
And is situated at Mahal, which is 60 km north of Dangs. Bamboo
lined pathways are provided for the trekkers. Prior permission is
needed to visit this par.
Activities at Saputara
There are several destinations lying within easy distance of
Saputara that make for fun-filled day trips and excursions. The Gira
Falls, situated around 52 km from town, are a sight to behold,
especially during the period from June to November. It also serves
as an excellent spot for a family picnic. Farther away, nearly 60 km
north of Saputara, the Purna Sanctuary is a richly forested area,
with bamboo-lined walkways that are ideal for trekkers.
The Gandharvapur Artist Village is a great place to shop for
souvenirs and trinkets, such as bamboo jewellery, pottery, vases,
key chains and pen stands, made by local tribal craftsmen.
Lying in a densely forested plateau in the Sahyadri Range, Saputara
holds the distinction of being the only hill station in Gujarat.
This tranquil small town is situated at an altitude of around 1,000
m, and has a climate that is consistently pleasant, although leaning
towards chilly, throughout the year.
The name Saputara literally stands for 'abode of serpents,' a fact
that is highlighted by the presence of an image of a snake on the
shores of the Sarpagana river, which flows through the town. This
image is worshipped by the region's tribal folk, especially during
major festivals such as Holi. Adding to Saputara's mystique is the
legend that Lord Rama spent 11 years of his exile in these very
forests.
Where to Stay in Saputara
The accommodation is easily available at Saputara to suit all budget
types. There are hotels, cottages and log houses to stay here.
Places to eat
in Saputara
There are many restaurants and roadside stalls offering food. A
well-equipped station is run by Gujarat Tourism Corporation.
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