Saputara Hill Station Travel Guide.
Saputara is the only town in Gujarat situated on the hills, and thus it is really a gem hidden in the Western Ghats. It is surrounded by hills covered with lush greenery and dense forests and has lakes and waterfalls nearby. So, it is truly a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure lovers and even for those who seek a hiatus away from the grind of city life. The town serves as a refreshing escape with its cool weather, scenic vistas, and thriving tribal culture.
Location and Geography
Saputara lies in the Dang district of Gujarat, close to the Maharashtra border. In the local Indian language, the meaning of the word Saputara is believed to be “Abode of Serpents” or a place where serpents dwell because of the region’s affinity with nature and folklore.
At about 1000 meters above sea level, the hill station provides picturesque views of valleys, forests, and nearby Sahyadri hills. Its well-arranged layout contributes to tourists’ comfortable spendings in visiting the attraction without much feeling of crush.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Saputara is from September to March. The region turns lush and vibrant during the monsoon, with waterfalls in full flow and hills shrouded in mist. Sightseeing and other outdoor activities are best done in winter, when the temperature remains cool and comfortable. Summers are warm as compared to the hill stations in Maharashtra, but still pleasant when compared with the plains.
How to Reach
One can reach Saputara by road, rail, or air. By road, the distances from Mumbai, Surat, and Ahmedabad are around 250, 172, and 300 kilometers, respectively. Buses of the state transport and private taxis ply regularly. The nearest irregular railway station is Waghai, 50 kilometers away, connecting to major cities of Gujarat.
The nearest airport is at Surat, which is at a distance of 156 kilometers from Saputara, from where one can hire a taxi or take the bus.
1. Saputara Lake
An important attraction of Saputara, Saputara Lake sits right in the heart of the town. With gardens and walking paths around, the lake is one place where anyone can enjoy a morning walk or evening stroll. Boating facilities are also there for visitors to spend some pleasant hours on the water.
2. Sunset Point
Sunset Point affords views of the mighty Sahyadri mountain ranges and the valley below. Everyday, in the evenings, groups of visitors gather here for the sunset, with the sky painted in various shades of orange and pink.
3. Sunrise Point
Sunrise Point is at its best during early morning hours. Dawn and misty hills amongst the solitude usher in a magical time for a nature enthusiast.
4. Tribal Museum
There is a Tribal museum in Saputara exhibiting the culture and traditions of local Dang tribes. Various artifacts and indigenous things, including handicrafts, musical instruments, and ornaments, give out a few glimpses of how the indigenous people live.
5.Gira Waterfalls
Being a waterfall lover, Gira Waterfalls is a favorite location situated some 50 kilometers from Saputara. During the monsoon, the waterfall is a grand site, the water flowing down roughly from 75 feet.
6. Gardens in Saputara
Several beautiful gardens are laid out in Saputara. Step Garden is laid on hillside grounds, in such a manner that allows stepping freely amid different levels. Rose Garden is yet another attraction, where one could take in the view of colorful roses in full bloom.
Accommodation
Saputara has hotels, resorts and government guesthouses that cater to a wide range of budgets. There are many hotels located near the lake or gardens, with good visual aspects and surrounding views. Budgeted travelers can enjoy guest houses and homestays with reasonable rates. Classes of luxury resorts are also available for those who prefer modern amenities and beautiful surrounds.
Festivals and Culture
The local Dang tribes celebrate many traditional festivals with music, dance, and rituals that provide a glimpse into their long-standing heritage. If you happen to visit Saputara during the festival time, it will provide you with better insight into their culture and give you an experience of a colour.
Reasons to Visit Saputara
Saputara is an excellent option for both a weekend or a longer trip. With the combination of breathtaking natural beauty, adventure, culture, and tranquility, all kinds of travelers would find Saputara enjoyable. Whether it is boating, trekking, learning about tribal art, watching sunsets, or just enjoying the cooler weather, Saputara has something to offer everyone.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Dang District, Gujarat, near Maharashtra border |
| Altitude | Around 1000 meters |
| Best Time to Visit | September to March |
| Nearest Railway Station | Waghai, 50 km away |
| Nearest Airport | Surat Airport, 156 km away |
| Famous Attractions | Saputara Lake, Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, Hatgadh Fort, Gira Waterfalls, Artist Village, Tribal Museum, Gardens |
| Things to Do | Boating, Trekking, Ropeway Ride, Nature Walks, Photography, Explore Tribal Art |
| Local Cuisine | Thepla, Khichdi, Dhokla, Bhakri, Spicy Curries, Street Food |
| Accommodation | Hotels, Resorts, Guesthouses, Homestays |
| Travel Distance | 250 km from Mumbai, 172 km from Surat, 300 km from Ahmedabad |
| Ideal For | Families, Couples, Solo Travelers, Nature Lovers, Adventure Enthusiasts |
The Saputara Ropeway is one of the most popular attractions in the hill station. It provides a scenic aerial view of the town, the lake, and surrounding hills. The ropeway usually operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the ride takes around 5–10 minutes. The fee for adults is approximately 100–150 rupees per person, while children may have a slightly lower ticket price.
Saputara entry Fees
Apart from the ropeway, other attractions in Saputara have minimal entry fees. Saputara Lake is free to visit, though boating charges range from 50 to 150 rupees depending on the type of boat. Sunset Point and Sunrise Point do not have any entry fee, making them accessible to all visitors. The Tribal Museum charges a nominal fee of around 20–30 rupees for entry.
Gardens such as Step Garden and Rose Garden are open to the public with a small ticket fee of 10–20 rupees. Gira Waterfalls, located a short drive from Saputara, does not have an official entry fee but may require a small parking or guide charge for visitors.
Conclusion
Saputara is more than a hill station; it is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and serenity. Saputara is the complete experience for travelers, including lakes and gardens, forts and waterfalls, tribal villages.views of great landscapes. For adventure, peace, culture, or a combination of them all: Saputara is a great trip, you will be feeling relaxed and ready for whatever comes next.
Frequently asked questions
What is Saputara Hill Station known for?
Saputara Hill Station is known for its scenic beauty, lakes, waterfalls, tribal culture, cool climate, and outdoor activities like boating and trekking.
When is the best time to visit Saputara?
The best time to visit is between September and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
How can I reach Saputara?
Saputara can be reached by road, rail, and air. It is about 250 km from Mumbai, 172 km from Surat, and 300 km from Ahmedabad. The nearest railway station is Waghai (50 km away), and the nearest airport is Surat Airport (156 km away).
What are the main attractions in Saputara
The main attractions include Saputara Lake, Sunset Point, Sunrise Point, Hatgadh Fort, Ropeway, Gira Waterfalls, Artist Village, Tribal Museum, and the gardens like Step Garden and Rose Garden.
