Situated in the Dang district of Gujarat, Saputara is the state's sole official hill station, resting comfortably on a lush plateau in the Western Ghats. Known for its dense tribal forests and rolling green hills, the town offers a refreshing escape defined by serene lakes, valley viewpoints, and a deeply-rooted indigenous culture.
Saputara
Gujarat's Only Hill Station and Tribal Cultural Haven
A Glimpse into the History
Tribal Origins
The name "Saputara" translates directly to "Abode of Serpents." To this day, the local indigenous Dang tribes gather on the banks of the nearby Sarpaganga river to worship the serpent image with profound devotion.
Mythological Ties
Local folklore firmly maintains that Lord Rama spent a generous portion of his 14-year exile wandering through these exact dense forests. His presence alongside Sita and Lakshmana makes the hills spiritually significant for many pilgrims.
Modern Evolution
Unlike grand imperial capitals, Saputara essentially evolved as an isolated tribal settlement connected intimately to the forest. It was eventually developed thoughtfully by the state tourism board into a carefully planned, eco-friendly hill resort.
Ecological & Cultural Significance
Saputara holds immense ecological importance as a vital green lung and sanctuary for the indigenous Dang tribes. The plateau actively preserves the region's rich tribal heritage through traditional bamboo architecture, folk art, and sustainable daily practices.
Cultural Observances
Dang Darbar (March)
Held right around the time of Holi, this vibrant festival openly honors the traditional tribal chieftains of the Dang district. Visitors can experience intense tribal dances, admire colorful traditional attire, and witness the trading of native forest goods.
Monsoon Festival (August/September)
The state officially hosts a month-long celebration to highlight the incredibly lush, rain-washed local landscapes. Travelers enjoy organized treks, cultural exhibitions, and thrilling morning boat races across Saputara Lake.
Artist Village
This culturally rich enclave provides rare, hands-on experiences with generations-old tribal arts and crafts. Visitors can purchase authentic bamboo woodwork, traditional jewelry, and vivid Warli paintings directly from the local artisans themselves.
Travel Guide
How to Reach
By Air: Surat Airport (STV) serves as the nearest major terminal, requiring a scenic three-hour drive (~160 km) into the hills.
By Train: Bilimora Junction (~110 km) is the most reliable broad-gauge railhead linking to major cities nationwide.
By Road: State transport buses and private taxis run frequently from Waghai, Bilimora, and Surat, traversing winding, picturesque mountain roads.
Best Time to Visit
Oct–Feb and Jul–Sep: Winter provides cool, extremely clear skies for sightseeing, while the intense monsoon season utterly transforms the hills into a vibrant, misty green paradise.
Local Attractions
Gira Waterfall (~50 km): A stunning and powerful seasonal cascade near Waghai that hits its peak flow during the monsoons.
Vansda National Park (~40 km): A thick, protected woodland offering a peaceful habitat for leopards and diverse native bird species.
Hatgadh Fort (~5 km): A rugged historic Maratha mountain fort located just across the Maharashtra border, providing sweeping panoramic valley views.
Tips for Visitors
Carry light woolen clothing even during the summer months, as the evening temperatures drop noticeably across the plateau after sunset.
Make time for a tranquil paddleboat ride on Saputara Lake early in the morning before the day-tripping crowds arrive.
Stick to clearly marked forest trails if trekking independently, as the surrounding jungles are incredibly dense and disorienting.
The continuous, narrowly winding mountain approach road can induce motion sickness, making preemptive medication highly recommended.
Location Map
Image Gallery
