Dadra and Nagar Haveli Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Dadra and Nagar Haveli with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover things to do, places to visit, hiking/biking routes, where to stay, local culture, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a union territory in Western India, located in the Sahyadri hills of the Western Ghats. It shares its borders with the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Earlier an erstwhile Portuguese colony, this region was merged with India in 1961. Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a serene, natural paradise with lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers. It is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, adventurers and those seeking a peaceful holiday amidst natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tribal Cultural Museum: The Tribal Cultural Museum is a significant attraction, exhibiting the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the tribes of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Visitors can explore artefacts, handicrafts, and paintings that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
  • Vanganga Lake: Vanganga Lake Garden is a serene natural park which boasts of several unique features, including an island with a musical fountain show, boating facilities, and a children’s play area. The garden also features a mini zoo with a variety of animals, making it the perfect family outing.
  • Silvassa: Silvassa is the capital of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and a major commercial and tourist hub. Visit the Tribal Culture Museum, the Church of Our Lady of Piety, and the Vanganga Lake Garden, for a glimpse into the local history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Dadra and Nagar Haveli: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Satmaliya Deer Park: Satamaliya Deer Park is a wildlife sanctuary and home to diverse flora and fauna, and many species of deer. Visitors can enjoy a safari ride amidst natural settings.
  • Dudhni Lake: Dudhni Lake is an artificial water bank built on the River Damanganga. Tourists can indulge in boating, water sports, and camping in its serene surroundings.
  • Gira Waterfalls: Gira Waterfalls is the largest waterfall in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, cascading from a height of 30 meters. Visitors can enjoy trekking, swimming, and picnicking amidst refreshing natural surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dadra and Nagar Haveli

  • Khanvel to Vananchal Trail: The 8 km Khanvel to Vananchal trail runs through dense forests, tribal villages, and gurgling streams. This trail is ideal for hiking and biking.
  • Shankar Dev Path: The Shankar Dev Path hiking route is a 4 km trail that starts at Sakartod and ends at Ribda. This off-the-beaten-path route offers trekking enthusiasts a challenging and rewarding experience.
  • Dudhni Lake Circuit: The Dudhni Lake Circuit is a scenic 17 km biking route around the Dudhni Lake, offering breathtaking views of the hills and the water reservoir.

Best Things to Do in Dadra and Nagar Haveli: Activities and Tours

  • Boating and Water Sports at Dudhani Lake: Hop on a speed boat, a motorboat or a paddleboat and enjoy a peaceful ride in the scenic Dudhani Lake. For the adventure seekers, there are Jet Skis and other water sports available.
  • Tribal Village and Cultural Tour: Discover the culture and lifestyle of the tribes of Dadra and Nagar Haveli by taking a tour of the tribal villages and exploring the traditional handicrafts and dances.
  • Camping and Glamping at Dudhni: Enjoy a night under the stars by camping at the banks of the Dudhni Lake or indulge in luxury camping aka Glamping at some of the elegant campsites.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Day 1: Reach Silvassa, visit the Tribal Culture Museum, and explore the city.

Day 2: Hike/bike the Shankar Dev Path and experience the natural beauty of the region.

Day 3: Head to Dudhani Lake and indulge in boating and water sports.

Day 4: Enjoy a day of camping or glamping, and trek to Gira Waterfalls.

Day 5: Visit Vanganga Lake Garden andSatamaliya Deer Park, followed by a trip to Khanvel for shopping and food.

Day 6: Take a cultural tour of the tribal villages and handicraft units, followed by an evening in the Silvassa city center.

Day 7: Departure from Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

Food and Drink Scene of Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Must-Try Dishes

  • Puri Bhaji: A popular vegetarian breakfast dish, Puri Bhaji consists of deep-fried flour bread served with potato curry.
  • Fish Curry: Made with local spices and coconut milk, fish curry is a must-try seafood delicacy of the region.
  • Prawn Masala: Prepared with juicy prawns in spicy sauce, Prawn Masala is a must-try recipe for seafood lovers.
  • Khaman: Khaman is a steamed savoury chickpea-flour dish, served with tangy chutneys and garnished with grated coconut.
  • Rotlo: A local bread made with bajra (pearl millet) flour, Rotlo is served with a dollop of butter or ghee.

Local Beverages

  • Solkadhi: Solkadhi is a refreshing and nutritious drink made from kokum and coconut milk.
  • Aam panna: This summer drink is made with green mango pulp, sugar, and spices.
  • Fruit juice: Try locally-grown sapodilla, chikoo, and mango juices for a refreshing beverage.

Where to Stay in Dadra and Nagar Haveli: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Silvassa, the capital of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, offers a wide variety of lodging options, including budget hotels, resorts, luxury hotels, and guesthouses. Khanvel is another popular destination for accommodation, offering mid-range hotels and heritage homestays, while Dudhani offers camping and glamping sites.

What to Buy in Dadra and Nagar Haveli: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bamboo Crafts: The region is known for its bamboo crafts, including baskets, furniture, lampshades, and jewellery boxes.
  • Tribal Handicrafts: Buy locally made tribal handicrafts, such as beadwork, paintings, and pottery, as souvenirs.
  • Chikoo: Dadra and Nagar Haveli is famous for its sweet chikoo fruit, so don’t forget to try and take home some of the delicious locally grown fruit.
  • Warli Paintings: Warli is a traditional tribal art form, and the paintings can make for an unforgettable souvenir, depicting life in the hills with the use of symbolic shapes and lines.

Local Culture and Customs of Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli is known for its tribal culture. The tribal population has rich traditions and practices that centre around art, music, folklore, and handicrafts. Visitors must show respect for the local culture, dress modestly and avoid any cultural insensitivity.

Best Time to Visit Dadra and Nagar Haveli

The best time to visit Dadra and Nagar Haveli is from October to February, when the climate remains pleasant and comfortable. The region can be quite humid and hot during the summer months, making it uncomfortable for sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Wear comfortable and modest clothing when visiting religious places or tribal villages.
  • Carry enough water and wear sturdy shoes while trekking.
  • Bargain while shopping in local markets.

Don’t:

  • Do not disrespect local culture or customs.
  • Do not litter or pollute natural surroundings.
  • Do not indulge in any illegal activities or drugs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a relatively safe region. However, visitors should take care of their personal belongings and avoid walking alone in isolated areas during late hours.

Health in Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli has adequate medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. However, visitors should carry basic first-aid kits and medications for any specific health issues.

Getting to Dadra and Nagar Haveli: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dadra and Nagar Haveli

The nearest airport to Dadra and Nagar Haveli is Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, which is 150 km away from Silvassa.

Bus Stations Near Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Silvassa is well-connected to the major cities of Maharashtra and Gujarat by bus. The nearest bus station is Vapi, which is 18 km away from Silvassa.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire private cars or taxis to reach Dadra and Nagar Haveli from nearby cities like Mumbai, Surat, and Ahmedabad.

How to Get Around in Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Taxis, buses, and autos are readily available in the region. Visitors can also hire a scooter, motorcycle, or bike for day trips.

Where to Go Next from Dadra and Nagar Haveli: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Daman: Daman is a coastal city located 30 km from Dadra and Nagar Haveli, known for its beaches, Portuguese architecture, and seafood.
  • Saputara: Located just 80 km from Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Saputara is a picturesque hill station, famous for its captivating views, waterfalls, and tribal culture.
  • Mumbai: Mumbai, the cosmopolitan capital of Maharashtra, is located about 150 km away from Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Mumbai is home to iconic landmarks, famous street food, and a vibrant nightlife.
  • Vapi: Vapi in Gujarat is just 18 km away from Dadra and Nagar Haveli and is famous for its industrial growth and food scene.

Conclusion

Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a beautiful destination, offering a peaceful respite from the city’s chaos. The region’s natural beauty, thrilling adventure opportunities, and rich cultural heritage create a unique holiday experience. The union territory caters to both backpackers and luxury travelers searching for an unforgettable holiday getaway. Plan your visit and create lasting memories in Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

Daman Ganga river in Silvassa Daman Ganga river in Silvassa