Saputara Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat in Saputara, Gujarat. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Saputara

Nestled in the Sahyadris or the Western Ghats in Gujarat, Saputara offers nature at its picturesque best. The hill station is located at a height of 1000meters above sea level and is surrounded by thick forests, lush green meadows, and misty hills. The serenity of the place is the perfect choice for those looking for a refreshing break from the chaos of the city. The hill station’s proximity to various major cities in Gujarat like Mumbai, Nashik, Surat, Vadodara, etc. makes it an ideal weekend getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Saputara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Saputara offers visitors a glimpse of its rich cultural heritage through various museums and historical sites:

  • Saputara Tribal Museum: The museum showcases the lifestyle, traditions, and culture of the tribal community that inhabits the region. It is an excellent place to learn about the customs and traditions of the tribe.
  • Hatgadh Fort: Hatgadh Fort is a historic fort located near Saputara. The fort offers panoramic views of Saputara and the surrounding landscape. The trek to the fort is worth it for the stunning views.
  • Pandava Caves: Located on the Waghai-Saputara Road, Pandava Caves are ancient caves that are believed to date back to the times of the Mahabharata. Tourists can explore the intricate rock formations and chambers of the caves.

Natural Attractions of Saputara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Saputara has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty and adventure. Some of the top natural attractions in Saputara include:

  • Sunset Point: As the name suggests, Sunset Point is the perfect spot to watch the sun go down against a breathtaking view of the skyline.
  • Gira Falls: Located in the middle of a dense forest, Gira Falls is the perfect picnic spot for tourists since the waters are shallow enough to wade in.
  • Vansda National Park: The park spans over an area of 24 kilometers and is the ideal place for nature lovers. Visitors can spot a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, bison, etc., along with approximately 245 species of birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saputara

Saputara is a haven for nature lovers and adventure sports enthusiasts. Numerous trails offer hikers and bikers an adrenaline-pumping experience. Here are some of the hiking and biking routes one can explore:

  • Saputara to Hatgad Fort Trek: It is a four-kilometer trek, offering a scenic view of the region. One can explore a vast expanse of the Western Ghats along with the ancient fortifications of Hatgad Fort.
  • Hike to Gira Falls: Gira Falls trek is a 1.5-kilometer trek which ends at the magnificent Gira Falls. The route has picturesque green terrain and is perfect for nature lovers.
  • Cycling to Lake Saputara: A ride around the Saputara lake is perfect for cycling enthusiasts. The route offers scenic views of the Saputara valley along with the lake.

Best Things to Do in Saputara: Activities and Tours

Apart from outdoor activities, Saputara also offers visitors cultural experiences, along with the chance to indulge in adventure sports.

  • Tribal Village Tour: The tour takes tourists through the village of the local tribal communities, which gives visitors a chance to learn about tribal art and culture.
  • Boating in Saputara Lake: Saputara Lake is serene and calm and is perfect for boating enthusiasts. Visitors can choose from paddle boats, rowboats, and even motorboats to explore the lake.
  • Paragliding: Some organizations offer visitors the opportunity to experience the thrill of paragliding over Saputara and its gorgeous surroundings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saputara

For visitors who are planning an extended stay in Saputara, here is a week-long itinerary which will help them make the most of their trip:

  • Day 1: Visit the Tribal Museum, Hatgadh Fort, and Pandava Caves for a glimpse into the region’s rich culture and history.
  • Day 2: Explore the natural beauties of Saputara, like Sunset Point and Gira Falls.
  • Day 3: Spend the day at the Vansda National Park, trekking and spotting wildlife.
  • Day 4: Experience the thrill of outdoor activities like paragliding and kayaking.
  • Day 5: Take a professional guided tour of the botanical gardens and the famous Saputara lake situated in the heart of the city.
  • Day 6: Explore the quaint village markets, enjoy local food, and shop for souvenirs for friends and loved ones.
  • Day 7: Have a relaxed day or revisit any attraction you particularly enjoyed.

Food and Drink Scene of Saputara

No trip is complete without trying out the local cuisine. Saputara has a great food and drink scene, boasting of unique dishes and beverages for visitors to enjoy.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ponk Vada: This snack is made from crushed tender Jowar seeds (ponk), which is mixed with a spicy paste made from green chilies, herbs, and garlic before being fried.
  • Locho: A hot and savoury Gujarati snack made from Gram Flour (Besan) and buttermilk.
  • Undhiyu: A traditional Gujarati winter dish which is a mix of vegetables like Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes, Beans, Green Peas which are roasted in spices.

Local Beverages

  • Kesu Juice: A seasonal drink made from cotyledons of palm leaves, which are then soaked in water overnight before being crushed and poured into a glass is a refreshing drink.
  • Butter Milk: It is a healthy drink made by churning fresh curd and adding water, salt, and spices like cumin powder.

Where to Stay in Saputara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Saputara has plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget. Here are some of the top places to stay in Saputara:

  • Hotel Anando: The hotel offers excellent amenities such as a swimming pool, gym, spa, and sauna.
  • Hotel Patang: The perfect budget-friendly accommodation in Saputara, located in the heart of the town.
  • Hotel Lake View: Premium lakeside rooms and balconies offer a breathtaking view of the sunset in Saputara.

What to Buy in Saputara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Saputara, tourists can indulge in some shopping and take back some local souvenirs and products:

  • Handicrafts: Saputara is known for its unique tribal handicrafts, including bamboo artifacts, pottery, and warli paintings.
  • Traditional Textiles: Rich fabrics of Gujarat such as Bandhani, Patola, and Mashru are available in Saputara. Visitors can purchase elegant sarees and shawls made from these fabrics.
  • Local Produce: Visitors can also buy Saputara’s specialty produce like honey, amla candy, jams, and pickles.

Local Culture and Customs of Saputara

Tourists should be aware of some of the customs and beliefs of the tribal community that inhabits Saputara:

  • Respect for Tribal Culture: Visitors should always be mindful of the tribal culture of the region and respect their customs and traditions. Photographing the tribals or their children without permission is strictly prohibited.
  • Environmentally Conscious: Saputara is a land of natural beauty; visitors should prevent littering and maintain cleanliness at all times.

Best Time to Visit Saputara

Saputara is worth visiting throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between October to March. During this time, the weather remains cool and pleasant, offering the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saputara

Do:

  • Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and must-have items to protect yourself from the sun’s heat.
  • Dress appropriately, as Saputara is a culturally sensitive community.
  • Take care of your belongings as you walk around the tourist places.

Don’t:

  • Avoid carrying plastic bags, as Saputara is environmentally conscious, and plastic is prohibited in the region.
  • Do not litter; Saputara is a region of natural beauty, so visitors should do their part in maintaining it.

Safety and Health

Safety in Saputara

Saputara is generally safe, but tourists should watch out for pickpockets and take the necessary precautions while traveling.

Health in Saputara

Tourists should be careful and carry their medications if they have any medical conditions. Visitors should avoid consuming water from unknown sources and stick to bottled water only.

Getting to Saputara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saputara

Mumbai and Surat airports are the closest to Saputara, and taxis and buses connect the airports to the hill station.

Bus Stations Near Saputara

The nearest bus station is Waghai Bus Station, which is well-connected to Surat, Mumbai, and Vadodara. Visitors can take a taxi or bus, which will take around an hour to reach Saputara.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also an option to reach Saputara, from major cities in Gujarat.

How to Get Around in Saputara

Tourists can rent bicycles, mopeds or scooters to explore the town, but it is important to be careful while driving. Taxis and auto-rickshaw are other modes of transport that visitors can use for short distances.

Where to Go Next from Saputara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Saputara is surrounded by many fascinating destinations that visitors can explore along with Saputara. Some nearby attractions include:

  • Nasik: Famous for its vineyards and wineries, this city is just a few hours away from Saputara.
  • Suryamal: It is the highest peak of Thane district and welcomes trekkers to an experience of a lifetime.
  • Shirdi: The pilgrimage town associated with the life of Sai Baba, which is just a few hours from Saputara.

Conclusion

Saputara is a picturesque hill station with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. With its numerous tourist attractions, outdoor activities, cuisine and handicrafts, visitors can experience a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure. Saputara’s proximity to major cities in Gujarat makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a more extended staycation. With this comprehensive guide, tourists can plan and make the most of their stay in Saputara.

Saputara lake seen from ropeway station Saputara lake seen from ropeway station Gira Falls Gira Falls