Sightseeing Highlights:
The quiet, idyllic surroundings of Saputara provides the perfect setting for long walks through its many gardens, namely Lake Garden, Step Garden and Rose Garden, while the Saputara Lake offers excellent opportunities for boating and sailing. The Sunrise Point, also known as the Valley View Point, offers a bird's eye view of Saputara and its environs, and Sunset Point is possibly the best place to catch breathtaking views of the neighbouring forests and villages. The latter can now be accessed by a ten-minute long, thrilling ride on the Ropeway.
Another main attraction here is the Nageshwar Mahadev Temple, which honours Lord Shiva, and features an image of the god. The Saputara Museum nearby is a great place to see displays on the life, culture and art of the region's many tribes. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the Vansda National Park, lying a short distance from town. Once a private forest belonging to the king of Vansda, this park is home to tigers, leopards, antelopes, pythons and giant squirrels among other animals.
Other Activities:
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.
Tourism info:
Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd.
Block number 16, 4th floor, Udyog Bhavan,
Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Tel: 079-23220002, 23221599
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. |
