Saputara, at about 1,000 metres in the Dang district of south-eastern Gujarat, sits on a plateau of the Sahyadri (Western Ghats) close to the Maharashtra border. The name means abode of serpents, and snake worship is part of local tribal tradition. The Dangs are home to Bhil, Kunbi and Warli communities.
The things to do in Saputara are relaxed: boating on the lake, watching sunrise and sunset from the viewpoints, riding the ropeway, visiting gardens and the Artist Village, and driving down to Gira Falls. It is at its best in the monsoon, when the hills are green, waterfalls pour off every cliff and the town holds its monsoon festival.
One or two days is enough. July to February is the best time, especially the monsoon and early winter.
For how to get there, when to go and where to stay, see our Saputara travel guide.
Quick answer: best things to do in Saputara
- Go boating on Saputara Lake
- Watch sunrise from Valley View Point
- Watch sunset from Sunset Point
- Ride the ropeway to Table Point
- See Gira Falls
- Visit the Artist Village and learn about Warli art
- See the Dang tribal museum
- Walk through the Rose and Step gardens
- Attend the monsoon festival
- Visit Vansda National Park and Hatgadh Fort
Comparing hill stations? See our guide to hill stations in western and central India.
Around the lake
Go boating on Saputara Lake
Saputara Lake, at the centre of the town, has rowing and pedal boats, and a promenade lined with food stalls. It is busiest in the evening.
Around the lake, stalls sell corn, bhajias and local snacks, and horse and camel rides are offered on the shore. In the monsoon, clouds often drift down to the water's edge.
- Good for
- Families
Walk through the gardens
The Rose Garden, Step Garden and Lake Garden are well kept and pleasant for a stroll, especially after the monsoon.
Visit the tribal museum
The museum in town has displays on the dress, tools, musical instruments and way of life of the Dang tribal communities.
- Time needed
- 45 minutes
Viewpoints and ropeway
Watch sunrise from Valley View Point
Valley View Point, also used as the sunrise point, looks east over the Dang forests and valleys.
- Best time
- Sunrise
Watch sunset from Sunset Point
Sunset Point, a short walk or ride from town, faces west over the Sahyadri ridges and is the town's most popular evening spot.
Paragliding flights have been offered from the hills during the monsoon festival and in season; check with licensed operators.
- Best time
- Sunset
Ride the ropeway to Table Point
A ropeway links the Sunset Point area with Table Point (Governor's Hill), a flat hilltop with pony rides and views over the valley.
- Good for
- Families
Waterfalls, forests and culture
See Gira Falls
Gira Falls, near Waghai about 50 km away, is a wide waterfall on the Ambika river that is spectacular in the monsoon. A viewing area lets visitors see it from close by.
The falls are about 30 metres wide in full flow, and the area around them has stalls selling bamboo crafts made by local artisans. Swimming at the base is not allowed.
- Best time
- July to October
Visit the Artist Village
The Artist Village, a short drive from town, promotes local tribal art such as Warli painting, with workshops, a gallery and simple stays.
Warli art uses simple white figures on mud-coloured walls to show village life, harvests and festivals. Visitors can join short workshops and buy paintings directly from artists.
- Good for
- Culture seekers
Walk in Vansda National Park
Vansda National Park, about 50 km away, protects moist deciduous forest with leopards, giant squirrels, deer and many birds.
The park lies along the Ambika river, and its dense teak and bamboo forests are good for birdwatching. Forest department guides can arrange walks and jeep drives.
See Hatgadh Fort
Hatgadh Fort, just across the border in Maharashtra, is a Maratha fort reached by a short trek, with views over the plateau.
Attend the monsoon festival
The Saputara Monsoon Festival, held in August, brings cultural performances, adventure activities and events to the plateau. The Dang Darbar, a tribal fair at Ahwa around Holi, is another major event.
- Best time
- August; Holi for the Dang Darbar
By season
July to September
The monsoon festival, waterfalls and misty green hills; the most popular season.
October to February
Clear, cool days and pleasant nights.
March to June
Warm, but cooler than the plains of Gujarat.
Things to do in Saputara by type of traveller
Families: Lake boating, the ropeway, gardens and Gira Falls.
Couples: Sunset Point, monsoon mist and quiet walks.
Culture seekers: The Artist Village, the tribal museum and the Dang Darbar.
Weekenders from Surat and Nashik: Drive up on Saturday for the lake and Sunset Point, see Gira Falls on Sunday and return in the afternoon.
What to do in Saputara with one day
Go boating on the lake in the morning and visit the tribal museum and gardens. After lunch, drive to Gira Falls, and return for the ropeway to Table Point and sunset at Sunset Point.
Practical tips for Saputara
- The nearest railway station is Waghai (narrow gauge) or Nashik Road; Surat has the nearest airport, about four hours away.
- Gujarat's dry laws apply in Saputara.
- Roads can be slippery in the monsoon.
- Weekends in the monsoon are crowded; book ahead.
- Carry a light raincoat in the monsoon and a jacket in winter; the plateau is cooler than the plains.
Plan the rest of your Saputara trip
Saputara things to do: FAQs
What are the best things to do in Saputara?
Go boating on the lake, watch sunrise and sunset from the viewpoints, ride the ropeway, see Gira Falls, visit the Artist Village and the tribal museum, and attend the monsoon festival.
What is the best time to visit Saputara?
July to February, especially the monsoon for waterfalls and greenery.
How many days are enough for Saputara?
One to two days.
How far is Saputara from Nashik?
About 80 km, roughly two hours by road.
Is Saputara good for a family trip?
Yes. The lake, ropeway, gardens, museum and nearby waterfalls are easy outings, and the town is small and safe.
How far is Gira Falls from Saputara?
About 50 km, roughly an hour and a half by road, near Waghai.
Things to do near Saputara
- Things to do in Surat: food and heritage
- Things to do in Nashik: temples and vineyards
More things to do in Gujarat
Published by the Kudozz Club editorial team Β· Last updated Β· How we research our guides
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