Saputara

Saputara is an unspoiled, charming little hill town in Maharashtra that offers pleasant weather throughout the year, come summer, monsoon, or winter. The hill station has a plethora of lovely nature spots, be it the waterfalls, little lakes, and flourishing forests that are endearing no matter what the season be.

One might wonder that Saputara radiates a more desi charm than the usual colonial-style hill stations, and that is because the place is a post-Independence discovery. Thus, you will not find viewpoints named after British rulers or no British Raj hangover mansions. The alternate suggestion is to taste some of the town’s attractions like boating on the lake and riding the ropeway cable cars. But, of course, you can avoid them by simply getting lost in the forested hills around.

Historical Background:

A mythological legend that surrounds the town is that Lord Rama spent 11 years of his exile here. The literal meaning of Saputara is ‘Abode of Serpents’, and to prove this, one can find an image of a snake situated on the shore of the river Sarpganga that flows through the town.

Things to Do and Major Attractions:

The lack of commercialization makes Saputara the most charming and leisurely place to visit. The air is chill, and the mist covers the town in the evenings. It is so tourist-friendly that finding your way around will not be a problem. In addition, tiny Saputara is covered with a blanket of a verdant green valley, making it a perfect getaway for a relaxed and calm weekend.

Walks and Views

Go trekking or take walks around the lake and the hills; the town offers you both options. If you feel walking is too much, you can relax in the gardens built around. Choose from Lake Garden, Step Garden, and Rose Garden. Next, get absorbed in the magic of the mountain air by heading towards the Forest Nursery and the Forest Log Hut, which are great places to spend time. Finally, don't skip Echo Point and Townview Point during your visit if you just wish to gaze at these hills.

If you want something offbeat, visit these tribal villages of Bhils, Warlis, and Gamits nearby. Or you can explore Hatgad Fort and Pandava Caves, all on foot. The aptly-named Sunset Point offers the perfect sentiment too.

If shedding a few kilos does not inspire you to undertake these treks, rely on the ropeway, giving you the ride and the views, sans physical effort. The tranquil lake is definitely one of Saputara’s main attractions, and the paddleboats operate throughout the year. Of course, there are horse rides as well.

Read about 15 Amazing Hill Stations Around Mumbai

Saputara Tribal Museum

This small museum just features a few rooms showcasing the life and humanities of the tribal population that resides within the Dangs. The museum houses carved wooden objects, tribal masks, musical instruments, and even a stone funerary column. What might be really interesting here, though, maybe a workshop where you'll find out how to form your own ‘traditional Dang’ items. In all of Saputara, the museum and a brochure put out by Gujarat Tourism remain the only source of information on the Dangs.

Festival of Saputara:

Saputara celebrates the Monsoon Festival in August - September, intending to promote the beauty of its hills and the tribal culture of the Dangs. Cultural programs are organized for one month, including the famous acrobatic dances of tribal communities Dang.

If you get an opportunity, attend the festival as these tribal dances of the Dang are magnificent to observe. These dances are also performed during major Hindu celebrations like Diwali or Holi or during wedding ceremonies. One of the famous dances is that the 'Dangi Nritya' in which the dancers, men, and ladies move in concentric circles held by the waist to the rhythm of percussion and wind instruments.

One of the most impressive aspects of this dance is the creation of a human pyramid. The women stand on the shoulders of men and form several choreographies, sometimes representing the goddess Durga or Lord Krishna while continuing to bop during a circle.

Local Food and Popular Shopping Items:

The local tribals are famous for and rely on bamboo handicrafts — pen stands, jewelry, masks. Do not miss those roadside stalls by the lake during your strolls for some specimens to take home as souvenirs. The town also has an Artist’s Village and a center for honey. Adjacent villages in the Dangs offer the same.

Food variety is limited here. So while in Saputara, one has to survive on the vegetarian Gujarati thali. This is the staple fare offered within the hotels, but as consolation, the servings are unlimited.

The food at Hotel Patang’s Pasand Restaurant is probably the simplest in Saputara and also the foremost expensive. The waiters here are highly efficient. You can have vegetarian Gujarati, Punjabi, and Chinese meals at hotels Vaishali and Anando.

Best Time to Visit:

Summers are moderately hot, while monsoons are lush and green, and winter, the best of all seasons, is calm and pleasant making it an ideal season for a trip to Saputara. But the opposite seasons don't fall behind, for Capitol Hill station celebrates every season with an active and merry festival of culture and adventure.

Availability of Accommodation Type:

Saputara provides you with ample living options. You can contact campsites and seal a package including stay, food, and adventure activities. In addition, you can opt for luxury residences such as Aakar Lords Inn or Hotel Lake View. However, if you are a bit low on budget, there are some cheaper yet beautiful hotels, such as Uday Hill Regency.