Nestled in the Sahyadris, Saputara boasts of breathtaking view points, waterfalls, and enchanting indigenous arts and crafts.
Saputara (Dang, Gujarat): It’s a common complaint among Indian tourists that unbridled commercialisation has robbed their favourite hill stations of their sleepy charm.
This, in turn, has driven fervent searches for virgin locations where quiet moments can still be had in the lap of a valley, away from urban bustle.
One such largely unexplored gem lies on the southern tip of Gujarat. Popularly known as ‘Gujarat ka taara’, Saputara is the state’s only hill station. Nestled in the Sahyadris, it boasts of breathtaking view points, waterfalls, and enchanting indigenous arts and crafts.
Saputara, located in Dang district, translates to ‘abode of serpents’, the name derived from a snake deity considered holy by the native Dang tribe.
For several people within the state, Saputara is a favourite weekend getaway. “The view from the hills is mesmerising, and it’s an amazing feeling to be above the clouds,” said Priyesh Sheth, who lives in Vejalpur.
Gujarat Tourism has been trying to get Saputara a place on Indians’ travel itinerary, and it is to this end that it organises the annual month-long Saputara Monsoon Festival.
The festival is a showcase of local culture, including Dangi dance performances, and also features Dayro, a Gujarati folk-singing event, apart from stand-up comedy shows, craft workshops and handicraft exhibitions.
Gujarat tourism minister Ganpatsinh Vasava told ThePrint the festival brought employment opportunities for members of the Dang tribe, while also giving emerging local artistes a platform to showcase their talent.
Also read: India’s top 5 revenue generating monuments were all built by Muslim rulers
The forest department also organises forest treks, which take tourists right through the belly of the lush Western Ghats.
ThePrint brings you glimpses from a hidden hilly marvel.
Also read: Bangladeshis top the list of foreigners visiting India for medical tourism
The reporter visited Saputara as a guest of Gujarat Tourism.