The Master Saputara Guide Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Abode of Serpents & Dangi Tribal Heritage

Nestled at an elevation of 1,000 metres in the Sahyadri Range of Dang district, Saputara is the only hill station in Gujarat. Located in India, The Master Saputara Guide Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the region's notable destination destinations. It draws visitors seeking natural scenery, wildlife, heritage, or adventure in one of India's most geographically diverse states. The surrounding landscape reflects the ecological and cultural character of this part of India, shaped by its altitude, rainfall, and human history.

Translating literally to "Abode of Serpents" in local tribal dialect, Saputara sits on the banks of the Sarpaganga river, where local Dangi tribes (Bhil, Kunbi, and Warli) worship a holy snake image on festivals.

Surrounded by dense teak and bamboo forests, Saputara is famous for **Saputara Lake boating**, **Sunset Point Pushpak Cable Car Ropeway**, **Gira Waterfalls (80-foot drop near Waghai)**, **Vansda National Park**, and **Shabari Dham**.

2. Iconic Saputara & Dang Landmarks Directory

3. Master 3-Day Hill Station & Waterfall Itinerary

4. Saputara Lake Boating & Lake Garden Promenade

Situated right in the center of the hill station, **Saputara Lake** is a serene water body surrounded by green hills. The human history of The Master Saputara Guide Wildlife Sanctuary reflects the broader historical currents of India — whether the influence of ancient kingdoms, Mughal or Maratha power, colonial administration, or post-independence development. Archaeological, epigraphic, or architectural evidence at or near the site reveals the duration and nature of human association with this landscape. Conservation or heritage status, where it applies, reflects modern recognition of the site's natural or cultural significance.

Visitors can rent pedal boats or row boats. The adjoining **Lake Garden** features landscaped lawns, children's play areas, and a paved 2 km walking track.

5. Sunset Point & Pushpak Cable Car Ropeway

The **Pushpak Cable Car Ropeway** glides across a 400-metre wide valley between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point at a height of 30 feet above the tree canopy.

At **Sunset Point**, visitors enjoy panoramic sunset views over the rolling Dang forest hills stretching into Maharashtra.

6. Gira Waterfall (80 Ft) & Waghai Botanical Garden

Located near Wanarchhod village near Waghai town (49 km from Saputara), **Gira Waterfall** is an 80-foot natural drop formed by the Gira stream falling into the Ambika river.

Nearby lies the **Waghai Botanical Garden**, a 24-hectare plant conservation center housing 1,400 species of native plants, bamboo groves, and medicinal herbs.

7. Vansda National Park & Bamboo Canopy

Spanning 24 sq km, **Vansda National Park** was formerly the private hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Vansda.

Protected from grazing and logging, the forest features dense closed canopy trees (up to 110 ft tall), wild orchids, giant squirrels, leopards, and barking deer.

8. Shabari Dham & Subir Forest Temple

Situated 60 km from Saputara near Subir village, **Shabari Dham** is a sacred hill temple associated with the Ramayana epic. The forests and wetlands of The Master Saputara Guide Wildlife Sanctuary support a range of wildlife adapted to the local habitat type: whether tropical moist deciduous, dry deciduous, shola grassland, or riverine forest. Documented fauna may include large mammals, reptiles, and an extensive bird list that draws birdwatchers particularly during winter migration (October–February). The Forest Department regulates safari timing and entry; checking current permit and booking procedures before visiting is essential for protected areas.

It marks the place where Lord Rama met his devotee Shabari and tasted sweet berries. Three large carved stone slabs inside the temple mark the exact seating spot.

9. Surat, Nashik & Bilimora Transit Roster

10. Cable Car Fares, Boating Tariffs & Entry Rules

Travel logistics: Entry to The Master Saputara Guide Wildlife Sanctuary may require advance booking, forest department permits, or prior registration depending on protected area status. Vehicle restrictions, guide requirements, and daily entry quotas are common at tiger reserves and wildlife sanctuaries; verify the current rules at the official forest department website or at the entry gate. Basic facilities including parking, restrooms, and interpretation centres may be available; infrastructure quality varies significantly by site.

• Pushpak Cable Car Ropeway Rate: ₹90 per person for return cable car trip (Timings: 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM).
• Saputara Lake Boating Rates: 2-seater pedal boat costs ₹100 for 30 mins; 4-seater pedal boat costs ₹180; Rowing boat costs ₹250 per trip.
• Vansda National Park Entry: Vehicle entry permit ₹400; Guide fee ₹150. Closed on Wednesdays.

11. 30-TCGL Toran & Forest Hill Resort Directory

12. Monsoon Megh Malhar vs Crisp Winter Winds

13. Dangi Nagli Rotla, Bamboo Rice & Gujarati Thali

Savor authentic regional gastronomy: Dangi Ragi / Nagli Rotla with Garlic Chutney, Bamboo Shoot Curry, Unlimited Gujarati Thali (Khadhi, Undhiyu & Rotli), Khaman Dhokla, and hot Adrak Tea. Located in India, The Master Saputara Guide Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the region's notable destination destinations. It draws visitors seeking natural scenery, wildlife, heritage, or adventure in one of India's most geographically diverse states. The surrounding landscape reflects the ecological and cultural character of this part of India, shaped by its altitude, rainfall, and human history.

14. Frequently Asked Questions