Saputara Hill Station Tour (2N/3D)

Day 1: Arrival in Saputara & Lakeside Charm

Your refreshing Saputara journey begins as you arrive at this picturesque hill station. Upon arrival, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your pre-booked comfortable hotel or resort. Check-in, settle into your rooms, and take some time to freshen up and relax after your travel.

Afternoon Delights:

• Saputara Lake Exploration: In the afternoon, we head to the heart of the town, the beautiful Saputara Lake. This tranquil man-made lake is surrounded by rolling hills and offers a perfect setting for relaxation.
• Boating Experience: Enjoy a serene boating session on the lake (paddle or rowboat), a delightful activity for families and couples. Feel the gentle breeze and admire the lush green surroundings. The lake area also features a pleasant promenade, ideal for leisurely strolls.
• Family Fun: For those travelling with children, the lakeside garden and various recreational options nearby provide ample entertainment. You might even spot locals enjoying the cool weather.

Evening Spectacle:

• Sunset Point: As the sun begins its descent, we proceed to the renowned Sunset Point. Perched at a vantage location, this point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Saputara valley, adorned with a canvas of vibrant colours as the sun dips below the horizon. It's a truly magical experience, perfect for capturing stunning photographs and creating lasting memories.

Culinary Journey:

• Authentic Gujarati Dinner: For dinner, we recommend indulging in a sumptuous local Gujarati thali at a well-regarded restaurant. Savor the distinct flavours of this region, known for its sweet and savory balance, fresh ingredients, and a delightful variety of dishes. Many local eateries offer a blend of traditional and contemporary options, catering to diverse palates.

After a day filled with scenic beauty and gentle exploration, return to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay, dreaming of the adventures yet to come in this tranquil hill haven. The journey today reflects the peaceful contrast one might seek after navigating routes from Vijainagar Ajmer to Todabhim.

Day 2: Panoramic Vistas & Cultural Immersion

Wake up to the refreshing mountain air and prepare for a day of spectacular views and cultural discoveries.

Morning Serenity:

• Sunrise Point: Begin your day early with a visit to Sunrise Point. Witnessing the dawn break over the Sahyadris is an ethereal experience, painting the sky with golden and crimson hues. It’s a moment of profound peace and natural beauty, offering a spectacular start to your day.
• Breakfast: Return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast, recharging for the day's explorations. Enjoy a mix of continental and local Indian breakfast options to suit your taste.

Mid-Morning Adventures:

• Governor's Hill (Table Land): Next, we proceed to Governor's Hill, also known as Table Land. This flat-topped plateau offers expansive views of the surrounding valleys and the picturesque Saputara town below. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, enjoying the cool breeze and the vastness of the landscape. For corporate groups, this serene location can be a perfect spot for light team-building activities or contemplative discussions amidst nature.
• Saputara Ropeway: Prepare for an exhilarating experience as you embark on the Saputara Ropeway. This cable car ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire hill station, the lake, and the dense forest cover. It’s a thrilling way to appreciate the topology of the region and capture stunning aerial photographs. The ride is safe and enjoyed by visitors of all ages, providing a unique perspective of Saputara's beauty.

Afternoon Cultural Immersion:

• Lunch Experience: Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some authentic tribal cuisine or regional Indian dishes. Saputara's eateries often emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Artist Village: Dive into the vibrant world of the Dangi tribe at the Artist Village. This unique cultural hub showcases the rich artistic heritage of the region, particularly known for its Warli paintings. Witness local artisans at work, creating intricate bamboo artefacts, tribal ornaments, and traditional Dangi art. You can interact with the artists, understand their techniques, and purchase exquisite handcrafted souvenirs, directly supporting the local community. It's a fascinating insight into indigenous Indian culture.

Evening Exploration & Relaxation:

• Waghai Botanical Garden (Optional): Depending on time and interest, you might visit the Waghai Botanical Garden, home to a diverse collection of plants and trees, providing a peaceful environment for nature lovers.
• Local Market Stroll: Alternatively, explore the local market. Saputara’s market offers a range of local produce, spices, honey, tribal handicrafts, and unique souvenirs. It's a great place to pick up gifts for loved ones or a memento of your trip.

Dinner:

• Indulge in dinner at a restaurant of your choice, sampling more of Saputara's diverse culinary offerings. Many hotels also have excellent in-house dining options.

After a day full of sights, experiences, and cultural exchanges, return to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay, reflecting on the beauty and uniqueness of Saputara. For those considering extending their exploration beyond Gujarat, reliable transport links are available, much like those connecting Vijainagar Ajmer to Taranagar.

Day 3: Nature's Embrace & Departure

Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast at your hotel, savouring the last moments of the mountain tranquility.

Morning Excursion:

• Gira Falls (Seasonal): If your visit coincides with the monsoon season (July to September) or immediately thereafter, a visit to the majestic Gira Falls is a must. Located about 50 km from Saputara, these wide, picturesque falls are a sight to behold as the Ambika River cascades down, creating a misty, enchanting atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for nature photography and enjoying the raw beauty of the Western Ghats.
• Hatgadh Fort (Historical Alternative): If Gira Falls is not in season or for those interested in history, we can explore Hatgadh Fort, located near Saputara. This ancient fort, though mostly in ruins, offers historical insights and panoramic views from its strategic position, providing a glimpse into the region's past.
• Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping: Before departure, you’ll have some time for any last-minute souvenir shopping or to revisit a favourite spot. Pick up some local honey, tribal art, or other unique items to remember your trip.

Departure:

After completing your morning activities and checking out from the hotel, you will be comfortably transferred to your onward destination, carrying with you memories of the serene landscapes, cultural richness, and refreshing experiences of Saputara. Every detail, from your comfortable stay to the scenic drives, is meticulously planned, reflecting the same dedication found in journeys like Vijainagar Ajmer to Takhatgarh.

Inclusion

Inclusions: What Your Package Covers

Our Saputara Hill Station tour is designed to be comprehensive and convenient, covering key aspects of your travel to ensure a worry-free experience:

• Accommodation: 2 nights’ stay in a comfortable, reputable hotel/resort in Saputara on a twin/double sharing basis.
• Meals: Daily breakfast served at your hotel, ensuring a delightful start to each day of your exploration.
• Transportation: All transfers and sightseeing as per the detailed itinerary in a private air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort and flexibility.
• Activities: One-time boating experience on Saputara Lake and one-time ride on the Saputara Ropeway.
• Taxes: All applicable government taxes and service charges related to the accommodation and transport are included, offering complete transparency.

We have carefully selected these inclusions to provide maximum value and convenience, allowing you to focus purely on enjoying the natural beauty and cultural richness of Saputara.

Exclusion

Exclusions: Aspects Not Covered

To help you plan your budget effectively, please note the following are generally not included in your package:

• Meals: Lunch and Dinner (unless specifically mentioned in the itinerary), allowing you the flexibility to explore Saputara’s diverse culinary scene at your leisure.
• Travel to/from Saputara: Airfare, train tickets, or bus fares to reach Saputara and for your return journey from your hometown/initial point.
• Entry Fees: Entrance fees to monuments, museums, parks, or any other attractions not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary.
• Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, mini-bar consumption, tips, gratuities, medical expenses, and souvenir shopping.
• Optional Activities: Any activities or experiences not explicitly listed in the 'Inclusions' section, such as additional boat rides, pony rides, extra ropeway rides, or guide services.
• Insurance: Travel insurance, which is highly recommended for all travellers.
• GST: Any applicable GST on components not part of the core package inclusions will be extra.

Understanding these exclusions will help you manage your expectations and finances for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Cancellation Policy: Important Information

We understand that unforeseen circumstances can sometimes lead to changes in travel plans. Our cancellation policy is designed to be fair and transparent:

• Prior to 30 Days: If you cancel your tour 30 days or more before the scheduled departure date, a nominal processing fee will be deducted, and the remaining amount will be refunded.
• 29 to 15 Days: For cancellations made between 29 to 15 days prior to departure, a percentage of the total tour cost will be non-refundable, covering initial booking and administrative expenses. The exact percentage will be specified at the time of booking confirmation.
• 14 to 7 Days: Cancellations within 14 to 7 days of the departure date will result in a higher percentage of the total tour cost being non-refundable.
• Less than 7 Days: No refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 7 days prior to the departure date, or for no-shows.
• Amendments: Any amendments to the booking after confirmation may be treated as cancellations and re-bookings, subject to applicable charges.
• Refund Processing: Refunds, if applicable, will be processed within a stipulated timeframe after receiving a written cancellation request.

We highly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover any potential losses due to unforeseen cancellations or changes. Specific terms and conditions will be provided at the time of booking.

Advance Preparation

Advance Preparation

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip to Saputara, we recommend the following preparations:

• Packing Essentials:
  • Clothing: Pack light, comfortable clothing for daytime. Evenings can be slightly cool, especially during winter months (October to March), so a light jacket, sweater, or shawl is advisable.
  • Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for sightseeing and exploring viewpoints.
  • Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended to protect against the sun.
  • Rain Gear (Monsoon): If travelling during the monsoon season (June to September), carry a compact umbrella or a light raincoat.
• Health & Medical: Carry any personal medication you require. A basic first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and common pain relievers is always useful.
• Photography Gear: Don’t forget your camera, extra batteries, and memory cards to capture Saputara's scenic beauty.
• Documents: Keep your ID proofs, booking confirmations, and any necessary permits (though generally not required for Saputara's main attractions) readily accessible.

Need to Know

Need-to-Know

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Saputara is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and cool, perfect for sightseeing. The monsoon season (June to September) transforms Saputara into a lush green paradise with overflowing waterfalls, but can have intermittent heavy rainfall. Summer (April to May) is relatively warm but still cooler than the plains.
• Weather: Saputara experiences mild summers, cool monsoons, and chilly winters. Check the forecast closer to your travel date.
• Connectivity: Mobile network connectivity is generally good in and around Saputara town, but can be patchy in remote areas. ATMs are available in the main town.
• Local Etiquette: While Saputara is a tourist-friendly destination, it's always respectful to follow local customs, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with tribal communities.
• Food & Water: Stick to bottled water for drinking. Explore local eateries, but ensure hygiene standards.
• Safety: Saputara is generally a safe destination. However, it’s always prudent to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.