Saputara is the only hill station in Gujarat and has become a preferred weekend destination in western India. Situated in Dang district bordering the state of Gujarat and Maharashtra, the place is ideal for families, couples, adventure enthusiasts and even those seeking the pleasure of road trips round the year. To travel without the risk of any unexpected hindrance, planning how to reach Saputara in advance is the best approach.
If you’re traveling by car, bus, train or plane, find out the Saputara distance from the main cities and the most convenient means of travel, as well as useful travel tips.
Where is Saputara Located?
Saputara is located in the Dang district of Gujarat near the border of Maharashtra. Being at an altitude of about 1,000 metres or 3,300 feet, it enjoys good climate, verdant valleys, monsoon waterfalls, and beautiful views. The lack of an airport in Saputara and limited railway connectivity necessitates that the travel to the destination be mostly done by road.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
| State | Gujarat |
| District | Dang |
| Elevation | Approx. 1,000 m |
| Nearest State | Maharashtra |
| Famous For | Hill station, lake, viewpoints, monsoon scenery |
| Best Way to Reach | By road |
Saputara Distance from Major Cities
The table below gives approximate road distances and travel times.
| City | Distance | Approx. Travel Time | Best Mode |
| Surat | 165 km | 4–4.5 hours | Car / Bus |
| Ahmedabad | 400 km | 8–9 hours | Car / Bus |
| Vadodara | 300 km | 6–7 hours | Car |
| Mumbai | 255 km | 6–7 hours | Car / Bus |
| Nashik | 80 km | 2 hours | Car / Taxi |
| Vapi | 145 km | 3.5–4 hours | Car |
| Navsari | 135 km | 3.5 hours | Car |
| Bilimora | 110 km | 2.5–3 hours | Taxi |
| Valsad | 130 km | 3–3.5 hours | Car |
| Rajkot | 650 km | 12–13 hours | Car |
| Pune | 345 km | 7–8 hours | Car |
Distances may vary slightly depending on the route and your starting point within the city.
How to Reach Saputara from Major Cities
From Surat
The distance between Surat to Saputara is around 165 Kms. It is one of the most common weekend road trips from Gujarat.
Best Route
Surat → Bardoli → Vyara → Ahwa → Saputara
Travel Time
Around 4 to 4.5 hours.
Road Condition
Roads are in quite good condition for the most part. The last section over the hills is lots of winding bends which are nice if you’re a careful driver.
Fuel Stops
Fuel stations are available in Surat, Bardoli, Vyara, and Ahwa. It is advisable to fill up before entering the hill section.
Food Stops
Several restaurants and tea stalls are available near Bardoli and Vyara.
Travel Tips
- Start early to avoid city traffic.
- Drive cautiously during the monsoon.
- Download offline maps before entering forest areas.
From Ahmedabad
The Saputara distance from Ahmedabad is approximately 400 km.
Best Route
Ahmedabad → Vadodara → Bharuch → Surat → Vyara → Ahwa → Saputara
Most of the journey is via national highways before entering the scenic hill roads.
Travel Time
Around 8 to 9 hours.
Road Quality
The highways are excellent. The final hill drive requires slower speeds because of curves.
Toll Roads
Expect toll plazas on major highways.
Travellers looking for public transport can choose a Saputara bus from Ahmedabad operated by GSRTC or private bus operators, depending on seasonal schedules. Check official booking platforms for current availability.
From Vadodara
The Vadodara to Saputara distance is approximately 300 km.
Best Route
Vadodara → Bharuch → Surat → Vyara → Ahwa → Saputara
Travel Time
Around 6 to 7 hours.
Suggested Stops
- Bharuch
- Surat
- Vyara
This route is comfortable for families and suitable for a weekend getaway.
From Mumbai
The Mumbai to Saputara distance is around 255 km.
Best Route
Mumbai → Kasara → Nashik → Saputara
Travel Time
Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Many private buses also connect Mumbai to Saputara during tourist seasons. Availability may vary, so confirm schedules before booking.
The drive becomes especially scenic after Nashik as you approach the hills.
From Nashik
The Nashik to Saputara distance is approximately 80 km.
This is the shortest and most scenic route.
Best Route
Nashik → Dindori → Saputara
Travel Time
Around 2 hours.
The road passes through beautiful countryside and gradually climbs into the hills.
Visitors returning can follow the same Saputara to Nashik route, which is equally enjoyable during winter and after the monsoon.
How to Reach Saputara by Road
Road travel is the easiest and most convenient way to reach Saputara. Most tourists drive their own vehicle, hire a taxi, or travel by bus for the final stretch.
Self-Drive
Ideal for families and groups. Roads are generally well maintained.
Taxi
Taxis are available from Surat, Nashik, Bilimora, and nearby railway stations.
Bike Trip
Many riders enjoy the road trip to Saputara because of its smooth highways and scenic hill drive. Wear proper riding gear and avoid speeding on bends.
Best Season
October to February offers pleasant weather, while the monsoon transforms the Dang forest into lush greenery. Drive carefully during heavy rain.
Saputara Ghat Road Guide
The Saputara ghat section is scenic and well maintained, but it requires careful driving.
- Multiple hairpin bends.
- Moderate driving difficulty.
- Roads are wide enough for two-way traffic in most sections.
- Reduce speed during rain because roads can become slippery.
- Avoid overtaking on blind curves.
- Night driving is possible but extra caution is recommended during the monsoon.
- Scenic viewpoints are available along the route.
- Fuel stations are limited near the hill section, so refuel before climbing.
How to Reach Saputara by Bus
Buses are an economical option for travellers who do not wish to drive.
GSRTC runs services from multiple cities in Gujarat, though private operators are possible to run seasonal routes. Bus types, duration and timings are subject to changes so kindly check the schedule before making a reservation.
| Bus Type | Available From | Suitable For |
| GSRTC Bus | Surat, Ahmedabad, Vadodara and other Gujarat cities | Budget travellers |
| Private Bus | Major Gujarat and Maharashtra cities | Comfortable travel |
| Sleeper Bus | Selected long-distance routes | Overnight journeys |
| Volvo / Premium | Seasonal availability on selected routes | Extra comfort |
How to Reach Saputara by Train
Saputara does not have its own railway station. Travellers usually continue by road after reaching the nearest station.
| Railway Station | Approx. Distance to Saputara | Remarks |
| Waghai Railway Station | Around 50 km | Nearest station with limited connectivity |
| Bilimora Railway Station | Around 110 km | Popular option with broader rail links |
| Surat Railway Station | Around 165 km | Best for long-distance trains |
| Nashik Road Railway Station | Around 90 km | Convenient for travellers from Maharashtra |
From these stations, taxis and local transport are available to complete the journey.
Nearest Airports to Saputara
The closest airports are located in Gujarat and Maharashtra.
| Airport | Approx. Distance | Best For |
| Surat | Around 170 km | South Gujarat |
| Nashik | Around 90 km | Maharashtra |
| Vadodara | Around 300 km | Central Gujarat |
| Mumbai | Around 270 km | International travellers |
| Ahmedabad | Around 410 km | North Gujarat |
From the airport, continue by taxi or bus.
Which is the Best Way to Reach Saputara?
Families
Self-drive or hired taxis offer flexibility and comfort.
Couples
A road trip from Surat or Nashik is scenic and enjoyable.
Solo Travellers
GSRTC buses are affordable and convenient.
Budget Travellers
A train to Bilimora or Surat followed by a bus or taxi can be cost-effective.
Road Trip Lovers
Driving through the Dang forest and mountain roads provides the best overall experience.
Travel Tips
- Visit between October and February for pleasant weather.
- Monsoon offers beautiful greenery but requires careful driving.
- Fill your fuel tank before entering the hill section.
- Carry both cash and UPI payment options.
- Mobile networks may be weaker in some forest stretches.
- Keep drinking water and light snacks for the journey.
- Drive slowly on hairpin bends.
- Wear comfortable clothing, especially during winter mornings.
- Carry basic medicines and a first-aid kit.
- Avoid late-night driving during heavy rain.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to reach Saputara from Surat?
Drive through Bardoli, Vyara, and Ahwa, or you could use a GSRTC or private bus if available.
2. How much distance is there from Surat to Saputara?
About 165 km on road.
3. How much distance is there between Saputara and Ahmedabad?
Around 400 km.
4. Which is the nearest railway station to Saputara?
Waghai Railway Station is the nearest one, whereas Bilimora is connected with a good railway station.
5. Does a train go directly to Saputara?
No. It is necessary to travel the last few kilometers on the road.
6. Are buses available from Ahmedabad to Saputara?
GSRTC and some private operators may run services. Check the latest schedules before travelling.
7. What is the Nashik to Saputara distance?
Approximately 80 km.
9. Which is the best route for a road trip to Saputara?
The routes from Surat and Nashik are among the most scenic and convenient.
10. Which season is best for visiting Saputara?
Winter offers pleasant weather, while the monsoon is ideal for lush green landscapes and waterfalls.
Planning your trip? Read our complete Saputara Travel Guide for top attractions, hotels, food, itinerary, and local travel tips.
Conclusion
Saputara is easily accessible, with road transportation being the best method. The family traveler would enjoy his/her experience through self-driving, couples can take pleasure in the picturesque journey from either Nashik or Surat, while economical tourists can make use of both trains and buses, and bicycle enthusiasts would certainly love the mountainous route.
Regardless of which way you take, ensure that you plan accordingly and consult the recent travel information on the Internet to reach one of the coolest mountain stations in Gujarat.