Saputara is a beautiful hill station located in the Dang district of Gujarat, near the Maharashtra border. Ahmedabad, a major city in Gujarat, serves as a common starting point for travelers heading to Saputara for its cool climate and scenic views.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Ahmedabad to Saputara, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed information on travel times, routes, fares, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Ahmedabad to Saputara – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is suitable if you want a comfortable and affordable journey to the nearest railway station. However, Saputara itself does not have a railway station, so you will need to combine train travel with road transport.

• The closest railway station to Saputara is Waghai, about 30 km away, connected to Ahmedabad via trains on the Ahmedabad–Valsad route. Trains take around 6 to 8 hours depending on the service.

• Ahmedabad Junction (ADI) is the main station with frequent trains to Waghai and nearby stations like Valsad and Navsari, which are well connected by road to Saputara.

• Train fares vary between INR 150 to 600 depending on class and train type; sleeper and general classes are economical but can be crowded during holidays.

• Trains run regularly but booking through IRCTC in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and festival seasons to avoid last-minute hassles.

• From Waghai or Valsad station, you can hire local taxis or take state buses for the 30 to 60-minute drive to Saputara, which involves hilly roads and scenic views.

Bus

Buses are a popular and cost-effective way to reach Saputara from Ahmedabad. Several state-run and private buses operate on this route daily.

• Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) runs direct buses from Ahmedabad Central Bus Station to Saputara, taking approximately 6 to 7 hours covering around 250 km.

• Bus fares range from INR 200 to 500 depending on the type of bus, such as ordinary, semi-deluxe, or Volvo AC coaches, with Volvo buses offering more comfort.

• Buses depart frequently in the morning and evening, but it is advisable to book tickets online or at the bus station in advance during peak tourist seasons.

• The route passes through National Highway 48 and State Highway 88, with several rest stops offering local snacks and tea, but monsoon rains can cause delays due to slippery roads.

• Last-mile connectivity from Saputara bus stand to hotels is usually via local auto-rickshaws or shared taxis, which are easily available.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Ahmedabad to Saputara is a flexible and scenic option, ideal if you prefer to travel at your own pace and explore en route.

• The distance is approximately 250 km via NH48 and SH88, and the drive typically takes 5.5 to 7 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route passes through towns like Valsad and Waghai, with well-maintained highways and toll plazas; toll charges may total around INR 200 to 300 one way.

• Self-drive car rentals are available in Ahmedabad with daily rates starting from INR 1500, including fuel and driver options if needed.

• Driving during monsoon requires caution due to slippery and winding roads near Saputara; avoid night driving in the hills for safety.

• There are several roadside dhabas and restaurants along NH48 for meals and breaks, and petrol pumps are available regularly on the route.

Flight

Flying is not a direct option to Saputara as it does not have an airport. However, you can fly from Ahmedabad to nearby airports and continue by road.

• The nearest airport to Saputara is Surat Airport, about 120 km away, which has regular flights from Ahmedabad taking around 1 hour.

• From Surat Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Saputara, which takes approximately 3 to 4 hours by road on NH48 and SH88.

• Flight fares between Ahmedabad and Surat vary widely, generally ranging from INR 1500 to 4000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• Surat has good taxi services and bus connections, but pre-booking a cab is advisable for a hassle-free transfer to Saputara.

• Flying is suitable if you want to save time on the initial leg but be prepared for a longer road journey afterward to reach Saputara.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers from Ahmedabad to Saputara to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Book your train or bus tickets online in advance through IRCTC or GSRTC websites to secure seats and avoid last-minute rush, especially during holidays.

• If traveling by train, choose a train that arrives at Waghai or Valsad early in the day to allow enough time for the road journey to Saputara before dark.

• Arrange local transport from the railway station or bus stand to Saputara in advance by contacting hotels or using trusted taxi services to avoid waiting and overcharging.

• If driving, check your vehicle’s condition, carry a physical map or GPS device, and plan rest stops along NH48 and SH88 for meals and fuel.

• Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon and warm clothes for Saputara’s cooler climate, as the hill station can be chilly in the evenings.

• Keep your phone charged and download offline maps or travel apps like Ola or Uber for local transport once you reach Saputara for easy commuting.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues, especially when traveling by bus or train.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for safer and transparent fares when commuting locally in Saputara.

• Book accommodations in Saputara well in advance during peak seasons like winter and holidays to avoid unavailability and high prices.

• Carry some cash in small denominations as many local shops and transport providers may not accept digital payments in remote areas.

• Be cautious of slippery roads and landslides during monsoon; check weather updates and avoid traveling during heavy rains.

• Keep your luggage light and secure, especially if you plan to use multiple transport modes, and carry a small first aid kit for emergencies.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Ahmedabad to Saputara is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are safe.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains that can cause roadblocks and slippery conditions, making travel slower and riskier.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Navratri when roads and trains are crowded, and fares may surge.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic in Ahmedabad and reach Saputara before dusk.

• Winter mornings can be foggy on the highway, so plan your drive accordingly to maintain safety.

• Summer months can be hot in Ahmedabad but cooler in Saputara; carry sun protection and stay hydrated.

Arrival at Saputara & What to Expect

When you arrive at Saputara, you will find a small but well-organized hill station with limited public transport options. The main arrival points are the Saputara bus stand and nearby taxi stands.

Local transport includes auto-rickshaws, shared jeeps, and app-based cabs, which are convenient for reaching hotels and tourist spots. Most hotels offer pickup services if informed in advance.

The town center has several guesthouses, resorts, and budget hotels clustered near the Saputara Lake and Sunset Point, which are popular areas to stay. Walking is also a pleasant way to explore the compact town.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to travel from Ahmedabad to Saputara depends on your preferences. For budget travelers, taking a direct GSRTC bus is convenient and economical. If you prefer comfort and flexibility, driving or hiring a car is ideal, especially for families or groups.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and arranging local transport will help you enjoy a hassle-free journey. With proper preparation, you can confidently explore Saputara’s natural beauty and cool climate without stress.