Saputara is a popular hill station located in the Dang district of Gujarat, known for its cool climate and scenic beauty. Bilimora, a town in Navsari district, Gujarat, serves as a common starting point for travelers heading to Saputara due to its connectivity and proximity.

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

Getting from Bilimora to Saputara – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is suitable if you want a relaxed journey and to enjoy the scenic route up to Bilimora. However, Saputara itself does not have a railway station, so you will need to combine train travel with road transport.

• Bilimora Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Surat and Mumbai, with frequent trains running daily. The station is about 55 km from Saputara by road.

• From Bilimora, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Saputara, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Train fares to Bilimora from nearby cities range from ₹50 to ₹300, depending on class and distance, making it an economical choice for part of your journey.

• Trains can be crowded during weekends and holidays, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Monsoon season (June to September) may cause delays due to waterlogging or landslides near the Western Ghats, so check train running status before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a popular and affordable way to reach Saputara from Bilimora, especially for budget travelers. Both government and private buses operate on this route with varying comfort levels.

• State transport buses operated by GSRTC run regularly from Bilimora Bus Depot to Saputara, covering the 55 km distance in about 2.5 to 3 hours.

• Private buses and shared taxis offer more flexible timings but may charge higher fares, typically between ₹100 and ₹200 per person.

• Buses usually depart early morning and late afternoon; avoid traveling at night due to hilly terrain and limited lighting on NH953.

• During peak tourist season and weekends, buses can get crowded, so arriving early at the bus stand is advisable to secure a seat.

• There are several rest stops along the route with local eateries offering snacks and tea, useful for breaks during the journey.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bilimora to Saputara is one of the most convenient options, giving you flexibility to stop and explore en route. The roads are generally in good condition, with scenic views along the way.

• The distance between Bilimora and Saputara is approximately 55 km via NH953 and State Highway 88, and the drive usually takes 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic.

• Driving yourself or hiring a private cab allows you to start at your preferred time and visit nearby attractions like Gira Waterfalls or Vansda National Park.

• Toll plazas are present on NH953; expect to pay small toll fees totaling around ₹50 to ₹100 for the one-way trip.

• During monsoon, roads can be slippery and visibility low, so drive cautiously and avoid night driving in hilly sections.

• Fuel stations are available in Bilimora and along the route, but carrying some water and snacks is advisable for comfort during the journey.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Bilimora to Saputara is a comfortable and hassle-free option, especially if you prefer door-to-door service without driving yourself.

• Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber may not be widely available in Bilimora, so booking a private cab through local operators or hotels is common.

• Taxi fares for the 55 km trip typically range from ₹1500 to ₹2500 one-way, depending on vehicle type and negotiation.

• Private taxis offer flexibility to stop at viewpoints or local markets along the way, enhancing your travel experience.

• Booking your taxi a day in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and festival seasons, to ensure availability.

• Ensure the taxi driver is familiar with the route to Saputara, as some roads can be narrow and winding in the hills.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Bilimora to Saputara, helping you organize your journey smoothly.

• Book your train ticket to Bilimora in advance via IRCTC to avoid last-minute unavailability and ensure a confirmed seat on your preferred train.

• Upon arrival at Bilimora Railway Station, locate the nearby bus stand or taxi services; ask locals or use Google Maps for directions to avoid confusion.

• If taking a bus, buy your ticket at the GSRTC counter early in the morning to secure a seat, as buses fill up quickly during tourist season.

• If hiring a taxi, confirm the fare and route before starting the journey to Saputara to avoid misunderstandings and ensure a fair price.

• Carry light luggage and pack water and snacks, especially if traveling by bus or self-drive, as stops are limited and food options sparse on the highway.

• Keep your phone charged and have offline maps downloaded, as mobile network coverage can be patchy in the hilly areas near Saputara.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry a bottle of drinking water and avoid consuming roadside water to prevent stomach issues common during Indian road trips.

• Use prepaid taxi services or trusted local operators to avoid overcharging and ensure safety when hiring cabs in Bilimora.

• During monsoon, check weather updates and road conditions before starting your journey, as landslides or roadblocks can cause delays.

• Pack light, breathable clothing for daytime and a warm layer for evenings in Saputara, as hill stations can get chilly after sunset.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items openly, especially in crowded bus stands or markets.

• Use local transport like auto-rickshaws or shared jeeps within Saputara for short distances; negotiate fares beforehand to avoid confusion.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bilimora to Saputara is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains to prevent delays and safety risks.

Peak tourist season in Saputara is during winter and festival periods like Diwali and Christmas, so plan your travel accordingly to avoid crowded buses and accommodation shortages.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon months of June to September due to slippery roads and possible landslides on the route.

• Early morning departures are ideal to avoid traffic and enjoy daylight driving through the scenic hills.

• Festivals and weekends see increased traffic on NH953, so book transport and accommodation well in advance.

• Fog can reduce visibility during winter mornings, so drive carefully if traveling by car or taxi at dawn.

Arrival at Saputara & What to Expect

On arrival in Saputara, you will find a small but well-developed hill station with several local transport options. The main bus stand and taxi drop-off points are close to the town center, making it easy to reach your accommodation.

Auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps are common for local travel within Saputara, with fares generally affordable and negotiable. Popular stay areas include the Saputara Lake vicinity and the main market, both offering easy access to attractions and eateries.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Saputara from Bilimora depends on your preferences for comfort, budget, and flexibility. Train travel combined with a taxi or bus offers an economical and scenic route, while self-driving or hiring a private cab provides convenience and freedom to explore.

Planning ahead by booking tickets and taxis early, checking weather conditions, and packing appropriately will ensure a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently plan your trip from Bilimora to Saputara and enjoy the beautiful hill station without stress.