Saputara is a beautiful hill station located in the Dang district of Gujarat, known for its cool climate and scenic views. Bilimora Railway Station lies in Navsari district and serves as a key railhead for travelers heading towards Saputara. This route is popular among tourists seeking a quick getaway from the plains to the hills.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Bilimora Railway Station to Saputara, covering trains, buses, cars, and practical travel tips. You will learn about travel times, fares, and what to expect on this journey.

Getting from Bilimora Railway Station to Saputara – Main Options

Train

There is no direct train from Bilimora to Saputara since Saputara does not have a railway station. However, trains are useful to reach Bilimora itself, which is the nearest railhead to Saputara.

• Bilimora Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Surat, Mumbai, and Vadodara, making it accessible for travelers coming from different parts of India.

• From Bilimora, you will need to use road transport to reach Saputara, as the hill station is about 55 km away by road, with no direct rail link.

• Trains to Bilimora run frequently, with fares ranging from INR 50 to INR 500 depending on class and distance, offering a comfortable and economical option to reach the base point.

• Booking tickets via IRCTC or at station counters is advisable, especially during weekends and holidays when tourist traffic increases.

• Bilimora station has basic amenities but can get crowded during peak travel seasons, so plan your arrival accordingly.

Bus

Buses are the most common mode of transport from Bilimora to Saputara, offering direct connectivity and frequent services. This option suits budget travelers and those who prefer public transport.

• State-run buses by GSRTC operate regularly from Bilimora Bus Stand to Saputara, covering the 55 km distance in around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• Bus fares typically range from INR 50 to INR 150, with options including ordinary and deluxe buses, providing flexibility in comfort and price.

• Buses depart every 30 to 60 minutes from early morning till evening, but frequency reduces after sunset, so plan your trip accordingly.

• The route passes through NH 848 and SH 88, with scenic views but some winding roads as you approach Saputara, so be prepared for a hill drive.

• During monsoon season, landslides or roadblocks can cause delays, so check local weather and road conditions before traveling.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Bilimora to Saputara is a popular choice for travelers who want flexibility and comfort. The route is scenic but involves hilly terrain near Saputara.

• The distance by road is approximately 55 km via NH 848 and SH 88, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and weather.

• You can hire a taxi or rent a self-drive car from Bilimora town or nearby cities like Surat; fares for taxis range from INR 1500 to INR 2500 one way.

• The road is well-maintained but includes winding sections as you ascend to Saputara, so cautious driving is advised, especially during monsoon or foggy mornings.

• There are toll plazas on NH 848, so keep some cash handy for toll payments along the way.

• Several rest stops and dhabas are available en route for refreshments, including local Gujarati snacks and tea.

• Using GPS navigation apps like Google Maps helps avoid wrong turns, as some smaller roads near Saputara can be confusing for first-time drivers.

Flight

There is no direct flight connectivity to Saputara or Bilimora. The nearest airports are Surat and Mumbai, which are far from Saputara, making flights impractical for this route.

• Surat Airport is about 120 km from Saputara and offers domestic flights connecting to major Indian cities.

• From Surat Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bilimora or directly to Saputara, but the road journey will be around 3 to 4 hours.

• Mumbai Airport is approximately 250 km away, suitable only if you plan to combine your trip with a visit to Mumbai or nearby areas.

• Flight fares vary widely depending on the season and booking time, but overall, flying is not the most convenient option for reaching Saputara.

• For travelers arriving by air, pre-booking taxis or cabs from Surat to Saputara is recommended to avoid last-minute hassles.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Bilimora Railway Station to Saputara, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

• Step 1: Arrive at Bilimora Railway Station by train. Check your train timings on IRCTC and book tickets in advance to avoid last-minute rush, especially on weekends.

• Step 2: Exit the station and head to Bilimora Bus Stand or taxi stands. Confirm bus or taxi availability to Saputara before arrival to save waiting time.

• Step 3: Choose your preferred mode of road transport—state bus for budget travel or taxi/self-drive for comfort and flexibility.

• Step 4: Start your road journey via NH 848 and SH 88. Carry water and light snacks, as the hill section has fewer eateries.

• Step 5: On arrival in Saputara, use local auto-rickshaws or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for last-mile travel to hotels or tourist spots.

• Step 6: Keep emergency contacts handy, including local taxi numbers and hotel details, especially if traveling during monsoon or late evening hours.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water to prevent stomach issues common in hill stations.

• Book train and bus tickets online via IRCTC and GSRTC portals to secure seats and avoid overcrowding at counters.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs from Bilimora and Saputara to avoid overcharging by local drivers.

• Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon months, as sudden showers are frequent in the Saputara region.

• Keep your valuables secure and avoid traveling alone late at night on isolated roads between Bilimora and Saputara.

• Carry cash in small denominations for tolls, local transport, and small purchases, as digital payment acceptance may be limited in remote areas.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Bilimora to Saputara is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and roads are dry. Summers can be warm in Bilimora but cooler in Saputara.

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rains, making the hill roads slippery and sometimes causing delays or roadblocks.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Navratri when trains and buses are crowded and accommodation in Saputara fills up quickly.

• Foggy mornings in winter can reduce visibility on hill roads, so start your journey after sunrise for safer travel.

• Depart early in the day to avoid traffic jams on NH 848, especially on weekends when tourists flock to Saputara.

Arrival at Saputara & What to Expect

When you arrive in Saputara, you will find a small but well-developed hill station with several local transport options. The main bus stand and taxi drop points are close to the town center.

Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs like Ola and Uber operate in Saputara, making it easy to reach your hotel or tourist spots. Popular areas to stay include the Saputara Lake area and the main market street, both within walking distance of amenities.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Saputara from Bilimora Railway Station is by combining train travel to Bilimora with a bus or taxi ride to Saputara. This approach balances cost, comfort, and convenience for most travelers.

Planning ahead by booking train and bus tickets online, checking weather conditions, and choosing the right time to travel will help you enjoy a smooth journey. With this guide, you can confidently make your travel plans and look forward to a refreshing hill station experience in Saputara.