Saputara is a beautiful hill station located in the Dang district of Gujarat, known for its cool climate and scenic views. Indore, a major city in Madhya Pradesh, serves as a common starting point for travelers heading to Saputara due to its connectivity and facilities.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Indore to Saputara, covering trains, buses, cars, and flights where applicable. You will also find practical travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on what to expect upon arrival.

Getting from Indore to Saputara – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a comfortable and economical option, though Saputara does not have a direct railway station. You can take a train from Indore to nearby stations and then continue by road.

• Indore Junction (INDB) is the main railway station with frequent trains to Surat and Navapur, which are the closest major stations to Saputara, approximately 120-140 km away by road.

• Train travel time from Indore to Surat ranges from 6 to 8 hours, with fares typically between ₹300 and ₹700 depending on class and train type.

• From Surat or Navapur, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Saputara, which takes about 3 to 4 hours over hilly terrain with scenic but winding roads.

• Trains are generally reliable but can be crowded during festivals and holiday seasons, so booking tickets early via IRCTC is advisable.

• Night trains are available, allowing you to save daytime for sightseeing, but be prepared for last-mile travel after arrival at Surat or Navapur stations.

Bus

Buses offer a direct and affordable way to reach Saputara from Indore, suitable for budget travelers and those who prefer road travel.

• MSRTC and private operators run buses from Indore to Saputara, with journey times ranging from 8 to 10 hours depending on the service and route taken.

• Direct Volvo and deluxe buses provide comfortable seating and air conditioning, with fares between ₹400 and ₹800, while ordinary buses are cheaper but less comfortable.

• Buses usually depart from Indore’s main bus stands like Rajwada or Sarwate Bus Stand, with multiple daily services, especially in the morning and evening.

• The route passes through NH52 and NH848, with toll plazas and rest stops offering local snacks and refreshments, but expect slower travel during monsoon due to slippery roads.

• Booking tickets online through MSRTC or private bus portals is recommended to secure seats, especially during weekends and holidays.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Indore to Saputara is a popular choice for travelers who want flexibility and to explore en route at their own pace.

• The distance by road is approximately 280 to 300 km, taking around 6 to 7 hours via NH52 and NH848, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route includes well-maintained highways but also hilly stretches near Saputara, so driving experience on winding roads is helpful for safety.

• Toll plazas are present on NH52 and NH848, so keep cash or FASTag ready to avoid delays at toll booths.

• There are several rest stops and dhabas along the way offering local Maharashtrian and Gujarati cuisine, ideal for breaks during the journey.

• Self-drive cars or rental cabs can be booked from Indore through popular platforms like Zoomcar or local agencies, with daily rental costs varying based on vehicle type.

Flight

There is no direct flight to Saputara, but flying can be combined with road travel for faster access from Indore.

• The nearest airport to Saputara is Surat Airport (STV), about 120 km away, which has regular flights from Indore’s Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (IDR).

• Flight duration is about 1 hour, with fares ranging from ₹1500 to ₹3500 depending on booking time and airline.

• From Surat Airport, you can hire prepaid taxis or use app-based cabs like Ola and Uber to reach Saputara in approximately 3 to 4 hours.

• Flights are convenient for travelers short on time but consider the additional road travel and local transport availability upon arrival.

• Booking flights early and checking for seasonal price fluctuations can help save costs, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Indore to Saputara, helping you organize your trip smoothly.

• Book your preferred mode of transport in advance, whether train tickets via IRCTC, bus seats through MSRTC, or flights through airline portals, to avoid last-minute hassles.

• If traveling by train, choose a train to Surat or Navapur and arrange a taxi or bus from there to Saputara; confirm local transport availability before departure.

• For bus travelers, check the latest bus schedules online or at Indore bus stands, and arrive early to secure your seat, especially during weekends or holidays.

• If driving, plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps, check vehicle condition, and start early in the day to avoid night driving on hilly roads.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, as some stretches have limited facilities; also carry cash for tolls and small purchases.

• On arrival in Saputara, use local shared jeeps or taxis to reach your accommodation, and confirm your hotel booking beforehand to ensure a smooth check-in.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water during the journey to prevent stomach issues common in Indian travel, especially in hilly areas like Saputara.

• Book tickets online whenever possible to avoid queues and scams, especially for trains and buses; use trusted platforms like IRCTC and MSRTC official sites.

• Be cautious with your belongings in crowded places like bus stands and railway stations; keep valuables in a secure bag and avoid displaying expensive items.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Surat and Saputara to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• During monsoon season, roads to Saputara can be slippery and prone to landslides; check weather updates and travel advisories before starting your journey.

• Carry light luggage and comfortable footwear, as Saputara involves walking on uneven terrain and hill paths, especially near tourist spots.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

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

Monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rainfall, which can cause delays and slippery roads, so extra caution is needed if traveling then.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and Navratri when trains and buses are overcrowded and prices rise.

• Early morning departures are recommended to avoid city traffic in Indore and to reach Saputara before dusk, especially when driving.

• Winter fog in December and January can reduce visibility on highways, so allow extra travel time and drive carefully if self-driving.

• Summer months can be hot in Indore but Saputara offers a cool retreat; plan your journey to arrive in the afternoon to enjoy the hill station climate.

Arrival at Saputara & What to Expect

On arrival in Saputara, you will find a small but well-developed hill station with basic transport options and tourist facilities. The main entry points are the local bus stand and taxi drop-off areas near the market.

Local transport includes shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, and taxis that can take you to hotels or tourist spots. Most accommodations are located near the lake or main market area, which is convenient for exploring on foot.

Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs are less common but available in Surat and nearby towns; in Saputara, negotiate fares in advance for private taxis. Walking is often the best way to enjoy the town’s attractions.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Saputara from Indore depends on your priorities. Train travel combined with road transport offers a budget-friendly and comfortable option, while buses provide direct connectivity with reasonable fares. Driving yourself gives flexibility and the chance to enjoy scenic stops along the way. Flights to Surat followed by road travel are best for those short on time.

Planning ahead by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and preparing for last-mile travel will make your journey smoother. With this guide, you can confidently choose the best travel mode and enjoy the beautiful hill station of Saputara without stress.