Saputara is a popular hill station located in the Dang district of Gujarat, nestled in the Western Ghats. Surat, a major city in Gujarat, serves as a common starting point for travelers heading to Saputara for its cool climate and scenic beauty.

This guide will help you understand the best ways to travel from Surat to Saputara, covering trains, buses, cars, and taxis. You will also find practical tips, travel plans, and what to expect upon arrival to make your journey comfortable and hassle-free.

Getting from Surat to Saputara – Main Options

Train

Train travel between Surat and Saputara is limited as Saputara does not have its own railway station. However, you can take a train to the nearest station and continue by road. This option suits travelers who prefer rail for part of their journey.

• The closest railway station to Saputara is Waghai, about 35 km away, accessible via Surat railway station which is a major junction on the Western Railway network.

• Trains from Surat to Waghai take approximately 4 to 5 hours, with fares ranging from ₹100 to ₹300 depending on the class of travel and train type.

• From Waghai station, you will need to hire a taxi or take a local bus to Saputara, which takes about 1 hour on hilly roads.

• Train frequency from Surat to Waghai is limited, so booking tickets in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.

• Monsoon season may cause delays on this route due to landslides or track maintenance in the Western Ghats region.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to travel from Surat to Saputara. State-run and private buses operate regularly, making this a convenient option for most travelers.

• Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) runs direct buses from Surat Central Bus Station to Saputara, with journey times around 4 to 5 hours covering approximately 165 km.

• Bus fares typically range between ₹150 and ₹300, depending on the type of bus such as ordinary, deluxe, or Volvo services.

• Buses depart frequently throughout the day, but it is best to check schedules online or at the bus station, especially during festival seasons when buses are crowded.

• The route follows National Highway 53 and State Highway 88, passing through scenic but winding roads, so expect slower travel during monsoon due to slippery conditions.

• There are several rest stops with basic food stalls and washrooms along the way, including at Vyara and Waghai, which are good places to stretch and refresh.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Surat to Saputara is a flexible and comfortable option, ideal for families or groups wanting to explore at their own pace. The route is scenic but involves hilly terrain near Saputara.

• The distance by road is about 165 km, taking roughly 4 to 5 hours via NH53 and SH88, depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route passes through Vyara and Waghai, with multiple toll plazas where you will need to pay toll fees, so keep cash or FASTag ready.

• Road conditions are generally good on the highways, but the last 30 km towards Saputara involve narrow, winding roads requiring careful driving, especially during monsoon.

• Fuel stations are available in Vyara and Waghai, but it is advisable to fill up in Surat before starting the journey to avoid delays.

• Parking facilities are available in Saputara near the main tourist spots, but weekends and holidays can be crowded, so arrive early to secure a spot.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Surat to Saputara is a convenient and comfortable choice, especially if you prefer door-to-door service without the hassle of driving yourself.

• Ola and Uber offer outstation cab services from Surat to Saputara, with fares typically ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹4,500 one way depending on vehicle type.

• Local taxi operators also provide fixed-rate packages for day trips or overnight stays, which can be negotiated in advance.

• The journey time is about 4 to 5 hours, with drivers familiar with the hilly roads and best routes to avoid traffic.

• Booking taxis in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons and weekends to ensure availability and better rates.

• Some taxis offer sightseeing packages around Saputara, including visits to Sunset Point, Lake Garden, and Gira Falls, which can be convenient for first-time visitors.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This travel plan is designed for first-time travelers from Surat to Saputara to help you organize your trip smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Book your preferred mode of transport early, especially trains and buses, using IRCTC or GSRTC online portals to secure confirmed seats and avoid last-minute rush.

• If traveling by train, check the timings for trains to Waghai and arrange local transport from Waghai station to Saputara in advance to avoid waiting.

• For bus travel, arrive at Surat Central Bus Station at least 30 minutes before departure to get good seats and confirm the bus type and route with the conductor.

• If driving, plan your route using GPS apps like Google Maps, check vehicle condition, and start early in the morning to avoid traffic and reach Saputara before dark.

• When hiring a taxi, confirm the fare and itinerary beforehand, carry contact details of the driver, and keep your phone charged for communication during the trip.

• Pack light but include essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear during monsoon, and keep your ID and booking confirmations handy throughout the journey.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water in Saputara to prevent stomach issues, as local water quality may vary.

• Book tickets online to avoid queues and scams, especially for GSRTC buses and IRCTC trains, which are popular among local travelers.

• Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber in Surat and Saputara to ensure fair pricing and safety.

• During monsoon, check weather updates as heavy rains can cause landslides and roadblocks on the route to Saputara.

• Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring Saputara’s hilly terrain and carry a light jacket as evenings can be cool.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use digital payments where possible for convenience and safety.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Surat to Saputara is during the cooler months from October to March when the weather is pleasant and roads are safer. Avoid the peak monsoon months from June to September due to heavy rains and possible road disruptions.

Festival seasons like Diwali and New Year see increased traffic on this route, so plan your travel accordingly to avoid delays and crowded transport.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon season as heavy rains can cause slippery roads and landslides, especially near Saputara’s hills.

• Early morning departures help you avoid city traffic in Surat and reach Saputara before sunset, making the drive safer and more enjoyable.

• Weekends and public holidays see a surge in travelers to Saputara, so book transport and accommodation well in advance.

• Winter months offer clear roads and comfortable temperatures, making it the ideal season for this journey.

Arrival at Saputara & What to Expect

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

Local transport includes shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, and taxis that can take you to attractions like the Saputara Lake, Sunset Point, and the Tribal Museum. Many hotels offer pickup services if informed in advance.

Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels near the lake and market area. Prepaid taxis and app-based cabs like Ola are limited, so it is advisable to negotiate fares beforehand or use hotel-arranged transport.

The town is compact, so walking is also a good option for short distances, but be prepared for some uphill climbs due to the terrain.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Saputara from Surat depends on your preferences. If you want comfort and flexibility, driving or hiring a taxi is ideal. For budget travelers, buses offer a reliable and economical option. Train travel is possible but requires additional road transport from Waghai station.

Plan your journey by booking tickets early, checking weather conditions, and starting early to avoid traffic and monsoon delays. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and scenic trip from Surat to Saputara, making the most of this beautiful hill station’s natural charm and cool climate.