Saputara is a beautiful hill station located in the Dang district of Gujarat, near the Maharashtra border. Thane, a bustling city near Mumbai, serves as a common starting point for travelers heading to this serene getaway. This route is popular among weekend travelers and nature lovers looking to escape city life.

This guide will help you understand all the main ways to travel from Thane to Saputara. You will learn about trains, buses, driving options, and practical tips to plan your trip confidently and comfortably.

Getting from Thane to Saputara – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a less direct but affordable option. There is no direct train to Saputara, so you will need to combine train and road transport. This option suits budget travelers who enjoy scenic train rides.

• You can board a train from Thane Railway Station to Valsad Railway Station, which is the nearest major railhead to Saputara, approximately 115 km away by road.

• The train journey takes about 3 to 4 hours depending on the train, with fares ranging from ₹150 to ₹400 for second class and sleeper classes.

• From Valsad, you can hire a taxi or take a state transport bus to Saputara, which takes around 3 hours on winding hill roads.

• Trains run frequently throughout the day, but booking in advance via IRCTC is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.

• Monsoon season may cause delays due to landslides or track maintenance near the Western Ghats, so check train status before traveling.

Bus

Buses are a popular and economical way to reach Saputara from Thane. Both government and private operators run services connecting these points, offering flexibility and decent comfort.

• MSRTC and Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation run buses from Thane to Saputara, often with a change at Valsad or Navsari bus depots.

• The total bus journey takes about 7 to 9 hours covering roughly 180 km, with fares ranging from ₹200 to ₹500 depending on the bus type.

• Volvo and deluxe buses offer more comfort and fewer stops but run less frequently than regular buses.

• Bus frequency is higher in the morning and evening, but buses can get crowded during festivals and weekends, so book tickets early.

• Road conditions on NH848 and connecting state highways are generally good, but monsoon rains can cause occasional delays and slippery roads.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Thane to Saputara is a convenient and flexible option, especially for families or groups. The route offers scenic views and several places to stop along the way.

• The distance between Thane and Saputara is about 180 km via NH848 and NH53, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.

• The route passes through key towns like Vapi and Valsad, with multiple toll plazas; toll charges may total around ₹200 to ₹300 one way.

• Fuel stations and eateries are available along the highway, with popular stops near Vapi and Valsad for refreshments and rest.

• Driving during early morning hours helps avoid city traffic in Thane and Mumbai suburbs, making the journey smoother.

• During monsoon, the roads can be slippery and foggy near Saputara; drive cautiously and avoid night driving in hilly sections.

Taxi / Cab

Hiring a taxi or cab from Thane to Saputara is a comfortable but costlier option. It suits travelers who prefer door-to-door service without the hassle of transfers.

• You can book prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for a one-way trip; fares typically range from ₹4000 to ₹6000 depending on vehicle type.

• Most taxi drivers are familiar with the route via NH848 and can suggest good stops and scenic viewpoints en route.

• Booking a round trip with the same driver can sometimes reduce costs and ensure availability for return travel.

• Taxi services are available 24/7, but booking in advance during weekends and holidays is recommended to avoid last-minute price hikes.

• Ensure the taxi has proper permits for interstate travel, as Saputara is in Gujarat and Thane is in Maharashtra.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This plan is designed for first-time travelers from Thane to Saputara, helping you organize your journey smoothly and avoid common pitfalls.

• Step 1: Decide your preferred mode of transport based on budget, comfort, and time. For quick and flexible travel, consider self-drive or taxi; for budget travel, choose bus or train plus taxi.

• Step 2: Book your tickets in advance. Use IRCTC for trains, MSRTC or GSRTC websites for buses, and reliable apps for taxis. Advance booking helps secure seats and better fares.

• Step 3: Pack essentials like water, snacks, and a light jacket, especially during monsoon or winter. Saputara’s weather can be cooler and wetter than Thane.

• Step 4: Reach your departure point early. Thane station and bus depots can be crowded, so arriving 30 minutes before departure helps avoid rush and last-minute stress.

• Step 5: On arrival at Saputara, use local shared jeeps or auto-rickshaws to reach your accommodation. Prepaid taxis are available at the bus stand and railway station areas.

• Step 6: Keep emergency contacts handy, including local taxi numbers and your hotel’s phone. Mobile network coverage is good but can be patchy in some hilly spots.

Practical Travel Tips

• Always carry bottled water and avoid drinking tap water in Saputara to prevent stomach issues common among travelers unfamiliar with local water.

• Book bus and train tickets online early, especially during weekends and festival seasons, to avoid last-minute unavailability or higher prices.

• Use prepaid taxi counters or trusted app-based cabs at Thane and Saputara to avoid overcharging and ensure safety.

• Pack light but include rain gear during monsoon months (June to September), as sudden showers are frequent on the route and in Saputara.

• Keep your luggage secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended during stops at highway dhabas or rest areas.

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

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Thane to Saputara is during the cooler months from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and roads are safer for driving and walking around the hill station.

Avoid traveling during the peak monsoon season from June to September due to heavy rains, slippery roads, and occasional landslides on the route. Early mornings and late evenings can be foggy in winter.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Diwali and New Year when roads and accommodations are crowded and prices surge.

• Monsoon rains may cause delays on highways NH848 and NH53; check weather forecasts and road conditions before departure.

• Start your journey early in the day to avoid city traffic in Thane and to reach Saputara before dark, especially in the rainy season.

• Winter mornings can have fog on the highway near Saputara; drive carefully and use fog lights if available.

Arrival at Saputara & What to Expect

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

Local transport includes shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, and private taxis that can take you to hotels or tourist spots. Many accommodations are located near the lake and main market area, which are walkable from the bus stand.

Prepaid taxi counters are available at the bus stand, and app-based cabs may be limited, so plan your last-mile travel accordingly. Carry some cash as digital payments are not always accepted in smaller vehicles.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Saputara from Thane depends on your priorities. For comfort and flexibility, driving or hiring a taxi is best. Budget travelers can combine train and bus options with local transport. Planning ahead and booking tickets early will save time and money.

By following this guide’s step-by-step plan and practical tips, you can confidently organize your trip to Saputara. Enjoy the scenic journey and the peaceful hill station without worries, knowing you have prepared well for the road ahead.