Silvassa
Place Details: Silvassa, the capital of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, is a lush green paradise nestled in the foothills of the Western Ghats. Once a Portuguese colony until 1954, it has now evolved into a vibrant hub that balances industrial growth with pristine natural beauty. The town is famous for its "garden city" vibe, featuring numerous manicured parks like Vanganga Lake Garden, which is so picturesque it has been a frequent backdrop for Bollywood films. For those interested in indigenous culture, the Tribal Cultural Museum is a must-visit, showcasing a rich collection of masks, musical instruments, and Warli paintings that tell the story of the local tribes. Nature lovers are drawn to the Vasona Lion Safari, where you can see Asiatic lions in a semi-natural habitat, and the Satmalia Deer Park, home to sambar, chital, and blackbucks. The Daman Ganga River flows through the region, providing scenic spots like the Dudhni Lake, located about 40 KMS away, where tourists can enjoy Shikara rides and water sports. Spiritually, the town is anchored by the stunning BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Temple, a masterpiece of marble carving, and the Church of Our Lady of Piety, which reflects the town's colonial past. Silvassa serves as a perfect base for exploring the surrounding wilderness and tribal villages, offering a peaceful retreat from the nearby urban centers of Mumbai and Surat. Whether you are trekking through the woods or enjoying a quiet evening by the riverfront, Silvassa provides an enchanting experience of nature and heritage.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
Nature & Tribal HeritageEntry Fees:
Safari Charges: The Vasona Lion Safari charges a moderate fee of around 50 to 100 rupees per person, which includes the cost of the bus ride.
Garden Fees: Most public gardens like Vanganga and Nakshatra have a very low entry fee, usually bet...Safari Charges: The Vasona Lion Safari charges a moderate fee of around 50 to 100 rupees per person, which includes the cost of the bus ride.
Garden Fees: Most public gardens like Vanganga and Nakshatra have a very low entry fee, usually between 10 and 20 rupees for maintenance.Timing:
Regular Timings: Gardens are typically open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The Lion Safari operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Mondays.
Ideal Visit Time: Early mornings are best for the wildlife parks to spot animals, while evenings are i...Regular Timings: Gardens are typically open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The Lion Safari operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except on Mondays.
Ideal Visit Time: Early mornings are best for the wildlife parks to spot animals, while evenings are ideal for the gardens and the riverfront area.Special Events:
Tarpa Festival: A grand tribal celebration in December featuring the famous Tarpa dance, where men and women dance in circles to the sound of a wind instrument.
World Tourism Day: Often celebrated with local food fairs and cultural exhibitio...Tarpa Festival: A grand tribal celebration in December featuring the famous Tarpa dance, where men and women dance in circles to the sound of a wind instrument.
World Tourism Day: Often celebrated with local food fairs and cultural exhibitions showcasing the tribal heritage of the entire Dadra and Nagar Haveli region.Best Photo Spots:
Swaminarayan Temple: The white marble glowing against a clear blue sky or under the night lights offers a majestic and divine photographic subject.
Dudhni Waterfront: The vast expanse of water surrounded by green hills provides a landscape v...Swaminarayan Temple: The white marble glowing against a clear blue sky or under the night lights offers a majestic and divine photographic subject.
Dudhni Waterfront: The vast expanse of water surrounded by green hills provides a landscape view that is perfect for wide-angle nature photography.
Lion Safari: Getting a close-up shot of an Asiatic lion from the safety of the safari vehicle is a highlight for any wildlife photographer visiting the area.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Wildlife Watching: Start your day with a visit to the Vasona Lion Safari. Board the protected bus and witness the lions roaming freely in the large enclosure.
Museum Visit: Spend your midday at the Tribal Cultural Museum. Learn about the history of the Dhodia and Kokna tribes through their unique artifacts and traditional costumes.
Spiritual Peace: Visit the BAPS Swaminarayan Temple in the afternoon. Admire the silence and the incredible stone craftsmanship that covers every inch of the structure.
Nature Walk: Head to the Vanganga Lake Garden for a late afternoon stroll. The wooden bridges and paddleboats on the lake provide a classic, romantic setting.
Water Sports: Take a trip to Dudhni Lake. Engage in kayaking or a relaxi...
Information
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Why Famous:
Warli Art: Silvassa is a major center for the world-renowned Warli tribal art, which uses geometric shapes to depict daily life and folklore.
Lion Safari: It is one of the few places outside of Gir where you can go on a safari to spot the ma...Warli Art: Silvassa is a major center for the world-renowned Warli tribal art, which uses geometric shapes to depict daily life and folklore.
Lion Safari: It is one of the few places outside of Gir where you can go on a safari to spot the majestic Asiatic lions at Vasona.
Lush Gardens: The town is famous for its high density of beautiful gardens and parks, making it a top eco-tourism destination in Western India. -
Architecture:
Marble Excellence: The Swaminarayan Temple is built entirely of light pink marble with no structural steel, featuring domes and pillars with intricate carvings of deities.
Colonial Gothic: The Church of Our Lady of Piety features 18th-centur...Marble Excellence: The Swaminarayan Temple is built entirely of light pink marble with no structural steel, featuring domes and pillars with intricate carvings of deities.
Colonial Gothic: The Church of Our Lady of Piety features 18th-century Gothic architecture with pointed arches and a gray stone facade that stands as a remnant of Portuguese rule.
Dimensions: The Vanganga Lake Garden covers 7. 5 hectares, designed with Japanese-style bridges and thatched huts that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Mumbai (160 KM) or Surat (130 KM). Travelers can take a cab or bus from there to reach Silvassa comfortably.
By Train: Vapi is the nearest railway station, just 17 KMS away. It is a major stop on the Western ... -
Near Tourist Places:
Vapi (17 KM), Daman (30 KM), Dudhni (40 KM), Khanvel (20 KM), Madhuban Dam (15 KM), Satmalia (12 KM), Luhari (14 KM), Sanjan (45 KM), Udvada (35 KM), Parnera Hill (45 KM)
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Keep a safe distance from animals during the safari and follow all guide instructions. Carry insect repellent for evening garden visits.
Packing: Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothes. If visiting in winter, c...
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