Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a picturesque union territory located in western India, bordered by the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Known for its lush landscapes, tranquil lakes, and rich tribal culture, this region is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. It consists of two distinct geographical areas: Dadra, a small enclave, and Nagar Haveli, which lies between Maharashtra and Gujarat. Together, they offer a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and cultural richness.
Table of Contents
Key Points
Geography and Climate
Spanning an area of 491 square km, Dadra and Nagar Haveli is characterized by hilly terrain, dense forests, and numerous rivers, with the Daman Ganga River being the most significant. The region enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination with distinct seasons:
- Summers (March to June): Temperatures range from 25°C to 39°C (77°F to 102°F), making it quite warm.
- Monsoons (June to September): The area receives moderate to heavy rainfall, rejuvenating the landscape and making it lush and green.
- Winters (November to February): The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 30°C (57°F to 86°F), ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Historical Background
Dadra and Nagar Haveli have a rich historical background marked by Portuguese colonization. The territory was under Portuguese rule from the late 18th century until it was liberated in 1954. The liberation movement led to its integration into the Indian Union in 1961. This historical amalgamation of tribal traditions and Portuguese influence has resulted in a unique cultural tapestry that is evident in the architecture, traditions, and festivals of the region.
Cultural Heritage
The population of Dadra and Nagar Haveli primarily comprises various tribal communities, including the Warlis, Dhodias, and Koknas. These tribes have preserved their ancient customs, rituals, and traditions over centuries.
Warli Art: Warli paintings are famous worldwide for their simplistic yet profound depiction of daily life and nature. These paintings use a basic color palette of white on a brown background and feature intricate designs of human figures, animals, and nature.
Festivals: Festivals such as Diwali, Holi, and the local harvest festival ‘Koli Dance Festival’ are celebrated with great enthusiasm. The Koli Dance Festival is particularly significant, showcasing traditional tribal dances and music.
Music and Dance: Traditional tribal dances like the Tarpa dance and Dhol dance play a crucial role in the cultural celebrations. These dances are performed to the accompaniment of local instruments like the Tarpa, a wind instrument.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Trekking and Hiking: The hilly terrain and dense forests of Dadra and Nagar Haveli offer excellent opportunities for trekking and hiking. Popular trails include those around the Dudhni Lake area and the surrounding forests.
Bird Watching: The region’s diverse flora and fauna make it a haven for bird watchers. The wildlife sanctuary areas are particularly good spots for observing various bird species.
Water Sports: Dudhni Lake is the hub for water sports, offering activities like kayaking, canoeing, speed boating, and jet skiing. It attracts adventure enthusiasts from all over the region.
Major Attractions in Dadra and Nagar Haveli
Vanganga Garden
Recreational Activities: The garden is equipped with jogging tracks, walking paths, and children’s play areas, making it a popular spot for families and fitness enthusiasts.
Photography: With its lush greenery and serene environment, Vanganga Garden is a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers. It offers numerous picturesque spots for capturing beautiful moments.
Scenic Beauty: Vanganga Lake Garden is known for its picturesque landscapes, featuring manicured lawns, colorful flower beds, and scenic water bodies. The garden is adorned with bridges, fountains, and gazebos that add to its charm.
Boating: The central lake offers boating facilities, providing visitors with a tranquil experience amidst nature. Paddle boats and rowboats are available for rent.
Film Shoots: Due to its scenic beauty, the garden has been a popular location for shooting Bollywood films and songs, adding to its fame and attracting movie buffs.
Nakshatra Van
Astrological Significance: Nakshatra Van is a unique garden based on the concept of astrology. It features 27 sections, each dedicated to a specific nakshatra (lunar mansion) and planted with trees and plants associated with that nakshatra.
Herbal Plants: The garden is home to numerous herbal and medicinal plants, providing visitors with insights into traditional Ayurvedic practices and the medicinal properties of various plants.
Relaxation and Meditation: The serene environment of Nakshatra Van makes it an ideal place for relaxation and meditation, attracting those seeking peace and tranquility.
Educational Experience: The garden offers an educational experience about astrology, botany, and the cultural significance of various plants and trees.
Scenic Walks: Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along well-maintained pathways, surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of nature.
Vasona Lion Safari
Other Wildlife: In addition to lions, the safari park is home to various other wildlife species, including deer, peacocks, and a variety of birds, enhancing the overall wildlife experience.
Photography: The safari offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography, allowing visitors to capture close-up shots of lions and other animals in their natural surroundings.
Wildlife Experience: Vasona Lion Safari offers a thrilling opportunity to see Asiatic lions in their natural habitat. The safari park covers a vast area and is part of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli Wildlife Sanctuary.
Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided jeep safaris through the park, providing a safe and informative way to observe the lions and learn about their behavior and habitat.
Conservation Efforts: The park plays a significant role in the conservation of Asiatic lions and provides educational information about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.
Madhuban Dam
Scenic Reservoir: Madhuban Dam is built on the Daman Ganga River and creates a large reservoir that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Water Sports: The dam area provides facilities for various water sports, including boating, kayaking, and jet skiing, attracting adventure enthusiasts.
Fishing: The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, offering a peaceful and relaxing activity for visitors.
Bird Watching: The area around the dam is rich in birdlife, making it an excellent spot for bird watching. Visitors get a chance to see a variety of resident and migratory birds.
Nature Walks: The scenic beauty and tranquil environment of Madhuban Dam make it ideal for nature walks and hiking, providing an opportunity to explore the natural surroundings.
Satmaliya Deer Park
Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the different deer species, their habitats, and their behaviors.
Photography: The natural setting and wildlife make Satmaliya Deer Park a great location for photography, offering numerous opportunities to capture stunning shots of deer and birds.
Diverse Deer Species: Satmaliya Deer Park is home to several species of deer, including Chital (spotted deer), Sambar, and Nilgai (blue bull), providing visitors with a chance to observe these animals up close.
Scenic Environment: The park is set in a beautiful natural environment with lush greenery, making it a great place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bird Watching: In addition to deer, the park is home to various bird species, making it an excellent spot for bird watching.
Butterfly Park
Diverse Butterfly Species: The Butterfly Park is home to a wide variety of butterfly species, offering visitors a chance to observe these colorful insects in their natural habitat.
Educational Displays: The park features educational displays about the lifecycle of butterflies, their habitats, and their importance in the ecosystem.
Beautiful Landscaping: The park is beautifully landscaped with flowering plants, shrubs, and trees that attract butterflies, creating a vibrant and picturesque environment.
Photography: With its colorful butterflies and scenic surroundings, the park is a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Conservation Efforts: The park plays a role in the conservation of butterfly species and provides educational information about the importance of preserving these delicate creatures.
Dudhni Lake
Tribal Villages: The surrounding area is home to several tribal villages, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture and traditions.
Houseboats: Similar to the famous houseboats of Kashmir, Dudhni Lake offers houseboat stays, providing a unique and memorable experience.
Scenic Beauty: Dudhni Lake, often referred to as the ‘Kashmir of the West,’ offers breathtaking views and a serene environment, making it a popular spot for relaxation and nature lovers.
Water Sports: The lake provides facilities for various water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, speed boating, and jet skiing, attracting adventure enthusiasts.
Photography: The picturesque setting of the lake, with its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, makes it a perfect spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Om Temple
Spiritual Significance: Om Temple is a prominent spiritual site in Dadra and Nagar Haveli, attracting devotees and spiritual seekers from across the region.
Architectural Beauty: The temple is built in a “ૐ” shape with intricate carvings and designs in the temple, making it a remarkable landmark.
Religious Activities: The temple hosts various religious activities and festivals, offering visitors an opportunity to participate in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Community Hub: The temple serves as a community hub, bringing together people from different backgrounds and fostering a sense of unity and harmony.
How to Reach
By Air
Nearest Airport: The nearest airport to Dadra and Nagar Haveli is Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai, which is approximately 170 km away.
Domestic Connectivity: For domestic travelers, Surat Airport (Gujarat) is closer, around 130 km away. Surat Airport offers flights to major Indian cities.
Airport Transfers: From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use a pre-booked cab service to reach Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Several private car rental services are also available.
By Train
Nearest Railway Station: The nearest railway station is Vapi, which is aprox 17 km from Silvassa.
Major Trains: Vapi is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Delhi, and other parts of the country via regular trains. Key trains include Shatabdi Express, Rajdhani Express, and other express services.
Onward Travel: From Vapi railway station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use local buses to reach Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
By Road
Road Connectivity: Dadra and Nagar Haveli are well-connected by road to major cities in Gujarat and Maharashtra. The NH 848B highway passes through the region, making it accessible by car or bus.
- From Mumbai: The distance from Mumbai to Dadra and Nagar Haveli is about 180 km, and it takes approximately 3-4 hours by car. The route via NH48 is the most commonly used.
- From Surat: The distance from Surat is around 130 km, and the journey takes about 2-3 hours by car via NH48.
Bus Services: Various state transport buses and private buses operate regular services to and from Dadra and Nagar Haveli. You can find buses from Mumbai, Surat, Ahmedabad, and other nearby cities.
Local Transportation
Taxis and Auto-Rickshaws: For local travel within Dadra and Nagar Haveli, taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available. They are convenient for short distances and city tours.
Car Rentals: Car rental services are available for tourists who prefer to explore the region at their own pace. Several agencies offer self-drive as well as chauffeur-driven options.
Buses: Local bus services operated by the government and private operators are available for traveling between different towns and tourist attractions within Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
Accommodations
Luxury Resorts
- Treat Resort: Located in Silvassa, Treat Resort is one of the most popular luxury accommodations in the region.
- Ras Resort: Located in Silvassa, Ras Resort is known for its serene ambiance and comfortable accommodations.
- Khanvel Resort: Located in Khanvel, near Silvassa, Khanvel Resort offers a blend of luxury and nature, with comfortable rooms, cottages, and suites.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Hotel Krishna: Located in Silvassa, Hotel Krishna offers comfortable accommodations at affordable prices.
- Hotel Woodlands Inn: Located in Silvassa, Hotel Woodlands Inn provides well-furnished rooms and essential amenities. The hotel has a restaurant serving local and multi-cuisine dishes.
- Daman Ganga Valley Resort: Located in Silvassa, Daman Ganga Valley Resort offers a comfortable stay with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
Budget Options
- Hotel Soubhagya Inn: Located in Silvassa, Hotel Soubhagya Inn offers budget-friendly accommodations with basic amenities.
- Hotel Hill View: Located in Silvassa, Hotel Hill View provides budget accommodations with essential facilities.
- Hotel Greenland: Located in Silvassa, Hotel Greenland offers simple and economical accommodations.
Local Cuisine
Ubadiyu: Ubadiyu is a traditional tribal dish similar to the Gujarati dish “Undhiyu.” It is a mix of vegetables like brinjal, potato, yam, and beans, cooked with herbs and spices in an earthen pot.
Karanda Bhaji: Karanda Bhaji is a simple yet delicious dish made from Karanda (Carissa carandas), a type of berry. The berries are cooked with spices to make them tangy and spicy.
Khaman: Khaman is a popular Gujarati snack that has found its way into the local cuisine of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It is a steamed savory cake made from fermented chickpea batter.
Bamboo Shoot Curry: Bamboo Shoot Curry is a traditional tribal dish made from tender bamboo shoots cooked in a spicy and tangy gravy.
Patal Bhaji: Patal Bhaji is a curry made from colocasia leaves cooked in a spicy and tangy gram flour gravy.
Sev Usal: Sev Usal is a spicy curry made from dried peas, garnished with sev (crispy chickpea flour noodles) and served with bread or pav.
Bhajiya: Bhajiya are fritters made from vegetables like potato, onion, and chili, coated in a spiced gram flour batter and deep-fried.
Doodhpak: Doodhpak is a traditional sweet dish made from milk, rice, and sugar, flavored with saffron, cardamom, and dry fruits.
Local Beverages:
- Neera: A sweet, non-alcoholic drink made from the sap of palm trees. It’s a popular traditional beverage.
- Toddy: A fermented version of Neera, mildly alcoholic and popular among the local tribes.
- Herbal Tea: Made from locally sourced herbs and spices, providing a refreshing and healthful drink.
Travel Tips and Safety advice
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dadra and Nagar Haveli is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Respect Local Culture: While exploring tribal villages and local communities, be respectful of their customs and traditions.
Photography: Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for photography, offering soft lighting and vibrant colors. When photographing local people or inside temples, always ask for permission to respect their privacy and customs.
Language: Hindi and Gujarati are widely spoken.
Cash and Cards: Carry enough cash as not all places accept cards. ATMs are available in major towns like Silvassa.
Stay Hydrated: The climate can be warm, especially in the summer. Carry water bottles and stay hydrated.
Local Guide: Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience and ensure you don’t miss out on key attractions.
Wildlife Safety: When visiting wildlife areas like Vasona Lion Safari, follow all safety instructions and guidelines provided by the authorities.
Health Precautions: Carry basic medication and a first-aid kit. Be cautious of food and water hygiene to avoid stomach ailments.
Conclusion
Dadra and Nagar Haveli, with its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance, promises an enriching travel experience. From exploring lush gardens and serene lakes to experiencing the vibrant tribal culture, this union territory offers something for every traveler. Whether you are seeking adventure, tranquility, or a cultural deep dive, Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is Dadra and Nagar Haveli located?
Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a union territory located in western India, bordering the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. The capital city is Silvassa.
What is the best time to travel to Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What are the main languages spoken in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
The main languages spoken are Gujarati, Hindi, and Marathi. English is also spoken to a small extent, especially in tourist areas.
How do I reach Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
The nearest airport from there is in Mumbai, which is aprox 170 km away. The nearest railway station is Vapi, around 17 km from Silvassa. The region is well-connected by road to major cities in Gujarat and Maharashtra.
What types of accommodation are available in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
There are various accommodation options, including luxury resorts (like Treat Resort and Ras Resort), mid-range hotels (like Hotel Krishna), and budget hotels (like Hotel Soubhagya Inn).
Is it safe to travel to Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
Yes, it is generally safe to travel. However, it is advisable to follow standard travel safety precautions, such as staying hydrated, having travel insurance, and being aware of local customs.
What are the major attractions in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
Major attractions include Vanganga Garden, Nakshatra Van, Vasona Lion Safari, Madhuban Dam, Satmaliya Deer Park, Butterfly Park, Nature Awareness Centre, Dudhni Lake, and Om Temple.
Are there any wildlife sanctuaries in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
Yes, the Vasona Lion Safari and Satmaliya Deer Park are notable wildlife attractions where you can see lions, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
What activities can tourists engage in at Dudhni Lake?
Tourists can enjoy boating, picnicking, and photography at Dudhni Lake. The lake offers scenic views and is a great spot for relaxation.
What are some must-try local dishes in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
Must-try local dishes include Ubadiyu, Karanda Bhaji, Khaman, Bamboo Shoot Curry, Patal Bhaji, Khichdi, Sev Usal, Bhajiya, and Doodhpak.
Are there any unique beverages in Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
Yes, unique local beverages include Neera (a sweet non-alcoholic drink from palm sap) and Toddy (a fermented version of Neera with mild alcohol content).
What are some cultural aspects of Dadra and Nagar Haveli?
Dadra and Nagar Haveli has a rich tribal culture with traditional festivals, dances, and crafts. The Warli art form is a significant part of the local culture.
Are there any festivals or events that tourists should look out for?
Tourists should look out for local festivals like Diwali, Holi, and tribal festivals, which offer a glimpse into the vibrant cultural heritage of the region.
