Surat to Saputara: 160 km Road Guide NH-360 · 4h 00m Drive — Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Surat to Saputara? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 160km journey. Explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Surat to Saputara
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 4h 00m | ₹1,528 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹162 – ₹475 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹228 – ₹1,766 |
How to Reach Saputara from Surat: Car, Train, Bus Options
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
Drive Surat to Saputara (160 km, 4h 00m)
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
Train from Surat to Saputara
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
Bus from Surat to Saputara
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 160km journey, driving is your best option. The 4h 00m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
What to Eat in Surat Before You Hit the Road
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Must-Try Food in Surat Before Your Drive
- local_dining Locho - a steamed snack made from gram flour (try at Jalaram Locho)
- local_dining Undhiyu - a mixed vegetable casserole cooked underground (available during winter)
- local_dining Ghari - a sweet made from milk solids and nuts (try at local sweet shops)
Sasumaa Gujarati Thali • Athwalines
Direct Route
This is a direct route with limited major stops between Surat and Saputara. Perfect for a focused journey!
Top Attractions in Saputara: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Saputara, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Saputara Lake
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹10 • 🕐 09:00-21:00 dailySaputara Lake is a serene artificial lake in the heart of the hill station. It's surrounded by lush greenery and offers boating facilities.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to enjoy the sunset
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during the evening for a beautiful sunset view over the lake.
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Sunset Point
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 06:00-18:00 dailySunset Point offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and hills. It's a popular spot to watch the sunset.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for the sunset
💡 Insider Tip: Bring a light jacket as it can get chilly in the evening.
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Gira Falls
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 ₹30 (Indians), ₹550 (foreigners) • 🕐 08:00-17:00 dailyGira Falls is a beautiful waterfall cascading down from a height. It's a popular picnic spot.
Best Time to Visit: During or immediately after the monsoon
💡 Insider Tip: Carry your own food and water as there are limited options available nearby.
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Step Garden
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-18:00 dailyStep Garden is a unique garden arranged in a stepped pattern. It features various plants, flowers, and wooden artifacts.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during the flowering season for the best experience.
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Rose Garden
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 ₹10 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-18:00 dailyRose Garden showcases a variety of rose species. It's a fragrant and colorful attraction.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during the blooming season for the best display of roses.
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Echo Point
⏱ 30 minutes • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open all dayEcho Point is a spot where you can hear your echo. It's a fun and simple attraction.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Where to Eat in Saputara: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Saputara
Don't leave Saputara without tasting these local specialties:
- Rotla - Traditional flatbread made from millet or sorghum, often served with vegetables.
- Undhiyu - A mixed vegetable casserole cooked underground, especially popular during winter.
- Thepla - A spiced flatbread made from wheat flour, often served with yogurt or chutney.
- Bhajiya - Deep-fried vegetable fritters, a popular snack during the monsoon season.
- Sev Tameta - A sweet and spicy tomato-based dish topped with sev (crispy noodles).
Recommended Restaurants in Saputara
Hotel Shilpi Hill Resort
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two)
Specialty: Gujarati Thali
Offers a pleasant ambiance and good quality food. Known for its Gujarati Thali and North Indian dishes. It is located centrally.
📍 Main Market Area
Lake View Restaurant
Indian, Chinese • ₹₹ (₹400-700 for two)
Specialty: Butter Chicken
Offers a beautiful view of Saputara Lake. The food is decent and the service is friendly.
📍 Near Saputara Lake
Pure Veg Restaurant
Vegetarian • ₹ (₹300-500 for two)
Specialty: Dal Fry
A simple and affordable restaurant serving pure vegetarian dishes. Good for a quick and budget-friendly meal.
📍 Near Bus Stand
Green Hotel
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹ (₹500-800 for two)
Specialty: Paneer Tikka
A popular restaurant with a wide range of dishes. Known for its outdoor seating and live music.
📍 Near Step Garden
Where to Stay in Saputara: Hotels for Every Budget
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Lake View
Price: ₹800-1500/night
Location: Near Saputara Lake
Simple and clean rooms with a decent view of the lake. Good for budget travelers.
Patang Residency
Price: ₹900-1600/night
Location: Main Market Area
Basic but comfortable rooms in a central location. Offers easy access to shops and restaurants.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Anando
Price: ₹2000-3500/night
Location: Near Sunset Point
Well-maintained hotel with comfortable rooms and good amenities. Offers scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Savshanti Lake Resort
Price: ₹2500-4000/night
Location: Close to Saputara Lake
Offers well-appointed rooms with modern facilities. Features a restaurant and recreational activities.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Aakar Lords Inn Saputara
Price: ₹4000+/night
Location: Near Governor Hill
Luxury hotel with spacious rooms and excellent service. Features a swimming pool, spa, and multiple dining options.
The Fern Serena Resort Saputara
Price: ₹5000+/night
Location: On the outskirts of Saputara
Offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views. Features a range of amenities and activities.
Best Time to Visit Saputara: Season & Weather Travel Guide
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Saputara:
Best Time: September to March
Temperature: 10-25 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and cool, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The skies are clear, and the landscapes are lush after the monsoon.
Why Visit: The weather is perfect for trekking, boating, and exploring the viewpoints. The post-monsoon greenery is at its peak, and the waterfalls are still flowing. This is also the time for local festivals, showcasing tribal culture.
Important Note: This is peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Book accommodations and transportation in advance.
Shoulder Season: July to August
Temperature: 20-30 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season with heavy rainfall. The region turns incredibly green, and waterfalls are at their fullest.
Why Visit: The landscape is stunningly beautiful, with overflowing waterfalls and mist-covered hills. It's a great time for nature lovers seeking solitude. The hotel rates are lower.
Important Note: Heavy rain can disrupt travel and outdoor activities. Some attractions might be temporarily closed. Roads can be slippery and visibility low.
Avoid: April to June
Temperature: 30-40 degrees C
Weather: Hot and humid weather makes outdoor activities uncomfortable. The landscape is dry and the waterfalls have little to no water.
Why Visit: There are few reasons to visit during this period as the heat is oppressive and the natural beauty is diminished.
Important Note: Some smaller establishments might be closed due to the off-season. Prices might be slightly lower, but the experience is not worth it.
Saputara Travel Tips: Money, Safety & Local Advice
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: Limited availability, it is better to withdraw cash in advance.
Payment Methods: Cash is preferred for smaller establishments and street vendors. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Expected at local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water and ice.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic. Be cautious of spicy food.
Common Health Issues: Altitude sickness, dehydration, and upset stomach. Carry necessary medications and stay hydrated.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. Cost: ₹200-300. Requires ID proof and passport photos.
WiFi Availability: Available at most hotels and some restaurants.
👕 What to Wear
Wear comfortable and light clothing. Carry a light jacket as the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Surat to Saputara FAQ: Distance, Cost, Time & Best Routes (2026)
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