This quiet magical land of 70 villages, sandwiched between the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, near Daman is blessed by nature with Lush green forests, meandering rivers, large waterfronts, cascading waterfalls, the gentle gurgle of streams, the distant hills, a gorgeous kaleidoscope of flora and fauna....yes, it is the serene and sylvan land of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Nature at her best.
As a land it is not very large only 491sq kms, covered with forests & woods.The heaven for the simple , colourful tribal folks.Silva in portugesse means "woods" and this can be seen when you visit silvassa the tiny sleepy township.
Only 5km from the capital town of Silvassa is one of the most beautiful lake gardens where songs of many Bollywood feature films have been picturised.Gujarati and Hindi are the main languages spoken by the 'adivasi' population.
The hospitable, kind, unselfish native tribals have their own customs, dances, and rituals which are quite fascinating. Be it the Tarpa dance, the Mask dance or the Bhavada, it is sheer magic!! Their vibrant lifestyle are simply bewitching.
The territory enjoys a very pleasant climate from November to March, which is actually the best time for a visit. The summer temperature does not go very high, due to its proximity to the sea, and the nights are really pleasant.
How to get there
Air:
Mumbai (Bombay) is the nearest airport.
Rail:
The nearest railway station is Vapi via Western Railways, which is about 18 kms from Silvassa.
Road:
Dadra and Nagar Haveli , almost touches the Mumbai (Bombay) - Baroda - Delhi National Highway No.8 (Western Express Highway). Silvassa is about 14 kms, from Bhilad and Vapi.
What to See
Vanganga Lake and Island Garden, Dadra
A gorgeous lake garden with quaint wooden bridges, thatched huts, paddle boats, jogging paths - its everything the romantic in you craves for !!
Vandhara Udyan, Silvassa
A riverside park with sprawling lawns dotted with exquisite pavilions, an ideal site for picnic-buffs.
Piparia Udyan, Silvassa
The Piparia Udyan is really a park with a difference. The roaring waterfalls, tiny kiosks and sprawling islands of flowers are a feast to the eyes.
Mini Zoo and Bal Udyan, Silvassa
Colourful birds, mischievous monkeys, awesome pythons and sleepy crocodiles coupled with swings, slides and merry-go-rounds render this site every kid's dream come true.
Tribal Cultural Museum, Silvassa
The tribal museum will give you a feel of the place - the masks, the musical apparatus, the fishing gadgets and life-size statues.
Vanvihar Tourist Complex, Chauda, Khanvel
A 20 kms drive from Silvassa, Khanvel is simply beautiful. Rolling meadows, terraced gardens, rustic cottages and the river Sakartod flowing through, it is your chance to have a close encounter with Nature.
Tourist Complex, Dudhani
Another 20 kms drive from Khanvel is Dudhani, where the large waterfront of river Damanganga provides a splendid view of the Madhuban Dam. You can pitch your tents near the bank and get a dose of real camp life. The speed boats, kayaks, canoes, water scooters, trekking are guaranteed to make you fall in love with the great outdoors.
