SILVASSA
Hey there, wanderlusts! Are you ready to embark on a journey to the land of peace and serenity? Yes, we are talking about Silvassa, the capital city of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. If you're thinking of taking a break from your mundane life and want to venture out on an adventure, then Silvassa is the perfect destination for you.
Silvassa is known for its picturesque beauty, lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes. It's a place where nature's beauty will leave you spellbound. The city is located on the banks of River Damanganga and is enveloped by hills and forests.
But wait! This isn't all Silvassa has to offer.
It's also home to some amazing resorts that provide a perfect blend of luxury and nature. You can enjoy adventurous activities like trekking, hiking, and rappelling or just sit back and relax in the lap of nature.
The best part about visiting Silvassa is that it's just a few hours away from Mumbai and Gujarat. So why not take a break from your busy city life and explore this hidden gem? Trust us; it'll be worth it!
So pack your bags, put on your travel shoes, grab your cameras (don't forget the selfie stick), and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Silvassa
- How to Reach and getting around Silvassa
- Weather of Silvassa
- Places to Visit in Silvassa
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Silvassa
- Best areas for Accommodation in Silvassa
- Shopping in Silvassa
- Nightlife in Silvassa
- Festivals and Events in Silvassa
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Silvassa
- FAQs
History and Culture of Silvassa
Silvassa is a city in the Indian union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. It has a rich history and cultural background that makes it stand out from other cities in India. Silvassa was ruled by the Portuguese in the past, which is why you can spot a lot of Portuguese influence in the architecture and culture of the city.
The city is surrounded by lush green forests that are home to many wild animals. The tribal communities living in these forests have their own unique culture and traditions that add to Silvassa's diverse heritage.
Silvassa is also known for its delicious cuisine, which includes local delicacies like pork vindaloo and fish curry. These dishes are made using traditional recipes passed down through generations.
The city has several tourist attractions, including the Vanganga Lake Garden, which is a popular spot for picnics and boat rides. Another famous attraction is the Tribal Museum, which showcases the art, culture, and lifestyle of the tribal communities living in Silvassa.
The people of Silvassa are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. They celebrate several festivals throughout the year, such as Diwali, Holi, and Christmas with great enthusiasm and joy.
In conclusion, Silvassa is a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and food that makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking to experience something new and exciting. So pack your bags, head to Silvassa, and get ready to be amazed!
How to Reach and getting around Silvassa
Silvassa, the capital of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, is a serene and picturesque town nestled in the Western Ghats. The town is blessed with lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning lakes. To reach Silvassa, there are several options available that cater to different budgets and preferences.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Silvassa is Mumbai Airport, which is 170 km away. From Mumbai airport, one can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Silvassa. Another option is Surat Airport, which is 125 km away from Silvassa.
By Rail:
Vapi Railway Station is the nearest railhead to Silvassa, located at a distance of 18 km. It is well-connected with major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Pune. From Vapi station, one can take a taxi or local bus to reach Silvassa.
By Road:
Silvassa is well-connected by road with major cities like Mumbai (170 km), Ahmedabad (375 km), Surat (125 km), Pune (290 km), and Nashik (150 km). The roads are well-maintained, making it a comfortable journey by car or bus.
By Bus:
There are several state-run buses that ply between Silvassa and nearby towns and cities. Private buses are also available from Mumbai and other major cities. One can choose from AC or non-AC buses depending on their budget.
By Car:
One can hire a car from Mumbai or any other nearby city to reach Silvassa. Self-drive cars are also available for those who prefer driving themselves.
In conclusion, reaching Silvassa is not difficult as there are several options available for travelers. Whether you prefer air travel or wish to drive down yourself, there's an option for everyone.
Weather of Silvassa
Extreme Winters
Mild WintersHot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantSilvassa, a serene town located in the western part of India, experiences a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The temperature during summers can reach up to 40°C, making it uncomfortable for tourists to explore the town during this time. Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and lush greenery to the region, making it a perfect time for nature lovers to visit Silvassa. The best time to visit Silvassa is from October to March, when the weather remains pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
During winters, the temperature drops down to a comfortable range of 10°C-15°C, making it an ideal time for tourists to explore the town's scenic beauty. The cool breeze during this season makes it perfect for indulging in adventure sports such as trekking and hiking. Spring season in Silvassa begins from February and lasts till April, with mild temperature and clear skies, making it another good time for tourists to visit.
In contrast, summers in Silvassa can be quite harsh due to high humidity levels and scorching heat. It is recommended that tourists avoid visiting Silvassa during this season unless they are prepared for the heat. Overall, the best time to visit Silvassa is between October and March, when the weather remains pleasant throughout the day, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Places to Visit in Silvassa
Hirwa Van Gardens: Hirwa Van Gardens is a beautiful park situated in Silvassa, spread over an area of 7.5 hectares. The park is a perfect picnic spot with lush green lawns, scenic landscapes, and a variety of flora and fauna.
Vanganga Lake: Vanganga Lake is an artificial lake located in the Damanganga River that flows through the town of Silvassa. The lake offers boating facilities, garden areas, and beautiful scenic views.
Lion Safari Wildlife Park: Lion Safari Wildlife Park is home to various animals like lions, tigers, leopards, deer, and many other wild animals. The park also offers guided tours for visitors.
Dudhni Lake: Dudhni Lake is a serene and tranquil water body located in the Satmaliya Deer Park. Visitors can enjoy boating activities amidst the scenic surroundings of this natural beauty.
Tribal Cultural Museum: The Tribal Cultural Museum showcases the rich history and culture of the tribes residing in the region. The museum features artifacts depicting their lifestyle, customs, traditions, and handicrafts.
Madhuban Dam: Madhuban Dam is a popular picnic spot located near Silvassa that offers breathtaking scenic views along with various recreational activities like boating and fishing.
Swaminarayan Temple: Swaminarayan Temple is a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan which showcases breathtaking architecture along with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Bal Udyan: Bal Udyan is a children’s park situated in Silvassa that features various rides like toy train rides, slides, swings for children to enjoy their time while visiting Silvassa.
Island Garden: Island Garden is a picturesque garden located at Dadra Island which offers stunning views of nature alongside musical fountains that keep visitors entertained throughout their visit.
Satmaliya Deer Park: Satmaliya Deer Park houses several species of deer along with other wild animals like monkeys and peacocks roaming freely within its premises while offering visitors a chance to come close to nature while enjoying their visit to Silvassa
Beaches
Hilly Regions
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Silvassa
Best areas for accommodation in Silvassa
Silvassa, the capital city of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, is a popular tourist destination known for its lush greenery and serene atmosphere. It's an ideal place to unwind and relax amidst nature. When planning a trip to Silvassa, finding the perfect accommodation is crucial. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Silvassa:
Khanvel: This area is known for its luxurious resorts and hotels that offer world-class amenities like swimming pools, spas, and fine dining restaurants. It's a great option if you're looking for a lavish stay in Silvassa.
Naroli Road: If you're on a budget but still want to stay in a decent place, Naroli Road is the area for you. It has several budget hotels and guesthouses that offer clean rooms with basic amenities.
Silvassa Vasona Lion Safari: For those who want to experience something unique, staying near the Silvassa Vasona Lion Safari can be an exciting option. There are several tents and cottages available here that offer a close-to-nature experience.
Here are three properties for accommodation in Silvassa:
Treat Resort: A luxury resort located in Khanvel offering spacious rooms, swimming pool, spa, restaurant and many more facilities.
Le Royale: A budget hotel located on Naroli Road offering comfortable rooms with basic amenities like TV and air conditioning.
Camp Roxx Adventure Camp: A hostel located near the Silvassa Vasona Lion Safari offering tents with shared bathrooms and outdoor activities like rock climbing and trekking.
Shopping in Silvassa
Silvassa, the capital city of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, is known for its serene beauty and lush green surroundings. The city is also famous for its shopping destinations that offer a wide range of products at reasonable prices. Here are some of the things you can buy, markets to visit, and things to avoid while shopping in Silvassa.
Things to buy
- Warli Artifacts: Silvassa is home to the Warli tribe, one of the oldest tribes in India, known for their unique art style depicting daily life. You can buy various Warli artifacts like paintings, wall hangings, and masks.
- Leather Products: Silvassa's leather industry is well-known for its quality products like bags, wallets, belts, and shoes.
- Handicrafts: The city has many handicraft stores that sell beautiful handicrafts made by local artisans. You can buy items like bamboo craftwork, pottery items, and wooden artifacts.
- Chocolates: Silvassa has several chocolate factories that produce high-quality chocolates. You can buy chocolates of different flavors and varieties.
Markets to visit
- Khanvel Road Market: This market is famous for its leather products like shoes, bags, belts at affordable prices.
- Silvassa Bazaar: This market is popular among tourists as it sells various items like clothes, accessories, handicrafts at reasonable prices.
- Tribal Market: This market sells unique tribal handicrafts like bamboo craftswork, pottery items made by local artisans.
What to avoid
- Avoid buying animals or their products as it may violate animal protection laws.
- Avoid buying fake or counterfeit goods sold on the streets as it's illegal.
- Don't purchase alcohol or tobacco from unauthorized shops as it's illegal.
- Avoid purchasing drugs from any shop or person as it's a serious offense under Indian law.
In conclusion, shopping in Silvassa can be an enjoyable experience with plenty of options to choose from. However, be careful while purchasing anything from unknown shops or vendors. Stick to reputable stores to ensure quality products and fair pricing.
Nightlife in Silvassa
Silvassa, the capital city of the Indian Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, has much to offer for those seeking a vibrant nightlife. The city is well-known for its bustling streets, vibrant culture, and exciting nightlife. Silvassa has a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants that offer an enjoyable experience for all ages.
The 3 best places to spend the night in Silvassa are:
Madhuban Resort & Spa: This luxurious resort is the perfect place to unwind after a long day exploring Silvassa. The resort has several bars and restaurants that offer a wide range of drinks and cuisines. The resort also has an outdoor pool, spa, and fitness center.
Khanvel Resort: This resort is an excellent choice for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its serene surroundings and luxurious amenities, the Khanvel Resort provides an ideal setting for relaxation. The resort also has several bars and restaurants that serve delicious food and drinks.
Lords Resort: This resort offers an unforgettable experience with its well-designed rooms, excellent service, and various recreational facilities such as a swimming pool, spa, fitness center, game room, etc. The resort also has a bar where guests can enjoy refreshing cocktails or mocktails.
In conclusion, Silvassa is a vibrant city with many options for nightlife enthusiasts. From luxurious resorts to trendy bars and clubs, there is something for everyone in this bustling city that never sleeps!
Outdoor Activities in Silvassa
Silvassa, the capital of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and exciting outdoor activities. The city offers an abundance of opportunities to indulge in various adventure sports and outdoor activities that are sure to give you an adrenaline rush. If you are looking for some fun and adventure, Silvassa is the perfect place to be.
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Silvassa is ziplining. It is an exciting adventure sport that involves sliding down a cable from a height while being harnessed to it. Another thrilling activity that you can enjoy in Silvassa is rock climbing. It involves climbing up or down a steep natural rock formation using specialized equipment.
If you are looking for something more relaxing, then you can opt for a nature walk. Silvassa has several scenic trails that are perfect for hiking and exploring the forested areas around the city. You can also go on a wildlife safari at the Vasona Lion Safari Park, which is home to several species of wild animals like lions, tigers, deer, and monkeys.
In conclusion, Silvassa offers a variety of outdoor activities that cater to different interests and skill levels. Whether you are seeking an adrenaline rush or simply want to enjoy nature's beauty, Silvassa has something for everyone. So pack your bags and head out for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful city!
Festivals and Events in Silvassa
Festivals and events are an essential part of the cultural fabric of Silvassa. These festivals provide an opportunity for people to come together, celebrate, and enjoy various cultural activities. The city hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year, catering to different age groups and interests. Here are some of the most significant events in Silvassa:
Silvassa Monsoon Festival (August): This festival celebrates the arrival of monsoons in Silvassa. It involves various cultural activities, such as dance performances, music concerts, and food festivals.
Diwali (October/November): Diwali is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. In Silvassa, people light up their homes with candles and lamps, burst crackers and exchange sweets with each other.
Christmas (December): The Christian community in Silvassa celebrates Christmas with great zeal and enthusiasm. Churches are decorated beautifully, carols are sung throughout the city, and delicious cakes are distributed among people.
Silvassa Festival (February/March): This is a five-day festival that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. The festival includes traditional dance performances from different states of India, food stalls serving local delicacies, and various competitions.
Holi (March): Holi is a Hindu festival that marks the arrival of spring. In Silvassa, people celebrate this festival by throwing colored powders at each other and enjoying traditional sweets like Gujiya.
Apart from these festivals, there are several other events that take place throughout the year in Silvassa, such as:
Van Mahotsav (July): A tree plantation drive organized by the Forest Department to promote afforestation.
Ganga Dussehra (May/June): A Hindu festival that celebrates the descent of River Ganga on Earth.
Overall, these events add flavor to life in Silvassa and help bring communities together. They also attract tourists from all over India who come to experience these colorful celebrations firsthand.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Silvassa
- Plan your trip around the festivals and events - Silvassa hosts various cultural and religious festivals throughout the year, including Diwali, Holi, and Eid. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly to experience these vibrant celebrations.
- Explore the natural beauty of Silvassa - Silvassa is known for its lush greenery and scenic landscapes. Take a break from city life and explore the stunning gardens, parks, and waterfalls in the area.
- Try the local cuisine - Silvassa offers a variety of delicious food options, including traditional Gujarati cuisine. Don't miss out on trying popular dishes like dhokla, fafda, and khaman when visiting local restaurants.
- Shop for unique souvenirs - Silvassa is home to various handicrafts, including Warli paintings and bamboo products. Be sure to visit local markets like Dadra Bazaar to find unique souvenirs to take back home.
- Stay in eco-friendly accommodations - To support sustainable tourism in Silvassa, consider staying in eco-friendly accommodations that offer eco-tourism activities such as nature walks or birdwatching. This will not only reduce your carbon footprint but also allow you to connect with nature on a deeper level.
FAQs
###What is Silvassa known for?
Silvassa is the capital city of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, an Indian union territory. It is known for its picturesque beauty, greenery, and tourist attractions. The city is surrounded by lush green forests and hills that make it a perfect getaway destination for nature lovers.
###How can I reach Silvassa?
Silvassa is well-connected to major cities in India by air, road, and rail. The nearest airport to Silvassa is Mumbai International Airport, which is about 170 km away. You can also reach Silvassa by train or road from nearby cities like Mumbai or Surat.
###What are the popular tourist attractions in Silvassa?
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Silvassa are Vanganga Lake Garden, Tribal Museum, Lion Safari Wildlife Park, Dudhni Lake, Hirwa Van Garden, and Madhuban Dam.
###What is the best time to visit Silvassa?
The best time to visit Silvassa is between October and March when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities like sightseeing, trekking, hiking and camping.
###What are the accommodation options available in Silvassa?
There are several accommodation options available in Silvassa ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. Some of the popular resorts in Silvassa are Treat Resort, Daman Ganga Valley Resort, Khanvel Resort and Pluz Resort.
###What are the local delicacies of Silvassa?
The local cuisine of Silvassa reflects a mix of Gujarati and Maharashtrian cuisine with a touch of Portuguese influence. Some of the popular dishes you must try when in Silvassa are Chicken Cafreal (Portuguese style chicken), Vada Pav (Indian burger), Dhokla (steamed cake made from chickpea flour) and Khandvi (gram flour rolls).
###Is it safe to travel to Silvassa during COVID-19 pandemic?
It's advisable to follow all COVID-19 guidelines issued by the government while traveling to any destination including Silvassa. It's important to wear masks at all times, maintain social distancing norms and carry a sanitizer with you at all times. Additionally, it's always recommended that you check with your hotel or resort regarding their COVID-19 protocols before making any bookings.
