Dadra and Nagar Haveli
General Information
Area : 491 sq km
Population : 2 million
Capital : Silvassa
Languages Spoken : Gujarati, Hindi, Bhili
Best Time to Visit : November to March
Introduction
The union territory has lush green forests covered with tall trees, meandering rivers, large waterfronts, cascading waterfalls, the gentle gurgle of streams, the distant hills, and a gorgeous kaleidoscope of flora and fauna. The serene and sylvan land of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is Nature at her best.
This quiet magical land of 70 villages, sandwiched between the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat, near Daman, was under the Portuguese, till it attained freedom in 1954. The people took over the administration under the system of self-government.
The hospitable native tribals have their own customs, dances and rituals, which are quite fascinating.
Places to visit
Hirwa Van, Piparia - Silvassa
On the Silvassa-Dadra road is a beautiful garden, with roaring waterfalls, misty cascades, rustic stone walls, twin arches, tiny kiosks and lawns interspersed with islands of flowers.
Vanganga Lake and Island Garden, Dadra
Only 5 kms from the capital town, Silvassa, is a beautiful lake garden, with rustic wooden bridges, a sea of flowers, jogging paths, thatched huts, and paddle boats. Songs of more than 25 Hindi feature films have been picturized here.
Vanvihar Tourist Complex, Chauda, Khanvel
20 kms away from Silvassa, on a road lined with tall trees in midst of forest, is Khanvel. The beautiful verdant land, surrounded by lush green hills, beckons you with its rolling meadows, terraced gardens, cottages in the native style, and the river Sakartod flowing past. There's a deer park, cactus house, and green house.
Water Sports and Tentage Complex, Dudhni
Another 20 kms drive from Khanvel is Dudhni, where the large waterfront of river Damanganga provides breathtaking view of the Madhuban Dam. Luxurious tents are pitched right near the banks of the dam.
How To Get there
Road : National Highway No8 (Western Express Highway) just pass by the region. The state capital Silvassa is well connected with the important cities of western India -
Rail : The nearest railhead is Vapi. Important trains regularly serve this railways station
Air : Although Dadra & Nagar Haveli does not have an airport within its territory, the nearest airport Mumbai is only 164kms away.