Hill Stations in Gujarat: A Complete Travel Guide

Introduction

When you think of Gujarat, the first images that come to mind are its vast salt desert Rann of Kutch, the Gir National Park, and the magnificent Somnath and Dwarka temples. However, Gujarat is not just about plains, deserts, and heritage sites. The state also has scenic hill stations that offer lush greenery, pleasant climate, and serene landscapes. These destinations are perfect for travelers who want to escape the heat of the plains and experience nature at its best.

In this guide, we explore the most popular hill stations in Gujarat, how to reach them, and the best attractions to explore.

1. Saputara Hill Station – The Crown of Gujarat

Saputara is the most famous and only recognized hill station in Gujarat, located in the Dang district in the Sahyadri range. Sitting at an altitude of about 1,000 meters, Saputara is known for its cool climate, misty valleys, and tribal culture.

How to Reach Saputara

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Surat Airport (156 km).
  • By Train: Waghai Railway Station (50 km) is the nearest.
  • By Road: Saputara is well connected by road from Surat (160 km), Nashik (80 km), and Ahmedabad (400 km).

Places to Visit in Saputara

  • Saputara Lake: A serene spot with boating facilities.
  • Sunrise and Sunset Points: Offering breathtaking views of the valley.
  • Gira Waterfalls: A seasonal waterfall, best visited during monsoon.
  • Saputara Tribal Museum: Showcasing the art and lifestyle of local tribes.
  • Step Garden and Rose Garden: Beautifully landscaped gardens ideal for evening walks.

2. Wilson Hills – A Hidden Paradise

Located near Dharampur in the Valsad district, Wilson Hills is one of the few hill stations in Gujarat that offers a view of the sea from the hills. At an altitude of about 750 meters, it remains pleasantly cool throughout the year.

How to Reach Wilson Hills

  • By Air: The nearest airport is Surat Airport (120 km).
  • By Train: Valsad Railway Station (60 km) is the nearest railhead.
  • By Road: Wilson Hills is accessible via road from Valsad (60 km) and Ahmedabad (370 km).

Places to Visit in Wilson Hills

  • Marble Chhatri Point: Known for panoramic valley views.
  • Ozone Valley: A green valley filled with mist and fresh air.
  • Lady Wilson Museum: A small museum dedicated to local heritage.
  • Barumal Temple: A spiritual site amid the forest.

3. Don Hill Station – The New Emerging Gem

Don Hill Station, is located near Saputara in Dang district. It lies at a higher altitude than Saputara and is relatively untouched by commercialization, making it ideal for peace seekers.

How to Reach Don Hill

  • By Air: Surat Airport (170 km) is the nearest.
  • By Train: Waghai Railway Station (60 km) connects to Don Hill.
  • By Road: Accessible via Saputara (30 km).

Attractions at Don Hill

  • Scenic Trekking Routes with thick forests and tribal villages.
  • Natural Waterfalls during monsoon.
  • Don Eco-Tourism Campsite offering rustic stays.

4. Girnar Hills – Sacred Heights of Junagadh

Girnar Hills, near Junagadh, is both a hill station and a major pilgrimage site. The hills are famous for Jain temples, Hindu shrines, and scenic trekking paths.

How to Reach Girnar Hills

  • By Air: Rajkot Airport (105 km) and Porbandar Airport (113 km).
  • By Train: Junagadh Railway Station (5 km).
  • By Road: Well connected to Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Porbandar.

Places to Visit in Girnar

  • Ambaji Temple: Atop Girnar Hill, reached by climbing 10,000+ steps or via the new ropeway.
  • Jain Temples: Some of the oldest temples in India.
  • Uparkot Fort: Historic fort offering panoramic city views.
  • Mt. Girnar Ropeway: India’s longest ropeway ride.

5. Polo Forest – Nature’s Hideout

Though technically more of a valley with hilly terrain, Polo Forest near Idar in Sabarkantha district is a favorite getaway for nature lovers. With dense forests, rivers, and ancient temples, it provides a hill-station-like experience.

How to Reach Polo Forest

  • By Air: Ahmedabad Airport (150 km).
  • By Train: Himmatnagar Railway Station (70 km).
  • By Road: Well connected from Ahmedabad and Udaipur.

Places to Visit in Polo Forest

  • Ancient Shiva Temple: A 15th-century temple inside the forest.
  • Harnav River: Ideal for picnics.
  • Eco Campsites: Perfect for nature lovers and trekkers.

6. Pavagadh Hills – The Pilgrim’s Hill Station

Located near Champaner, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pavagadh Hills rise sharply from the plains, creating a dramatic landscape. It is both a hill retreat and a sacred destination.

How to Reach Pavagadh Hills

  • By Air: Vadodara Airport (50 km).
  • By Train: Vadodara Railway Station (50 km).
  • By Road: Easily accessible from Vadodara and Ahmedabad.

Attractions at Pavagadh

  • Maa Mahakalika Temple: A highly revered temple at the top.
  • Champaner Archaeological Park: UNESCO heritage ruins at the foothills.
  • Ropeway Ride: Offers scenic views of the landscape.

7. Idar Hills – The Rocky Retreat

Idar Hills in Sabarkantha district are rocky granite hills known for their unique formations, caves, and temples. It’s a great spot for trekking and photography.

How to Reach Idar Hills

  • By Air: Ahmedabad Airport (110 km).
  • By Train: Himmatnagar (30 km).
  • By Road: Well connected to Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar.

Things to Do

  • Trekking up the rocky hills.
  • Visiting Shiv temples and old forts.
  • Watching the stunning sunrise and sunset.

Best Time to Visit Hill Stations in Gujarat

  • Summer (March to June): Ideal for escaping heat.
  • Monsoon (July to September): Best for waterfalls and lush greenery.
  • Winter (October to February): Perfect for trekking and sightseeing.

FAQs on Hill Stations in Gujarat

Q1. Which is the most famous hill station in Gujarat?
Saputara is the most popular and developed hill station in Gujarat.

Q2. Does Gujarat have any other hill stations apart from Saputara?
Yes, Wilson Hills, Don Hill, Girnar, Pavagadh, and Polo Forest are also great hill getaways.

Q3. What is the best time to visit Saputara?
The best time is July to September (monsoon) for waterfalls and greenery, and October to February for pleasant weather.

Q4. Are there adventure activities in Gujarat’s hill stations?
Yes, trekking, ropeway rides, camping, and boating are available in places like Saputara, Girnar, and Polo Forest.

Q5. Which hill station in Gujarat is best for religious tourism?
Girnar Hills and Pavagadh Hills are popular for Jain and Hindu pilgrimage.

Conclusion

Though Gujarat is often celebrated for its cultural heritage, wildlife sanctuaries, and deserts, its hill stations offer an entirely different experience. From the misty valleys of Saputara, the hidden charm of Wilson Hills, the spiritual heights of Girnar, to the eco-retreats of Polo Forest, Gujarat’s hill getaways are diverse and refreshing.

If you’re planning a trip to Gujarat, make sure to add one of these hill stations to your itinerary for a memorable blend of nature, culture, and adventure.

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