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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.
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.
How
to Reach
By road, Dadra and Nagar Haveli , almost touches the
Bombay - Baroda - Delhi National Highway No.8
(Western Express Highway). Silvassa is about 14 kms,
from Bhilad and Vapi. The nearest railway station is
Vapi via Western Railways, which is about 18 kms
from Silvassa. Bombay is the nearest airport.
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