Gujarat’s Verdant Monsoon Retreat
Nestled in the Sahyadri range of the Western Ghats, Saputara is Gujarat's only hill station. All year round, it offers a cool escape, but it’s during the monsoon—typically from July to September—that the region truly comes alive. The rains wash over the hills,
filling the air with the scent of wet earth and turning the entire landscape into a vibrant carpet of green. Waterfalls that are mere trickles for most of the year, like the popular Gira Falls, become powerful, roaring cascades. It’s this dramatic, rain-soaked transformation that Gujarat Tourism decided to celebrate, creating an annual event to draw visitors into this seasonal wonderland.
The Megh Malhar Festival: A Celebration of Rain
To showcase the region's monsoon beauty and boost local tourism, the state government launched the Saputara Monsoon Festival, also known as Megh Malhar Parv. This month-long extravaganza typically runs from late July through August. The festival is designed to be a vibrant mix of cultural performances, adventure activities, local crafts, and food, turning the sleepy hill station into a hub of activity. The streets are adorned with themed decorations, and various venues across the town host a wide array of events, from folk dance performances to art workshops. The goal is to celebrate the deep connection between the local Dangi tribal culture and the natural world.
A Schedule Packed with Culture and Adventure
The festival's schedule is deliberately diverse, offering something for every type of traveler. Cultural programs often feature a grand inaugural parade with folk dance troupes from Gujarat and other states, such as Lavani from Maharashtra and Bhangra from Punjab. Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions through workshops on Warli painting and bamboo crafting, or watch talented local artists perform. For thrill-seekers, there are adventure activities like boating on Saputara Lake, ziplining, and trekking on designated nature trails. Events like a 'Rain Run' marathon and various competitions ensure that the atmosphere remains festive and engaging throughout the month.
Exploring the Heart of Dangi Culture
The festival is a fantastic opportunity to experience the unique culture of the local Dangi community. The Saputara Tribal Museum offers a deep dive into the lifestyle, costumes, and heritage of the area's indigenous people. The festival itself becomes a living museum, with artisans from the Artist Village showcasing their handmade crafts, from intricate Warli paintings to bamboo artifacts. Food stalls are a major highlight, allowing visitors to sample local Dangi cuisine. Dishes often feature millets like ragi, seasonal forest produce, and unique preparations such as Bhujiyu, a dip made from roasted lentils. This focus on local culture and economy is a core part of the festival's mission, providing a platform for local communities to thrive.
Beyond the Festival: Rain-Soaked Sights
Even outside the official festival events, Saputara's natural attractions are at their best during the monsoon. The famous Sunset Point and Sunrise Point offer breathtaking views of the mist-covered valleys and tribal villages below. The Ropeway, a cable car that glides over the valley, provides a stunning panoramic perspective of the lush landscape. A short drive from the main town takes you to Gira Falls, which becomes a spectacular sight during this season. Well-maintained gardens like the Step Garden and Lake Garden provide serene spots for a quiet stroll, allowing you to simply soak in the cool, rain-washed atmosphere of the hills.
