The
Mahal region situated 60 km away from Saputara is dominated by the Purna
Sanctuary. The longish drive passes through the most beautiful parts of
Dangs with high wooded slopes of bamboo. It is endowed with rivers &
bamboo glades and is a must for picnics, walks and treks.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS:
Purna Sanctuary: A vast
and rich forest laced with the Purna and Gira rivers. The hilly region
with its cool interiors would tempt any tourist to explore. You would
need a pair of sturdy shoes and packed lunch to best explore the cool
interior of this hilly forest. Less strenuous and easy walks are
pleasurable. Picnic huts are also available for use. Permission is
required to enter the forest.
Girmal Falls: Easily the
most marvellous sight during monsoons, the Girmal Falls is a little off
the Mahal-Singana Road. The approach leads via a tribal village to a
steep fall on the Gira River. The faint hillside is rich with rare flora
and is worth exploring by the more adventurous trekkers. Provision for
light refreshments are available. Picnic huts are available for use.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS:
Cultural Show At Ahwa: As
the tourist heads back to Saputara, a halt at Ahwa to enjoy the fast
paced and acrobatic Dangi dance would be the best way to say goodbye to
Dangs. The dance had been performed at the Festival of India in Paris
and is one of the most entertaining dances of this region. Held at the
open-air theatre Rangupvan, the show is highly recommended.
Dangs Darbar: An annual
colourful tribal festival held prior to Holi (generally March/April), at
Ahwa. It's a five-day fun filled colourful affair where the tribals
congregate to celebrate an old custom of political pensions given to the
tribal kings. There is merry making, dance, music, colour and a brisk
buying and selling of tribal wares. The tourist can participate and
enjoy the festivities of this unique celebration.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Air: Nearest airport is
Mumbai .
Rail: Nearest railway
station is Waghai, on the Billimora - Waghai narrow gauge section of the
Western Railway. For those coming from Gujarat via Surat or Ahmedabad or
even tom Bombay, Billimora is the most convenient rail head as direct
bus service is available from there.
Road: State transport
buses end private luxury coaches connects various centres of Gujarat and
Maharashtra . It is situated 409 kms from Ahmedabad and 51 kms from
Waghai.
Local Transport: Hired
jeeps from Ahwa; organised tours within and outside Saputara in mini
buses by Chitrakoot/ Vaity during peak seasons (two buses). Organised
tours by TCGL.
