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 Dadar and Nagar Haveli, 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 was liberated on August 2, 1954. As an area it is confined to less than 500 sq. km, covered with tall, awesome trees and winding rivers. 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.

Sightseeing

Teak and other varieties of trees blanket nearly the entire territory. Primitive races and clans inhabit the few villages in and around the capital. A boating on the river Damanganga, which flows through the territory, can be an exhilarating experience. A peep into tribal settlements, escorted by a trained guide is a popular tourist pursuit. At Silvassa and Khanvel, there are beautiful gardens. At Khanvel, a tourist complex called "Van Vihar" has been set up. At Brindaban, the Sakartod river flows beside the ancient Tarakeshwara Temple, dedicated to an incarnation of Parvati, consort of Lord Shiva. Today, it is a popular picnic spot.

Places to see

Vanganga Lake and Island Lake

It is a lovely lake garden, where more than 25 Hindi feature films have been picturised. The rustic wooden bridges, jogging paths, thatched huts and paddle boats make it an ideal picnic spot - 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

If you are too lazy to do some actual exploring, 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 get there?

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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