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Daman and Diu

Discovering Spirituality And Adventure In Silvassa

By: Travel and Food Network
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Nestled in the lap of the Western Ghats, Silvassa, the capital of the Indian Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli, beckons travelers with its serene landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant amalgamation of nature and modernity. Silvassa once happened to be a Portuguese hub. It underwent transformation when the Portuguese rulers elevated it to city status in 1885. Despite its historical evolution, Silvassa retains a serene ambiance, making it an ideal destination for a tranquil vacation. The town boasts a collection of captivating tourist attractions that add to its allure.

Must See Attractions

Baps Shri Swaminarayan Temple: Situated on the banks of the DamanGanga River, the Baps Shri Swaminarayan Temple is renowned for its exquisite artwork and magnificent architecture. Encircled by verdant lawns, the temple's ethereal beauty is further accentuated. Devoted to Bhagwan Swaminarayan, it holds immense reverence among the Gujarati community. The central mandir, crafted with intricate detail from light pink marble, stands as a serene gem among the attractions of Silvassa. What sets this temple apart is its unique construction devoid of cement or structural steel. Adorned with artistically designed domes, the temple's walls proudly showcase idols of distinguished Indian saints. The atmosphere is steeped in divinity, heightened by the melodious prayer chants and aartis performed by the dedicated priests, making a visit to this temple a truly transcendent experience.


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Our Lady Of Piety Church: Our Lady Of Piety Church stands as an iconic Catholic monument, celebrated for its breathtaking architecture that transports visitors to a bygone era. Revered as a central sanctuary for devotion, this church opened its doors to the public on October 27, 1889, earning its distinction as one of the oldest churches in Silvassa. Adorned with stained glass, wooden pews, window panes, a wooden high altar, and a Mural of the Last Supper, it exudes a timeless beauty. The church endured damage from an earthquake in 1912, prompting closure for extensive renovations. However, it once again welcomed the public in June 1924, emerging as a stunning testament to divinity and tranquility. This enduring structure stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of its era, proclaiming its resilience and significance in the landscape of Silvassa.

Vasona Lion Safari Park: Vasona Lion Safari Park constitutes a segment of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli wildlife sanctuary. Positioned just 10 kilometers from the city center, along the Khanvel–Silvassa road, this park shares its proximity with Satmalia Deer Park.

Established with the primary goal of safeguarding Asiatic lions, the Vasona Lion Safari Park endeavors to monitor their breeding process and provide essential sustenance and medical care to the cubs until they are capable of hunting on their own. Spanning across 25 hectares, the park is enclosed by robust chained walls to ensure visitor safety.


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Khanvel: A haven for nature enthusiasts, Khanvel beckons you to immerse yourself in its tranquil beauty during your Silvassa sojourn. Situated approximately 20 kilometers south of Silvassa, this destination is tailor-made for those who savor a leisurely pace and appreciate the art of unhurried elegance. The allure of Khanvel is accentuated by the presence of the Sakartod River, a mesmerizing ribbon of crystal-blue weaving through its landscape. Within the confines of Khanvel, the Van Vihar Tourist Complex unfolds a tapestry of attractions, including a deer park, a greenhouse, and riverbank hotels. For those with an inclination towards the exotic, a cactus house is also nestled within this scenic complex.

Vanganga Lake Garden: Vanganga Lake Garden stands out as one of Silvassa's premier tourist destinations. Situated adjacent to a picturesque lake, this garden spans over 7 hectares and is positioned along the Silvassa–Vapi road, approximately 6 kilometers away from the city center. A favored spot among morning walkers and evening joggers, the garden boasts well-maintained jogging tracks that crisscross the entire expanse. Lined with soothing flower beds on both sides, these paths offer a serene retreat making it a popular choice not only for fitness enthusiasts but also for filmmakers who frequent the location for shooting song sequences. Vanganga Lake Garden, with its harmonious blend of nature and recreational facilities, stands as a testament to Silvassa's charm and allure.

Dudhni: Not too long ago, Dudhni was merely a local retreat, cherished by residents seeking a brief respite. However, the tides have turned, and Dudhni, situated approximately 40 kilometers from Silvassa, has now evolved into a prominent tourist hotspot for those exploring Silvassa. This transformation can be attributed to the creation of the Madhuban Dam on the Daman Ganga, which has given rise to a picturesque waterfront in Dudhni. Seizing this opportunity, the tourism department of Dadra and Nagar Haveli has invested efforts in establishing Dudhni as a premier destination for water sports enthusiasts. Beyond the thrill of water-based activities, Dudhni offers captivating landscapes for visitors to revel in.


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Tribal Cultural Museum: A prominent attraction drawing tourists to Silvassa, the Tribal Cultural Museum offers a glimpse into the lifestyles and tools of the indigenous tribal communities of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Immerse yourself in a rich collection of tribal artifacts, including masks, hunting implements, handcrafted musical instruments, fishing gear, kitchen utensils, and more. The primary objective of this museum is the preservation and promotion of tribal culture.

Silvassa is no ordinary destination; it remains somewhat undiscovered, spared from the heavy footfall of tourists that often characterizes more frequented locales. This seclusion has allowed Silvassa to retain its inherent charm and natural beauty. Conveniently situated just approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes away from Ahmedabad, and a mere 3-hour drive from Mumbai, Silvassa emerges as the ideal weekend retreat for those hailing from Gujarat or Maharashtra. The enchanting attractions within Silvassa beckon, promising to captivate your heart and leave you yearning for more. In the embrace of Silvassa, amidst its wonders, one might discover a rare opportunity for self-reflection and a connection with the serenity that defines this unique locale.