Silvassa

Silvassa (Gujarati: સેલ્વાસ) is an industrial town in Western India, wedged between Gujarat and Maharashtra. It is part of the former Portuguese colony of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Until the end of the 19th century, Silvassa was only a small village, but it became more important in 1885 when the Portuguese administration transferred the seat of its Nagar Haveli colony here. Today, Silvassa hosts many factories and industries providing significant government revenue, allowing the city to maintain a low level of taxation. The town is also popular among Gujaratis for drinking, as alcohol is banned in Gujarat.

The native tribal communities have their own customs, dances, and rituals which are quite fascinating. The city enjoys a very pleasant climate from November to March, which is the best time for a visit. Temperatures during summer are comfortable too, even during the day, due to its proximity to the sea.

By Plane

Surat International Airport (STV) is 138 km away. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) in Mumbai is 159 km away. From either airport, taxis and buses connect to Silvassa.

By Train

Vapi railway station (12 km) is the nearest railhead on the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Western Railway route. Major Delhi–Mumbai and Mumbai–Ahmedabad trains halt here. Auto-rickshaws ply regularly between Vapi and Silvassa.

By Car / Road

Silvassa is connected to Maharashtra and Gujarat via National Highway 848A. GSRTC buses run regularly between Silvassa and Vapi. Daman is 30 km away via Bhilad on NH 48, Mumbai is 160 km away, and Surat is 130 km away.

Auto-rickshaws and local buses are available for getting around the city. For day trips, hiring a taxi is convenient.

• Tribal Cultural Museum — Displays the rich heritage and artefacts of the local tribal communities.

• Hirva Van Garden — Near Pipariya on the Silvassa–Vapi Road, close to the Daman Ganga River. A well-maintained garden for picnics and relaxation.

• Vanganga Garden — In nearby Dadra, features boating facilities and landscaped grounds.

• Van Dhara Garden — Near the Daman Ganga River, a scenic garden with water features.

• Nakshatra Garden — A garden themed around the zodiac, popular with families.

• Children's Park — A recreational park for families and kids.

• Our Lady of Piety (Silvassa Church) — A historic church in the town.

• Temples — Park Ayyappa Temple, Park Balaji Temple, and Park Ram Temple are notable places of worship.

• Boating at Vanganga Garden — Enjoy paddle boats on the lake within the garden complex.

• Explore the tribal villages — Experience the unique customs, dances, and rituals of the local Warli and Dhodia communities.

• Day trip to Daman — Just 30 km away, the coastal former Portuguese enclave is an easy excursion.

Silvassa offers a mix of Gujarati, Maharashtrian, and generic Indian cuisine. Being a former Portuguese enclave, some influence remains. There are several restaurants and dhabas along the main roads serving thalis and vegetarian fare.

Alcohol is freely available in Silvassa (unlike neighbouring Gujarat). Country Liquor Shop at the bus stand on Khanvel Road (+91 98987 78979, 8AM–9PM) is a notable outlet. Stick to bottled water.

• Budget: Dan Tourist Hotel (Tokarkhada Rd), Ritz Hotel (Khanvel Rd, near bus station), Hotel Woodland (near bus station).
• Mid-range: Daman Ganga Valley Resort — Portuguese-style resort on the banks of the Daman Ganga River adjacent to Van Dhara Garden. ₹2,690–₹3,642. Check-in/out 12PM.
• Upscale: Ras Resort (Naroli Rd) — River views, outdoor pool, bar. ₹4,207–₹5,879. VITS Kamats (Naroli Rd) is another premium option.

The Vegetable Market (Bavisa Faliya, +91 96626 99077, 7AM–10PM) is the main local market. Tribal handicrafts and Warli-style paintings make good souvenirs.

• Daman — 30 km, a coastal town with Portuguese forts, churches, and beaches.
• Diu — A beautiful island with Portuguese architecture and beaches, further south in Gujarat.
• Surat — 130 km, one of India's fastest-developing cities, known for its diamond and textile industries.
• Dadra and Nagar Haveli Wildlife Sanctuary — Nearby, with an antelope park and lion safari.