Exploring Nature in Saputara: A One-Day Itinerary

1. 9:00AM: Saputara Lake
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Hotel Anando

   Saputara Lake is a popular spot for boating and enjoying nature. Surrounded by lush greenery, you can take a pedal boat or a motorboat and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake. The lake is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the boating charges are approximately INR 50-100 per person.

2. 10:30AM: Step Garden
   5 minutes (0.5 miles) from Saputara Lake

   Step Garden is a terraced garden with several steps and is a popular spot for photography. The garden has different varieties of flowers and trees, and it is an excellent place to relax and enjoy nature. The garden opens every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the entry fee is approximately INR 10 per person.

3. 12:00PM: Artist Village
   15 minutes (2.5 miles) from Step Garden

   Artist Village is a cultural center that promotes tribal arts and crafts. The village has several huts that showcase the art and culture of the tribal community. You can buy handicrafts, paintings, and other souvenirs from the village. The village opens every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the entry fee is approximately INR 20 per person.

4. 1:30PM: Sunset Point
   25 minutes (5 miles) from Artist Village

   Sunset Point is a popular spot to watch the sunset over the Sahyadri mountain range. The point offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can also enjoy tea and snacks at the nearby stalls. The point is open every day from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and there is no entry fee.

5. 3:00PM: Gira Waterfall
   30 minutes (8 miles) from Sunset Point

   Gira Waterfall is a scenic waterfall located in the dense forest. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is an excellent spot for nature lovers. You can take a dip in the cool water and enjoy the natural beauty of the place. The waterfall is open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the entry fee is approximately INR 40 per person.

6. 5:00PM: Purna Sanctuary
   45 minutes (12 miles) from Gira Waterfall

   Purna Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary that is home to several rare and endangered species of birds and animals. The sanctuary has several trekking trails, and you can spot animals like leopards, tigers, and sloth bears if you are lucky. The sanctuary is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the entry fee is approximately INR 50 per person.

Recommendations

If you are interested in adventure activities, you can try ziplining or paragliding in Saputara. You can also visit the Hatgadh Fort and the Nageshwar Mahadev Temple if you have extra time.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Saputara Lake (1 hour, INR 50-100)
• Step Garden (1 hour, INR 10)
• Artist Village (1.5 hours, INR 20)
• Sunset Point (1.5 hours, free)
• Gira Waterfall (2 hours, INR 40)
• Purna Sanctuary (2 hours, INR 50)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 170-260