Silvassa Travel Guide

Why is Silvassa special?

As a local, I can tell you Silvassa is more than just an industrial hub; it's a green haven, a perfect weekend retreat where you can truly unwind amidst nature and devotion.

Silvassa offers a laid-back, family-friendly vibe, characterized by its numerous well-maintained gardens, serene temples, and a slower pace of life. It's a peaceful escape from the bustling metropolises, with a touch of spiritual calm.

• Abundance of lush, well-manicured gardens perfect for relaxation and picnics.
• A unique blend of spiritual sites, including grand Swaminarayan temples and ancient Ayyappa shrines.
• Proximity to natural waterfalls and a tranquil riverfront, offering scenic beauty.
• A quiet, less-commercialized destination ideal for a rejuvenating getaway.
• Rich tribal heritage reflected in local crafts and culture.

What should you see in Silvassa?

• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

  what locals do

  Locals visit for evening aarti, spiritual solace, and to admire the intricate architecture. Many bring their families for a peaceful outing.

  best time

  Evening (4 PM - 8 PM) for aarti and cooler temperatures, or early morning for quiet contemplation.

  cost

  INR 0 (Free)

  local tip

  Dress modestly as it's a place of worship. Photography is usually allowed outside but check for restrictions inside.

  observation

  A magnificent modern temple complex, known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance, especially beautiful when lit up at night.

  Google Maps rating

  4.6

  Address

  Off, Silvassa - Bhilad Rd, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396235, India

  View on Google Maps

• Nakshatra Van

  what locals do

  Families and couples enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and finding their birth star tree. It's a popular spot for morning walks.

  best time

  Morning (6 AM - 9 AM) or late afternoon (4 PM - 6 PM) to avoid the midday sun.

  cost

  INR 20-50 (Entry fee, varies)

  local tip

  Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking. Carry water, especially during warmer months.

  observation

  A unique garden designed around astrological concepts, with trees corresponding to zodiac signs and nakshatras, offering both beauty and a touch of mysticism.

  Google Maps rating

  4.4

  Address

  7XHM+H85, near Vandhara Garden, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396230, India

  View on Google Maps

• Vanganga Garden

  what locals do

  Boating on the lake, relaxing by the water, and enjoying the well-maintained lawns. It's a classic family picnic spot.

  best time

  Late afternoon (3 PM - 6 PM) for boating and enjoying the sunset.

  cost

  INR 20 (Entry fee), INR 50-100 (Boating per person)

  local tip

  The garden can get crowded on weekends, so visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience.

  observation

  A picturesque island garden with a charming lake, offering paddle boating and lush greenery, making it a popular recreational spot.

  Google Maps rating

  4.2

  Address

  Silvasa Road, 8X6C+R3Q, near Dadra Resort, Dadra, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396193, India

  View on Google Maps

• Tirupathi Balaji Temple

  what locals do

  Devotees visit for darshan and to offer prayers. It's a significant spiritual site for the local community.

  best time

  Morning (7 AM - 12 PM) for peaceful darshan.

  cost

  INR 0 (Free)

  local tip

  Check for specific puja timings if you wish to participate in rituals.

  observation

  A replica of the famous Tirupati Balaji Temple, offering a similar spiritual experience and architectural grandeur in Silvassa.

  Google Maps rating

  4.6

  Address

  balaji mandir road, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396230, India

  View on Google Maps

• Hirwa Van Garden

  what locals do

  Locals come here for morning walks, jogging, and to enjoy the waterfalls and rock formations. It's a refreshing green space.

  best time

  Early morning (6 AM - 8 AM) or late afternoon (5 PM - 7 PM).

  cost

  INR 0 (Free)

  local tip

  Look out for the small waterfalls, especially during monsoon or post-monsoon season.

  observation

  A beautifully landscaped garden featuring cascading waterfalls, rustic stone walls, and vibrant flowerbeds, offering a tranquil escape.

  Google Maps rating

  4.1

  Address

  7XQW+P5M, Silvassa - Vapi Rd, Near Pipariya Police Station,Opposite Sahkar Bhavan, Danudyog Industrial Estate, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396230, India

  View on Google Maps

• Om Mandir

  what locals do

  A place for quiet prayer and meditation, often visited by those seeking spiritual peace away from larger crowds.

  best time

  Anytime during daylight hours for quiet reflection.

  cost

  INR 0 (Free)

  local tip

  It's a smaller, more intimate temple, so maintain quietude.

  observation

  A serene temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its peaceful atmosphere and simple yet elegant architecture.

  Google Maps rating

  4.6

  Address

  road, Kudacha, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396230, India

  View on Google Maps

• Vandhara Garden

  what locals do

  Popular for evening strolls, family outings, and enjoying the musical fountain. Kids love the play areas.

  best time

  Evening (6 PM - 8 PM) to witness the musical fountain show.

  cost

  INR 0 (Free)

  local tip

  Arrive a bit early to get a good spot for the musical fountain.

  observation

  A well-maintained garden with a musical fountain, play areas for children, and ample space for relaxation, making it a lively evening spot.

  Google Maps rating

  4.3

  Address

  7XCP+PRX, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396230, India

  View on Google Maps

• Our Lady of Piety Church

  what locals do

  Attending Sunday mass, or simply visiting for its historical significance and peaceful ambiance.

  best time

  Sunday mornings for mass, or any quiet afternoon for a visit.

  cost

  INR 0 (Free)

  local tip

  Respect the sanctity of the place; keep noise levels down.

  observation

  A historic church reflecting Portuguese architectural influences, offering a serene and spiritual experience amidst the town's greenery.

  Google Maps rating

  4.5

  Address

  72C3+8X2, Sayli Rd, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396230, India

  View on Google Maps

• Silvassa river front

  what locals do

  Evening walks, enjoying the cool breeze, and watching the sunset over the Daman Ganga river.

  best time

  Sunset (5 PM - 7 PM) for the best views and pleasant weather.

  cost

  INR 0 (Free)

  local tip

  It's a great spot for photography during golden hour.

  observation

  A scenic promenade along the Daman Ganga river, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the natural beauty of the riverside.

  Google Maps rating

  4.6

  Address

  7XCP+PRX, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu 396230, India

  View on Google Maps

• DAMAN GANGA DAM

  what locals do

  Picnics, enjoying the vast reservoir views, and bird watching during migratory seasons.

  best time

  Monsoon and post-monsoon (July - October) when the dam is full and surroundings are lush.

  cost

  INR 0 (Free)

  local tip

  Be cautious near the water and follow any safety guidelines.

  observation

  A significant dam on the Daman Ganga river, offering panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape, especially impressive during the rainy season.

  Google Maps rating

  4.2

  Address

  8WR6+3M8, Vapi, Gujarat 396195, India

  View on Google Maps

Ratings and opening hours from Google Maps.

What do most visitors miss in Silvassa?

• Umarkui Waterfall Point

  description

  A lesser-known natural waterfall, particularly vibrant during the monsoon season, offering a refreshing escape into nature.

  how to reach

  Best reached by private vehicle or auto-rickshaw from Silvassa town. It's a bit off the main road.

  why locals love it

  It's a tranquil spot away from the crowds, perfect for a short nature break and enjoying the raw beauty of the region, especially after good rains.

  sensory detail

  The sound of rushing water, the cool mist on your face, and the earthy smell of wet soil and lush greenery.

• Mini waterfall Bonta

  description

  A small, charming waterfall nestled in a green pocket, ideal for a quick dip or a peaceful picnic amidst nature.

  how to reach

  Accessible by car or two-wheeler. Follow local directions as it's not always clearly signposted.

  why locals love it

  It's a local secret for a refreshing dip during hot days and a serene spot to unwind without much fuss.

  sensory detail

  The gentle gurgle of water, the feel of cool, clear water, and the sight of sunlight filtering through dense foliage.

• Daman ganga river front circuit house side

  description

  A quieter, more secluded stretch of the Daman Ganga riverfront, offering undisturbed views and a peaceful atmosphere for contemplation.

  how to reach

  Located near the Circuit House, easily reachable by auto-rickshaw or private car. It's a short drive from the main Silvassa riverfront.

  why locals love it

  It's less developed than the main riverfront, providing a more natural and serene setting for evening walks or quiet moments.

  sensory detail

  The soft rustle of leaves, the distant sound of the river, and the calming expanse of water reflecting the sky.

• Bal Udyan Park

  description

  A delightful children's park with various rides and play equipment, often overlooked by adult tourists but a favorite among local families.

  how to reach

  Centrally located in Samarvarni, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or walking from nearby areas.

  why locals love it

  It's a safe and fun environment for kids, offering a simple yet enjoyable outing for families without the crowds of larger attractions.

  sensory detail

  The joyful shouts of children, the bright colors of playground equipment, and the smell of fresh air mixed with popcorn from nearby vendors.

Where should you eat in Silvassa?

• VITS Kamats - Silvassa

  dish

  South Indian Thali, Pav Bhaji

  cost

  INR 300-500

  area

  Naroli Rd

  what makes special

  Known for its reliable quality, wide range of Indian cuisines, and family-friendly atmosphere. A safe bet for good food.

  timing hack

  Visit during off-peak hours (between lunch and dinner) to avoid the rush, especially on weekends.

• Red Chillee Restro

  dish

  Paneer Tikka Masala, Chicken Handi

  cost

  INR 400-700

  area

  Kilvani Rd

  what makes special

  Offers a diverse menu of North Indian and Chinese dishes in a comfortable, modern setting. Good for a proper sit-down meal.

  timing hack

  Make a reservation for dinner on weekends, as it can get quite busy.

• The Roasters

  dish

  Coffee, Sandwiches, Pastries

  cost

  INR 200-400

  area

  Naroli Rd, Dadra

  what makes special

  A contemporary cafe offering excellent coffee, light bites, and a relaxed ambiance, perfect for a quick break or casual meeting.

  timing hack

  Go in the late afternoon for a quiet coffee break before the evening crowd.

• The Big Tummy Restaurant And Caterers

  dish

  Gujarati Thali, Punjabi Dishes

  cost

  INR 350-600

  area

  Tokarkhada, Samarvarni

  what makes special

  Known for its generous portions and authentic regional flavors, particularly popular for its thalis.

  timing hack

  Lunchtime can be bustling; arrive early to secure a table without waiting.

• HOTEL NATRAJ

  dish

  Local Gujarati Snacks, Simple Indian Meals

  cost

  INR 250-450

  area

  Silvasa Char Rasta

  what makes special

  A long-standing local eatery offering traditional Indian fare at reasonable prices. A no-frills, authentic experience.

  timing hack

  Great for an early breakfast to try local snacks before the day heats up.

• Lazeez Family Dhaba (Bavisa Faliya Silvassa)

  dish

  Tandoori Chicken, Dal Makhani

  cost

  INR 300-550

  area

  Bavisa Faliya

  what makes special

  A rustic dhaba-style restaurant offering hearty North Indian and Mughlai dishes, known for its robust flavors.

  timing hack

  Ideal for a late-night dinner, as dhabas often stay open later than other restaurants.

• Amrut Farm And Restaurant

  dish

  Farm-to-table Indian cuisine, Fresh Juices

  cost

  INR 400-700

  area

  Sayli Rd

  what makes special

  Offers a unique dining experience in a farm setting, focusing on fresh ingredients and a relaxed, natural ambiance.

  timing hack

  Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the farm setting and greenery.

Most local eateries open by 8 AM for breakfast and serve until 10 PM. For a truly local experience, try breakfast at a smaller 'dhaba' or 'nashta' joint. Dinner rush is typically between 8 PM and 9:30 PM.

How much does a day in Silvassa cost?

How do you get around Silvassa?

• Auto-rickshaws

  details

  Widely available for short distances within Silvassa and to nearby attractions. Fares are usually negotiated.

  cost

  INR 50-200 depending on distance

• Local Buses

  details

  Limited network, primarily for connecting major points within the city and to nearby villages. Not ideal for tourist sightseeing.

  cost

  INR 10-30

• Private Taxis/Cabs

  details

  Best for full-day sightseeing or travel to slightly distant attractions. Can be booked through hotels or local operators.

  cost

  INR 1500-3000 for a full day (8 hours/80 km)

• Two-wheelers (rental)

  details

  Some local vendors might offer scooter rentals, providing flexibility for exploring at your own pace.

  cost

  INR 300-500 per day

When is the best time to visit Silvassa?

• October to March: Pleasant and cool weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. April to June: Hot and humid, best avoided for extensive outdoor exploration. July to September: Monsoon season, lush greenery and waterfalls are at their best, but heavy rains can disrupt plans.

What should you pack for Silvassa?

• Light cotton clothing for comfort in the tropical climate.
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring gardens and temples.
• Umbrella or raincoat if visiting during monsoon season.
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for protection against the sun.
• Insect repellent, especially for evenings near gardens or water bodies.
• A camera to capture the scenic beauty and temple architecture.

What does a trip to Silvassa look like?