Saputara, often called Gujarat’s Cherrapunji, is nestled in the Dang district and becomes a major tourist attraction during the monsoon season. The scenic hill station draws large crowds as it comes alive with lush greenery and misty charm.
The annual Saputara Monsoon Festival adds to the excitement, not only attracting visitors but also boosting local employment. This year, the festival will be held from July 26 to August 17, 2025, offering a range of vibrant events and experiences for tourists to enjoy.
Promoting tribal culture and local traditions
The Saputara Monsoon Festival breathes life into the hill station with a vibrant mix of cultural and regional activities. Over the years, the festival has grown into a powerful platform to showcase tribal culture, local traditions, and the natural beauty of Saputara. Tourists not just from Gujarat, but from across India, flock to witness this colourful celebration.
Grand Folk Carnival Parade
This year, a spectacular Folk Carnival Parade will be the centre of attraction, featuring over 350 artists from 13 states including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Odisha. These artists will showcase their rich folk traditions with traditional costumes, props, and performances.
Adding to the excitement, new activities like Rain Dance and Nature Walks are also being introduced this year.
Cultural Highlights
Apart from the parade, the festival will also host over 80 artists from 13 states—including Gujarat, Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Manipur, Kerala, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Assam—who will present a variety of classical and folk performances that reflect India’s rich cultural diversity.
Popular Gujarati performers like Geetaben Rabari, Parth Oza, and Raag Mehta will take the stage, along with Kerala’s well-known Thekkinkadu Attam Musical Band.
Exciting Events for Tourists
Visitors can also look forward to Tableau Shows across Saputara, Sunday Cyclothon, Dahi Handi competition, Janmashtami celebrations, and a Mini Marathon on Independence Day, blending cultural celebration with patriotic spirit.
Festival’s Growing Popularity
The Saputara Monsoon Festival has seen a steady rise in tourist footfall over the years.
- In 2022, Saputara welcomed 8.16 lakh visitors
- In 2023, the number rose to 11.13 lakh
- In 2024, it further increased to 11.67 lakh
Similarly, for the Dang district as a whole:
- 10.40 lakh tourists visited in 2022
- 22.40 lakh in 2023
- And a remarkable 26.91 lakh in 2024