Gandhinagar: Gujarat’s only hill station, Saputara, is all set to host the much-awaited Saputara Monsoon Festival 2025 from July 26 to August 17, turning the scenic town in Dang district into a vibrant hub of culture, music, art, and eco-tourism. Organized by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL), the festival is a unique initiative that blends tribal traditions, local economy, and national unity under the theme of “Ek Bharat Shreshth Bharat.”
A Vision Transformed into a National Attraction
What began under the visionary leadership of then-Chief Minister and now Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Saputara Monsoon Festival has evolved into a globally recognized tourism event. With each passing year, it has not only grown in scale but also in impact, promoting tribal arts, eco-tourism, and regional economies.
In 2024, Saputara alone saw a record-breaking 26.91 lakh visitors, a threefold increase since 2022 — a testament to its growing popularity and enhanced infrastructure.
2025 Highlights: Grand Folk Carnival Parade and Classical Showcase
For the first time ever, the festival will feature a Grand Folk Carnival Parade, bringing together over 350 artists from 13 states including Gujarat, Punjab, West Bengal, Karnataka, and Odisha. These artists will perform folk dances and traditional acts with regional props, turning the streets of Saputara into a celebration of India’s diversity.
In addition, the ‘Grand Classical and Folk Performance’ segment will showcase over 80 classical and folk artists from across India, offering an enriching cultural experience. The performance roster includes artists from Manipur, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi, among others.
Star Performers and Daily Cultural Showcases
Top regional artists such as Geetaben Rabari, Parth Oza, and Raag Mehta will headline cultural evenings. Kerala’s renowned Thekkinkadu Attam Musical Band is also set to mesmerize audiences.
Daily performances by local Dang artists will be held at Saputara Main Circle, Governor Hill, and Saputara Lake Boat Club. These programs highlight tribal traditions, music, and dance, and provide direct employment and visibility to local talent.
More Than Entertainment: A Boost to Economy and Livelihoods
Beyond tourism, the festival is a catalyst for economic development in Dang. From small businesses and tribal artisans to hotels and transport services, the entire local ecosystem benefits from the influx of visitors. Local art forms like Warli painting, tribal tattoos, and traditional crafts will be displayed and sold through stalls, workshops, and exhibitions.
Events such as Tribal Food Festivals, Sunday Cyclothons, Janmashtami celebrations, Dahi Handi contests, and a Mini Marathon on Independence Day will amplify the festive spirit while creating platforms for local entrepreneurs.
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Dang’s Transformation: From Remote to Remarkable
Known as Gujarat’s “Cherrapunji,” Dang district has undergone a remarkable transformation. Tourist numbers have surged due to focused development by the Gujarat government:
Saputara Tourist Stats:
- 2022: 8.16 lakh
- 2023: 11.13 lakh
- 2024: 11.67 lakh
- Dang District Tourist Stats:
- 2022: 10.40 lakh
- 2023: 22.40 lakh
- 2024: 26.91 lakh
The rise is attributed to improved infrastructure, new tourism initiatives, and the promotion of tribal culture through flagship programs. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to inclusive development, tourism-driven growth, and employment creation in tribal areas.
