Ahmedabad- Saputara, the only hill station in Gujarat, has come alive with the beauty of the rainy season, attracting a large number of visitors from within the state and abroad. To further boost tourism, the state government has organized the Saputara Megh Malhar Festival 2024, which will commence on July 29 and last for a month. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel will inaugurate this grand event.

Historical and Religious Significance

Saputara, located in the Dang district of South Gujarat, is not just a popular hill station but also a significant religious site. The area is home to Shabari Dham, a place of great devotion linked to Lord Shri Ram. According to local belief, Shabari Dham is where Lord Rama ate berries offered by Mother Shabari. The grand temple at Shabari Dham, adorned with paintings and statues depicting the Ram-Shabari episode from the Ramayana, is a major attraction for tourists and devotees.

Development of Shabari Dham

The state government is actively developing pilgrimage centers of mythological and historical importance. Through the Gujarat Pavitra Yatradham Vikas Board (GPYVB), development work worth approximately Rs 10 crore has been initiated at Shabari Dham. Since December 2018, various facilities have been established for devotees and tourists, with more planned for the future.

Completion of the First Phase

According to GPYVB Secretary R.R. Rawal, the first phase of the Shabari Dham development project has been completed. This phase included the construction of a grand Yatri Niwas and Admin Block at a cost of about Rs 4.89 crore. The Yatri Niwas provides amenities such as a Bhojan Shala, Dining Hall, Store Room, Wash Area, Toilets, Executive Rooms, Special Rooms, Dormitories, Living Rooms, and a Kitchen Area. The Admin Block includes a Hall, Dining with Kitchen, Meeting Rooms, Bedrooms, Sant Niwas, and essential facilities like toilets and drinking water.

Plans for the Second Phase

In the second phase, additional facilities worth Rs 5.74 crore will be developed at Shabari Dham. These include a new parking area, renovation of the Hanumanji temple, installation of paver blocks, a retaining wall, a Sabha Mandap shed, toilets, a canteen, a ramp, a water tank, renovation of existing toilets, gardening and landscaping, painting of stairs, signages, solar site poles, a solar system, and electrification. These enhancements aim to significantly improve the experience for travellers and devotees.

As the Saputara Megh Malhar Festival 2024 approaches, the region is set to become a focal point for nature and environment lovers, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.