Dadra and Nagar Haveli are in India in the watershed of the Daman Ganga River, which
flows through the territory. The towns of Dadra and Silvassa both lie on the north
bank of the river. The Western Ghats range rises to the east, and the foothills of the
range occupy the eastern portion of the district. The territory is landlocked, although
the Arabian Sea coast lies just to the west in Gujarat.
The major spoken languages in the territory are Marathi, Hindi and Gujarati.
It was a Portuguese colony, dependent of Daman, from 1779 until 1954 when it was
absorbed by India. From 1954 to 1961, the territory was largely self-governing, the
administration being done by a body called the Varishta Panchayat of Free Dadra
and Nagar Haveli. It became a Union territory in 1961 and is currently represented in
the Parliament of India; the Lower House (Lok Sabha) and the Upper House
It is less than 500 sq. km. in size, covered with tall trees and winding rivers. The
hospitable, kind, unselfish native tribals have their own customs, dances and rituals
which are quite fascinating. The territory enjoys a very pleasant climate from
November to March, which is actually the best time for a visit. Temperatures during
summer are comfortable both even during the day due to its proximity to the sea.
PLACE TO VISIT
Tourist Spots to be seen in and around Silvassa town are Children's Park, Tribal
Museum, Ram Temple, Balaji Temple, Ayyappa Temple, Church, Van Dhara Garden,
Hirva Van Garden (both these gardens are near the river). Vanganga Garden is
located in village Dadra, this garden has facility of boating. There is Madhuban Dam
situated on the river Daman Ganga. Going southwards, approximately 18 KM from
Silvassa a small village called Bindrabin (in local dialect), some call it Vrundavan is
Temple of Lord Shiva.
HOW TO REACH
By plane - Mumbai is the nearest airport.
By car - Dadra and Nagar Haveli almost touches the NH8 between Mumbai and
Delhi. Silvassa is about 14 kms, from Bhilad and Vapi.
By train - The nearest railway stations are Bhilad & Vapi, about 14 & 18 kms
respectively from Silvassa, and are on the Western Railways.
