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Roads to Silvassa - Part 2

We found a good restaurant on our way to Khanwel. After satiating our hunger we hit the road to reach Dudhani. It is a lakeside reservoir formed near the Madhuban Dam. Along the way, we visited the Butterfly Garden. The butterflies had decided to take an afternoon siesta as the garden was void of any. With many, a tree spread across its length the garden was a pleasant respite from the blazing sun. Exploring the garden we found different flowers planted along the flower beds. Adjacent to the Butterfly garden is an Eco-Garden, it creates awareness about the wildlife present in the jungles of Silvassa. It was crafted to bring out the rustic, tribal feel of Silvassa. The road was curvy, it had its ups and downs and was largely smooth but it was no less than a roller coaster ride. Blind turns, hairpin turns and sheer slope of the terrain ensured that our ride was thrilling.

We reached Dudhani at five in the evening. Tourists come here from Vapi, Valsad, Mumbai to enjoy the breath taking view of Dudhani Lake. On the banks of DamanGanga River, Water Sports Complex is situated. One can enjoy boating and other water sports under the guidance of an instructor. We went near the jetty to find a flock of ducks paddling in the water. Dad and Sid where clicking a picture along with the flocks. The setting sun spread its vermilion hue on the canvas of the blue sky as we started our journey back to Silvassa and along the way visited the Swami Narayan temple famous for its intricate and elaborate architecture. The main sanctum had a peaceful vibe attached to it. It is one of the major tourist attraction in Silvassa, as devotees across Gujrat visit the temple to seek blessings.

The following day we visited Vasona Lion’ Safari. I was excited to see the majestic beast. The Safari is a part of vast Wildlife Sanctuary that aims to preserve the fast diminishing Asiatic Lions. A caged bus takes you around. The lioness was sitting near a tree, I was mesmerised by her grace and bowed down to her majesty. We then visited less daunting but equally graceful Deers. An open jeep ferried us around the sanctuary where we saw scores of Reindeer, deer and couple of Neelgais. A few Deer where found drinking the water down the valley. It was time for lunch for both deer and us. We quickly got in our car and went into the first decent restaurant we could spot.

Mom, Sid and I wanted to visit Daman and Dad took the car towards the town. It is a town in the union territory of Daman and Diu. The town is divided into two parts Nani Daman and Moti Daman with the Daman Ganga River flowing in between. St. Jerome Fort is a Portuguese fort situated in Nani Daman in the North. The area still has the reminiscence of Portuguese colonial past. The ruins of a Dominican monastery can be seen in Moti Daman Fort. Basilica of Bom Jesus Church one of the finest churches in India is known for its gilt altarpiece. The Chapel of Our Lady of Rosary is an architectural wonder that features intricate carvings. A day is not enough to explore the rich history and culture of Daman. So, We decided to sign off the tour with the setting sun by dipping our toes in the silver sands of Jampore beach.

I admire my Dad’ instinct to pick good picnic sites. It was an amazing getaway from the bustle of the city. We came back home with a lot of local delicacies for grandmother and bucketful of photos to cherish upon down the memory lane.

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