Ahwa have you even heard of this place? Yes its in India and that too in the southeastern part of Gujarat. The beautiful Western Ghats have three talukas: Ahwa, Waghai, and Subir. Now you must be wondering why on earth I want to take you to Ahwa. Well, the region is filled with greenery and hilly terrain and is a pass to Saputara and Nasik. Well, we never stop by and stay on the way, but one should definitely spend some time here too.
It’s actually a green tribal belt, and it’s fostered in the Dangs district. It’s high at an altitude of 1800 feet and is a central hub. It’s famous for its rich culture, nature’s beautiful diversity, and tribe. It has a historic significance since 1842. Ahwa has about 93.8% tribal population. They are hereditary of kings from ancient times. Gadhavi, Pimpri, Amala-Linga, Vasurana, and Daher. They were recognised during the British times. It’s one of the least populated districts in Gujarat.
Ahwa is 170 years old and was selected as the headquarters of the Dangs by James Outram. It was a military base for the Marathas back in the 16th century. When you first enter the district from your state, you will have to come to Valsad, Vapi, Navsari, or Surat. Either by train, bus, or your car. It’s a beautiful drive up for 2-3 hours.
You will pass by green pastures, fields, water bodies, and dams. Before you reach, dang, you can’t miss having the lovely Balaji hot chips directly from the factory outlet. Also, some handmade items in the ancient machines, you will get to taste some sugarcane and pineapple juices. If you’re driving up, then you will also come across huge nurseries for flowers and plants that you can pick to take back home.
Bamboo is available in this region, and hence locals have tried to build their livelihood along it. The Kotwalia community here has practised centuries-old weaving techniques. These artisans transform bamboo into some great contemporary products. They also make some great Warli paintings and art. These are quite sustainable. They make furniture, mats, toys, decor, which are functional, lampshades, baskets, and animals.
They create some great traditional and modern designs. They are also from the PVTG group thats particularly vulnerable tribal group. You will have to look for Ambapada, and also close to Ukai Dam in Tapi District. There is also the Indibans bamboo craft workshop and training center here you can pick some high-quality bamboo furniture, lamps and bottles. Also visit Baansuli, a social enterprise that empowers local tribal women in Dang and pick some great contemporary handcrafted bamboo jewellery. You will also get to stay in some bamboo houses in resorts and MTDC tourism stays
Ahwa- Serene, green and wild !
While you drive up, you will come across several signboards of wildlife. So it’s better not to hop out of your car and stroll into the forest area alone. Vansda National Park has existed since 1979. It falls in the Dang district. You will see a huge board and a gate entry to it. It is rich in bamboo groves and deciduous forests. It has a rich biodiversity. Untouched for several years, it was a private forest that was owned by the Maharaja of Vansda.
Wildlife includes 200 bird species that you can see with the naked eye. Leopards, barking deer, giant squirrel, and hyenas, too. Post monsoon, you shall see the entire region of Dang green. It’s a great space for Photographers, nature lovers, and trek lovers will be delighted. Many go on cycle, bike, and car tours to enjoy the greens. You can get easy entry through permits at Waghai. People who are visiting Saputara or Nasik visit here.
When you finally reach Ahwa, you will see a welcoming gate that says “Welcome to the Dangs”. The people of Dang have a deep symbiotic relationship with their forest and environment. They tend to have a blend of traditional practises, artistic expression and resilience towards their daily routine and lifestyle. They worship nature and its elements, trees and animals ( Wagh-dev- tiger as god).
The Dangis do live in poverty, but live a vibrant, colourful, and joyous lifestyle. They speak Dangi that a dialect of the Bhil Language. It’s influenced by Marathi, Gujarati, and Khandeshi. They have their unique music and dance too.
You can’t miss the Dang Darbar Festival that happens in March. It’s a significant tribal festival and is held annually in the Ahwa district. You should also try some nutrient-rich and authentic thali that includes Ragi/ Nagli millets and organic veggies. Roti/ Chokha na rotla, Urat dal, Dudhi Mutia, green sabjhis and not to miss the spicy chutneys and papads. They serve it in a banana leaf or on plates. You will come across several local dhabas and village dhabas serving it.
Places to explore in Ahwa !
You will pass the region of Dangs on your way to hit for a short trip to Saputara hill station. You can visit the Gira waterfalls, Vansda National Park, Waghai Botanical Garden, Sunset Point, Anjani Caves, Roopgadh fort, Mahal forest rest house, Saputara lake, Step garden, Girmal, Echo point, Don hill station, Shivghat, Lake garden, Mayadevi temple, Shabari dam, and Pandava caves. A new place to explore and live! Go meet the Dangs and come back with a tribal experience. One should also visit the amazing school called EMRS ( Eklavya Model Residential School) for tribal children.
