Daman and Diu are twin islands in Arabian Sea adjacent to Gujrat. These islands are the perfect weekend getaway destination. Daman and Diu offers a blend of Portuguese  colonial history, secluded sandy beaches and  unequaled serenity .The combination  of the tranquility, Portuguese history and of  beautiful beaches  is enchanting. If you want to get away from the hustle and  bustle of the stressful city life then head straight to Daman and Diu. Called ‘Ilhe de Calma’ in Portuguese or Island of Calm, Diu lives up to its name.

In Daman and Diu you will find, many beautiful churches influenced by Portuguese architecture, impregnable forts, the abundant natural beauty, coconut groves, white sandy beaches and widespread equanimity. The close proximity to the sea makes it a seafood lover’s paradise. Apart from that, you can also enjoy water sports and adventure sports here.  Daman and Diu tourist places are rejuvenating and refreshing. The local government has taken a number of steps to develop Daman and Diu tourism, which includes restoration of old churches and forts and development of infrastructure.

Popular Places to visit in Daman and Diu:

Diu Fort

This small yet beautiful fort was built in 1535 by the Portuguese. With its strong walls and double moat, this fort offers stunning views of the sea. Inside the fort, you can see a range of cannons and cannon balls left by the Portuguese, several cathedrals and engraved tombstone fragments. There is a lighthouse inside the fort, which offers breathtaking views of Diu and the sea. A part of the fort is also used as a jail. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Daman and Diu.

Fortress of Panikota

The Fortress of Panikota is also known as Fortim-do-Mar. One of the popular places to visit in Daman and Diu, it is an iconic symbol for the island. This small fort is built at the mouth of the creek, surrounded by water at all sides. It is located between Diu and Ghoghla village. You can visit the fort by the jetty, canoe or motor boats. There is also a lighthouse and church within the fort. It was used by the Portuguese as a jail. The views of the fort are stunning.

 Naida Caves

The Naida Caves are one of a kind attraction you will find in Diu. A hidden gem, the Naida Caves lie just outside the Diu Fort.  These hollow caves consist of a nexus of tunnels and square hewn steps. This structure was formed when the Portuguese hacked off building materials from this place for building Diu Fort. A secluded place, you will find the sunlight streaming in through the gaps in the roof. The trees and the chirping of the birds make it more enchanting.

Daman and Diu Beaches

Being twin islands there are several beaches dotting the islands. Here are some of the popular Daman and Diu beaches:

Goghla Beach

Ghoghla Beach is the biggest beach in Diu. This beach with its golden shores offers serenity and tranquility. A not so crowded beach, here you can enjoy the waves and the enthralling views of the sea. Here you can also enjoy water sports. Occasionally you can spot dolphins here.

Nagoa Beach

Nagoa Beach is a crescent-shaped beach and is one of the popular places to visit in Daman and Diu. The crystal clear and shallow water of the beach is inviting. Here also you can enjoy a number of water sports.  Another specialty of this breach is that you can spot ‘hoka’ here a special kind of palm.

Jampore Beach

Located near Moti Daman,  Jampore beach offers vast stretches of sandy beach and shallow water. This beach is safe for swimming as it is free of undercurrents and other dangers. The calm water and the serene surroundings are mesmerizing. You can also enjoy camel and horse rides here.

Some other popular Daman and Diu beaches are Chakratirth Beach, Gomtimata Beach, Jallandhar Beach and Devka Beach.

When to Visit

Daman and Diu are one of those rare places where you can experience a pleasant climate throughout the year.  The best time to visit is from October to following May.

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest major airport is, Mumbai. Diu airport is only a few km from Nagoa Beach and is well connected with Mumbai.

By Rail: The nearby major railway stations are Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Whereas the nearest railway station is Vapi which is 10 km away.

By Road: Daman and Diu are well connected by Highways to Ahmedabad 367 km away, Mumbai 197 km away and  Vadodara 300 km away.

The untouched natural surroundings, historical charm, and the serenity make the Daman and Diu irresistible. So pack your bags for Daman and Diu and escape the humdrum city life.