Daman, a quaint little settlement, spread over an area of 72 sq. km, is a picturesque port town, and a popular get-away with city dwellers. Situated on the west coast, hugged by the Arabian Sea and swaying casuarinas, Daman has been the home away from home for the Portuguese, till its liberation in 1961. Diu, which makes the other half of the Union Territory of Daman and Diu, is a tiny island measuring less than 40 sq. km, off the west coast near Saurashtra. Diu is perhaps the most exotic destination on the west coast of India. |
| SHOPPING: The covered Portuguese market is a good place to pick up imported items; while the open-air farmer's market has a delightful collection of fresh flowers and spices. CLIMATE: Daman and Diu lie on the edge of the southern borders of Gujarat, which is situated in western India. The northern side of the isolated island, Diu, facing Gujarat, is a tidal marsh and saltpans, while the southern coast alternates between limestone cliffs, rocky coves and sandy beaches. This wind beaten and somewhat arid island is filled with quarries built by the Portuguese rulers. The rocky and sandy interior reaches a maximum altitude of 29 meters above sea level, and palms and coconut trees strew this island. It is about 786 km from Daman and is bound by Chasi River on the north and the Arabian Sea on the other three sides. Its total area is about 33 sq. km. and is connected to the mainland by two bridges. Daman is an underdeveloped town, with a tropical flavor and its beaches are very welcoming. It was earlier called by the name of Damao and is bound by the Kolak River on the north. The northern part is called Little Daman or Nani Daman and is filled with restaurants while the southern part is called Moti Daman or Big Daman and is known for its ancient architecture. Both the islands enjoy typically maritime climate. The islands are always welcoming to tourists and throughout the year one can enjoy a pleasant atmosphere. |
Beach - Daman and Diu
The Twin Union - Daman and Diu
| EXCURSION: The 1000-feet-high hill resort of Saputara near Daman is quite famous. The name means the Abode of Serpents and one can see a holy serpent image on the banks of the river Sarpaganga. To visit Mahal Bardipara Forest Wildlife Sanctuary (60 km) and the Gira Waterfalls (52 km) Saputara is a popular base. Fudam, near Diu town, has a big church dedicated to Our Lady of Remedies. At the western frontiers of the island, Vanakbara has a Church to Our Lady of Mercy, a fort, a lighthouse, and a fishing fleet. |
Attractions and Places to Visit in Daman and Diu
In Daman, one can visit the Fort of St. Jerome at Nani Daman, where there is a Jain temple as well. The 17th-century-old Cathedral and the Church of Lady of Rosary in Moti Daman are also worth a visit, and one can see the exquisite Portuguese carvings on the walls of these churches. Built in ancient Gothic style, these are a feast for the eyes. The stately Light House, the amusement park and the Gandhi Park at Daman jetty are also places of interest. Among the beaches, Devka beach is the most famous. Others include the Jampore beach, which is of interest to the swimmers and is very near the Gujarat border. The lake garden of Satya Nagar Udyan is famous for its fountains and promenades.
In Diu, the Zampa Gateway is of particular interest. It has carvings of lions, angels and a priest and has a chapel inside with an inscription dating back to 1702. The artificial Zampa waterfall is also attractive. St. Paul's Church is the only active church till date. Nearby is the old St. Thomas's Church that has now been taken over by the authorities and converted into the Diu Museum. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi has been converted to a hospital. The Marwar memorial commemorates the victory over the Portuguese. The massive fort built in 1541 is now weathered and weak. It is of major tourist interest. Other places include Jallandhar and Gangeshwar temple. The Nagoa beach is the most famous in Diu. Gomptimata, Chakratirth and the beautiful Sunset Point are the other famous beaches. The Jama Masjid is also famous.
How to Reach Daman and Diu
Daman is provided with an airport and is connected to Baroda and Mumbai. Only traveler's cheques are exchangeable. The main railhead is Vapi, which is 10 km away. Vapi is about 170 km from Mumbai and 90 km from Surat. For Diu, there are regular air services of Gujarat State Airlines that fly to Mumbai. The nearest railhead is Delwada, 8 km from Diu. It is located between Una and Ghoghla.