Daman and Diu are beautiful coastal regions of India on the west coast that are rich in Portuguese culture and natural beauty. These twin regions are saturated with sun-kissed beaches, old forts, spiritual temples, and culture, providing a great opportunity to unwind and getaway, while also exploring and indulging in the local culture. Whether you are a history buff, thrill-seeker, or happytraveller to spend all day on your own in a resort in Diu and exploring pristine shores, Daman and Diu are a guaranteed adventure for every tourist.
Learn about Historical Sites
Diu Fort
The Diu Fort is an example of colonial Portuguese architecture and was built in 1535 as part of a defensive strategy against invaders from the Mughal Empire. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides, the fort features large stone walls, bastions named after saints, a double moat, an old lighthouse, and the view of the sea is endless. Upon walking inside the fort, there are 400-year-old large, rusting cannons, numerous ruined chapels, and broad ramparts that make each turn an invitation for a story about each scene's violent battles.
St. Paul's Church
St. Paul's Church is an extraordinary example of Baroque architecture and is well-known for its carved wooden altar and beautiful facade. Built in 1601, it is among the finest representations of Portuguese church architecture in India. Step inside and enjoy the peaceful interior, stained glass windows, and surrounding gardens for a bit of quiet contemplation.
INS Khukri Memorial
Pay your respects at the INS Khukri Memorial to the warship sunk during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. The memorial sits on a bluff looking out onto the sea and has a model of the ship that sank as well as illustrations of the heroism exhibited by its crew, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in military history.
Gangeshwar Temple
Gangeshwar Temple provides visitors with breathtaking views of the coast and features five ancient Shivlingas embedded into the seaside rocks, washed by waves crashing above their surfaces. Legends say that the Pandavas prayed at this temple during their exile, which only enhances its unique setting along the coast with crashing waves providing a rhythmic soundscape.
Visit Beautiful Beaches
Nagoa Beach
The stunning Nagoa Beach is Diu's most popular beach with its beautiful golden sand and palm trees surrounding it. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or water sports like parasailing, windsurfing, and jet skiing, the cheering shacks serving fresh seafood and cold drinks are a pleasant way to enhance the day at this best beach.
Ghoghla Beach
Adventure-seeking Ghoghla Beach is the next beach for those who love to swim, jet ski, go on banana boat rides, and surf! It is also beautiful and has a long area of soft white sand that is perfect for games, walks, and sunset watching at the end of the day.
Jallandhar Beach
Jallandhar Beach is a perfect choice if you want more peace than the views at Nagoa Beach. It is an ideal, peaceful beach for walks, plus a shrine of Jallandhar, a mythological demon.
Explore Nature & Action
Naida Caves
The caves at Naida are a large web of caves that were formed long ago through years of quarried stone removed to build forts. When the filtered sunlight dances off the formations, there is little else like it, and it is possible to explore and share pictures of beauty that has existed long before any modern human experience.
Fudam Bird Sanctuary
This sanctuary is a celebrated location for nature lovers and walkers. Many migratory birds and resident birds can be spotted, including flamingos, great herons, and kingfishers. Walking trails meticulously maintained and observation decks make it very easy to enjoy some quiet bird watching.
Adventurous Water Sports
Beaches in Diu offer various water sports such as parasailing, jet-skiing, windsurfing, and paddle boarding, and most resorts will provide you with the necessary training and safety gear, accessible to both beginners and professionals.
Cultural Experiences
Diu Museum
The Diu Museum is located in a recently converted church displaying artefacts, religious icons, antiques, and stone inscriptions that showcase the deeply layered history of Diu Island. Each section showcases exhibit items on the contrasting two groups: the people of Portuguese origin, the Indians, and the indigenous tribes.
Local Festivals
Distinct and full of life, Diu and Daman's festivals harmonise music, dance, food, and colour, such as Janmashtami, Navratri, Christmas, Diwali, and the Festa De Diu. Festa De Diu is a beach festival with concerts and food fairs, making it a fun celebration.
Art & Souvenir Shopping
Shops in Diu and Daman offer shells, pottery, lacquerware, jewellery, embroidered textiles, and market stalls that reflect local culture. A great place to explore the bazaars for your perfect keepsake.
Excursions in the vicinity of Daman & Diu
Gir National Park
Gir National Park is a short drive from Diu, and if you want to see Asiatic lions in their natural environment and enjoy incredibly rich biodiversity, this is the place. You can go on guided safaris where you will see and learn about wildlife in the great Indo-Gangetic plain.
Somnath Temple
The Somnath Temple is also located close to Diu and is a very well-known pilgrimage site, comprising one of India's twelve Jyotirlingas. The majestic grounds will be a perfect place to seek spiritual reconnection.
Local food
Enjoy the spice and flavour of the island's variation of Gujarati and Portuguese cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, vindaloo, the well-known dessert of bebinca, and a mix of curries that pack a punch. You can enjoy delicious meals at beach shacks and other local restaurants where the food is all made with care and imported goods. Each forkful of food is a connection to the cosmopolitan heritage of Diu and Daman.
With a variety of opportunities in these islands, there is something for everyone. The unique combination of attractions and experiences is often historical, adventurous, natural, or cultural in nature, which makes Diu and Daman a must-see travel destination.
A Luxurious Stay: Praveg Beach Resort
Praveg Beach Resort is truly your place to escape the ordinary and feel pampered in Diu. From the air-conditioned, free Wi-Fi and flat-screened rooms and suites, with the most spectacular views of the sunset, to the pure vegetarian cuisine on offer at the Ocean Grill Restaurant (on-site), to the outdoor swimming pool and Clubhouse and Bar, Praveg Beach Resort teems with comfortable, luxurious options. And let's not forget that Nagoa Beach is just a few steps away! Likewise, Praveg Beach Resort can accommodate both leisure and business travellers, with a conference hall and beautiful green lawns. The unique and fully-equipped Praveg Beach Resort is destined to give any family, couple, or group of friends a refreshing, memorable getaway full of luxury, comforts, and more.
Conclusion
Diu and Daman are a delight of stunning sun-kissed beaches, historical forts, and mesmerizing cultural spirit waiting to reveal scenic and outdoor alternatives to you, everyday life, and ordinary retreats. A short trip to any sun-spot in Diu or Daman gives every traveller comforting memories and relaxing times on the beautiful, sparkling beaches, Portuguese era and colonial architecture, local festivities, organizations, and cuisine. Diu and Daman are two extraordinary coastal destinations for every type of traveller's memorable getaway full of centimetres.
