Daman & Diu
Daman & Diu which flourished under the Portuguese prior Indian Independence, now declared as a Union territory with its effulgent and glossy hangouts is now getting famed as a popular tourist hotspot. Lovely painted country-side settings, dense woods, welcoming waters, Portuguese style ancient buildings, extraordinary tribal culture and yummy sea food allures travelers to spend a grand holiday with least botheration about fast paced life.
Diu bestowed with salubrious climate, it has huge influx of travelers all through the year. The sun kissed sandy beaches lined by Hoka trees and gothic constructions adds to the stimulating factors of this alluring paradise. It was a prime naval and trade base too.
This precious god’s gift with a charming brew of nature’s wonders and marvels the land of Daman has a vast coastline with pure crystal clear beaches. Damanganga River forms the lifeline which splits Daman into two parts as Nani Daman and Moti Daman. Moti Daman houses remains of the administrative offices, dwelling abodes and churches of the Portuguese era. But some structures are intact. Nani Daman is more advanced of the two that has eat-outs, dining and lodging facilities to accommodate the visitors.
PLACES TO VISIT
DIU
Jallandhar Beach : This is a beach which has some legendary story attached to it. There is a temple dedicated to Goddess Chandrika.
Goghala Beach : This beach is greatly loved by the visitors for its placid and shallow waters which is apt for swimming. Parasailing and surfing are the main activities.
Diu fort : If you are a fan of history and love gazing at age old structures then the Diu fort will definitely attract you. The 15th century fort with mighty walls and creative art provides commanding views of the sea. There is a light house too.
Gangeshwar temple : This is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva which was visited and prayed by the Pandavas during their period of banishment. The temple is placed on a natural setting on the rocks. It is an ideal place to sit and meditate for solitude seekers.
Sea Shell museum : It has a splendid collection of over 3000 varieties of sea shells with different shapes, colours and sizes.
St. Paul’s church : It is the only church where people gather to offer prayers to the Lord. The church is decorated brilliantly with big glass doors and wood work.
St. Thomas Church : This church is now converted to a museum .
DAMAN
Jampore Beach : It is a pleasant beach which is safe for playing and swimming. Horse riding is a famous activity here.
Devka beach : This beach has under water rocks and one have to be very careful while playing here. It is close to Nani Daman.
Daman hosts lot of churches with brilliant art, carvings and wood works. Chapel of Lady of Rosary, Church of our Lady of remedies and Bom Jesus church are the popular religious spots.
Daman Ganga tourist complex and Vaibhav water parks are the prominent recreational centers.
HOW TO REACH
By Road : NH 8 which passes though Daman connects Mumbai, Baroda and Ahmedabad.
By Train : Vapi about 12 kms far has railway station.
By Air : Mumbai airport is about 200 kms away.