The Union Territory
of Daman and Diu is situated on the southern border
of the state of Gujarat, off the Saurashtra coast bordering
Junagadh district. Daman and Diu became a part of the
erstwhile Union Territory of Goa, Daman and Diu in 1961.
When Goa was conferred with statehood in 1987, Daman
and Diu became a separate Union Territory. The word
`Diu' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Dweep'. Diu
was one of the best Sea Ports and a Naval base between
the 14th and 16th Century. Daman is separated from Gujarat
by the Kolak river in the north and the Kalai river
in the south. On its west is the Arabian sea. The main
river Daman Ganga divides the town into two parts Moti
Daman in the south and Nani Daman in the north.
The twin city of Daman and Diu are
beautiful getaways with golden beaches, dense palm-groves
and historical monuments.
Both
the islands have typically maritime climate and pleasant
atmosphere which attracts the tourists throughout the
year. Summers of Daman are generally hot in comparison
to Diu. The climate of the place is highly affected
because of the sea and its gentle breezes which makes
it a cool and dry place.
In
Diu
Ahmedpur Mandvi : One of the most beautiful
beaches of India, the Ahmadpur Mandvi beach, commands
a magnificent view of the Fort. A lovely children's
garden shadowed by branching palms on the other side
of the road is another attraction.
Chakrathirth Beach: 4 Km. ride on
bicycle or auto rickshaws, away from Diu city, one
can visit Chakratirth Temple. There are newly constructed
tourist cottages, which provide all modern amenities
at very nominal rates.
Diu Fort: It is an impressive and
imposing structure situated on the coast of the island.
The Portuguese Governor Nuno-Da-Cunha built it in
1535. As the sea on three sides surrounds it, it commands
a magnificent view of the sea. The fourth side has
a canal around it.
Fudam Church: The ruins of the Fudam
Church still reminds one of its old glory. Fortum
dumar "Panikotha" as is called by the locals
is a mini Fort in the sea. Panikotha is a ship-like
concrete structure constructed on a rock surrounded
by sea on all sides. It commands a magnificent view
of the fort, the city of Diu Jetty, the new bridge
Ghoghala and Ahmadpur Mandvi. At high tide, boat ride
to Panikotha is a thrilling adventure in itself.
Gangeshwar: About 5 Km. from Diu
city, 5 Shiva lingas known as Gangeshwar can be seen
in the midst of rocks on the sea shore. At the entrance
there is 25m long carved figure of Nagaraja on the
rock. It is a beautiful sight to watch the tidal waves
on the lingas.
Jalandhar Beach: This beach is one
synonym for beauty piece and serenity. A natural aquarium
in front of the circuit house is another fabulous
attraction. There are lovely tourist cottages available
here.
Nagoa Beach: The golden beach, as
it is called, undulates on to the horizon while the
Arabian sea laps away at its edge as though imploring
the sands to let it find its own piece. Plenty of
branching palm trees popularly known Hoka-Palm trees
whisper and sway in the intoxicating sea breeze all
day long.
St. Paul Church: Built in 1691 a
pearl to oyster shaped island is St. Paul's Church
dedicated to our Lady of Immaculate Conception. The
main facade of the church with its Gothic, architecture
is so impressive and magnificent that it attracts
visitors at once.
In Daman
Bom Jesus Church and Our Lady of Rosary Chapel:
These impressive churches built by the Portuguese
are famous for their magnificent rosewood carvings.
Dominican Monastery: Also known
as the Convent of St. Domingos, this imposing building
in Moti Daman, is now in ruins.
Devka Beach : A sandy, shady &
rocky beach.
Gandhi Park : A Municipal park developed
for children
Hilsa Aquarium : The recently developed
Hilsa Aquarium has a good collection of exotic and
colouful fish.
Jampore Beach : The picturesque
shores of the Jampore beach in Moti Daman are situated
at the southernmost point of the district.
Kadaiya Lake Garden : Situated in
Nani Daman, this is a man made lake along with a beautiful
garden.
Hilsa Aquarium : The recently developed
Hilsa Aquarium has a good collection of exotic and
colouful fish.
Light House: Situated within the
Fort, the lighthouse commands a magnificent view.
Moti Daman Fort : The entire fort
area is very clean and tidy with well-planned roads
and tiny clean lanes, side cafes, mini gardens and
flowering trees.
Nani Daman Fort : Located on the
northern bank of Daman Ganga river, this fort has
three bastions and two gateways. The imposing church
of Our Lady of the Sea is the principal building within
the fort.
Pargola Garden : A monument raised
in memory of the Portuguese soldiers who fell during
the liberation uprising at Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
Satya Narayan Mandir, Satya Sagar Udyan :
With its colourful fountains and shrub skirted promenades
it offers an enchanting view.
Somnath Temple : With intricate
glasswork, it is worth visiting.
Large
number of people both from within the district as well
as outside gather here, take bath in the tank and worship
Lord Shiva during Gangaji fair which is held every year
in the village Dabhel, near the Somnatha Mahadev temple.
Other major Indian festivals such as Holi, Dushera,
Diwali, Id, Christmas, New Year day etc. are celebrated
with usual gaity and fervour.
