Daman, Diu, Silvassa

Daman and Diu are seaside towns on either side of the Gulf of Khambat. Silvassa is located at the foothills of the Western Ghats.

They are not really part of the state of Gujarat but deserve mention here for not only their geographical proximity to Gujarat but also for their popularity as dearly beloved places for many Gujaratis to holiday in and unwind.

For over 450 years, the coastal enclaves of Daman and Diu on the Arabian Sea coast, along with Goa and Dadra and Nagar Haveli – all far-flung – were ruled by the Portuguese. Today, Goa is a state while Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli are a new single Union Territory (effective January 26, 2020).

Daman

Thanks to the sea and three rivers, tiny Daman has a large waterfront, with two beaches – Devka and Jampore.

Moti Daman (Big Daman) is the erstwhile Portuguese township with an old fort replete with ancient structures. The loveliest of these are the two churches of Bom Jesus and Our Lady of Rosario, both built in the 17th century.

A walk through the old town will reveal colonial homes, churches, and official buildings.

In Nani Daman (Little Daman), visit the Damao Pequino Jetty and the St Jerome Fort, which was built by the Portuguese in 1627 to keep the Mughals at bay.

Diu

Lying off the coast of the Kathiawar Peninsula in the Arabian Sea, Diu is a small and peaceful island with abundant remnants of its Portuguese connection and history.

Diu’s entire 21 km coastline is a beach, with some beautiful beaches to see.

The imposing 16th-century Portuguese Fort of Diu has a magnificent view out into the sea. The massive, well-preserved Fort is quite remarkable to explore, with its double moat, cannonballs, and a fabulous array of cannons on its ramparts.

Part of the Fort also serves as the island’s jail. Lit up at night, the Fort offers spectacular views of the stone fortress of Panikotha in the sea.

In the old quarter of Diu, Nagar Seth’s Haveli is one of the finest old houses. Nearby is the Church of St Francis of Assisi.

The Gothic St Thomas’ Church, which also serves as a museum, is another remarkable edifice.

Founded by Jesuits in the 17th century, Diu’s St Paul’s Church was completed in 1610. The beautiful Church has an elaborate neoclassical façade and is considered one of the finest Portuguese churches in India.

Explore the island’s local bazaars to shop and experience street life in Diu.

Silvassa

Silvassa, the headquarters of the Dadra and Nagar Haveli district, although gradually growing into an industrial hub, attracts tourists with its still charming environs.

Our Lady of Piety Church, the Lion Safari Park, Vanganaga Lake and Island Garden, Pipariya Van, and Hirwa Van Gardens are Silvassa’s highlights.