Diu is a small island town, famous for offering its guests with an unforgettable experience of Portuguese colonial era with its beautiful monuments and culinary delights, making the island a top choice of tourists for holidays.
Diu is a small island town, is a medieval fortified town in Diu district in the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, India. Diu district is the tenth least populated district of India. The town of Diu lies at the eastern end of Diu Island and is known for its fortress and old Portuguese cathedral. It is a fishing town which was earlier a Portuguese colony and is now guarded by beaches all around.
The town is popular among the tourists for its ample number of beaches, along with Gujarat's southern coast such as the Nagoa beach, Alcohol is legal in Diu but it also has a lot more to offer too. The Diu Fort, a primary imprint of the Portuguese on the area's heritage and architecture makes up a popular tourist attraction. Another famous attraction is the Vanakbara, a small fishing village whose charm has tints of colorful fishing boats and humming of day to day activity. This small island town is perfect add-on to a visit to Gujarat will complete your experience with interesting museums such as the Sea Shell Museum, temples and churches.
The Nagoa Beach in Diu is an ideal and a recommended place for tourists all over the world because of its pristine beauty and swaying palm trees. The place is well connected with the resorts, hence it making it easy for the travelers to relax and explore its beauty at the same time. The beach is surrounded by beautiful palm trees swaying in the cool breeze which creates an exotic environment for the travelers. The serene beauty of the beach due to its white sands and quiet blue water is worth experiencing and enjoying.
The Fort Diu which is located on the Western coast of Indian was built by Portuguese during their colonial rule and is now under the administration of Indian government. The fort- cum - castle, is situated on the southern tip of Gujarat and is at the mouth of the Gulf of Khambhat.
The enchanting fort offers a magnificent view of the sea, and a jetty constructed on the northwestern coast is still underused and was once used to trade with Cambay, Broach and Surat in Gujarat. Along with the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, Diu fort was listed as the seven wonders of Portugal but during their colonial rule. Diu fort forms a striking structure on the coast of the island.
The Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to the transformer of Hindu trinity, Lord Shiva, located amidst serenity and scenic beauty. This ancient Hindu Temple is believed to have been built by the Pandavas, this temple is famous for its five Shiva Lingas, i.e. rocks in the shape of Lord Shiva which are present in the middle of the sea.
One of the most attractive places in Diu is the Ghoghla beach. Situated in the north of Diu with not many people. With standard restaurants around the place along with water sports, this beach stands complete.
The Ghoghla beach is clean and safe it's a great spot for those who want to enjoy privacy and at the same time indulge in some water sports like parasailing, surfing and banana boat. The beach is well maintained and the best choice for a family holiday but sadly it's the least explored place.
The sunset point is a beautiful hillock present near the Chakritirath beach in Diu, offers its visitors a mesmerizing view of sunset from here. The hillock and the surrounding areas have been beautifully landscaped and illuminated. Chakratirth Beach is centrally located in the Diu Town.
The INS Khukri Memorial is the memorial site of an Indian Naval Ship which sank during the Indo-Pak War of 1971. The submarine was destroyed on 9th December 1971 when torpedo shots were fired on it, sinking the ship 40 nautical miles off the coast of Diu. At the time of sinking, there were 18 officers and 176 sailors on board. A memorial was set up to commemorate the brave war martyrs in Diu comprising of a scaled model of INS Khukri enclosed in a glass case.
Located in Diu, a Union Territory of India, St. Paul’s Church is the largest and the only functioning church in Diu. Famous all over the world for its stunning Jesuit architecture by Indian craftsmen, the church boasts of rich wood carvings, splendid facade, intriguing volutes and shell-like motifs. The Church is dedicated to Lady of Immaculate Conception, its construction was completed in 1601 AD. Sharing close similarity with the Basilica of Bom Jesus at Goa, the church mesmerizes with the exquisite work.
The Museum is a famous tourist spot of the town, the Diu Museum has been set up in the St. Thomas Church. The church was built in 1598 but was later converted into a museum. The building still bears the worn out and faded portraits and paintings left behind by the Portuguese. A beautiful garden path leads up to Diu Museum, with lovely fountains by its side. The evenings transform the place into a delightful sight with multicolored lights attractively brightening up the edifice.
The best time to visit Diu are during the Winter season (November to February) because of its ideal weather. Diu is a paradise in Winters. Better to avoid visiting Diu during the monsoon and summer months as the town experiences heavy rains between June to September and an extremely hot and humid climate during the summer months.
Diu has a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, which makes this town a must visit destination. From visiting the Fort Diu to St. Paul’s Church and tasting the culinary delights of the town, there is something for every traveler in this island town. So, pack your bags, plan your tour, and move onto a an unforgettable journey through the heart of Diu.
