Daman & Diu Sightseeing, Quick Facts, History, Packages, Tours & Excursions

Daman & Diu, the second smallest Union Territory of India, is located on the west coast. Daman and Diu are two separate areas, geographically located within the state of Gujarat. Daman is close to the town of Vapi in southern Gujarat, while Diu is near Junagarh in the Saurashtra Peninsula of Gujarat. Daman & Diu were part of the Portuguese territories in India, and joined the Indian Union in 1961. After that Goa, Daman & Diu were part of a single Union Territory till 1987 when Goa became a separate state. Daman is the administrative headquarters of Daman & Diu.

Daman is divided by the Damanganga River into two parts. It is known for its twin forts the Moti Daman and the Nani Daman. Moti Daman has wide streets, a 17th-century church the Se Cathedral and a lighthouse. Nani Daman has the Church of Our Lady of Rosary and a fishing village nearby. Near the river is an 18th-century Jain Temple with murals. In Dabhel village is the important Somnath Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devka Beach and Jampore beach are also tourist spots.

Diu is a tiny island in the Arabian Sea, near the port of Veraval, connected by two bridges to the mainland. Chassi is its main river. To the east of the town of Diu is the Diu Fort, right on the coast. The Panikotha (Water House) is a smaller fortress and accessible by boat. Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to Shiva. The churches of St. Paul and St. Francis of Assisi are located at the Jallandhar Beach. The Nagoa Beach is a fine beach and so named because of its horseshoe shape. Diu is also noted for its birdlife including blue rock pigeon, doves and parrots. During the cooler months from August till February many migratory birds also visit the island.