Diu Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Best Time: July to March Read More

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"A mini-Goa"

Diu Tourism

Located near the port of Veraval, Diu is a small island which was earlier a Portuguese colony and is now guarded by beaches all around. Diu takes up most popularity given the ample number of beaches, along with Gujarat's southern coast such as the Nagoa beach, but has a lot more to offer too. Alcohol is legal in Diu

The Diu Fort, a primary imprint of the Portuguese on the area's heritage and architecture makes up a popular tourist attraction. Another interesting place is the Vanakbara, a small fishing village whose charm has tints of colourful fishing boats and humming of day to day activity. This perfect add-on to a visit to Gujarat will complete your experience with interesting museums such as the Sea Shell Museum, temples and churches.

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Portuguese Culture and Architecture

Diu was a Portuguese colony until taken over by India in 1961. Diu is separated from the mainland by a narrow channel and two tiny mainland enclaves. A lot of the Portuguese influence can be seen n the architecture and culture that the people follow. St. Paul's Church is an exemplary example of the beautiful Portuguese architecture. Another magnificent structure is the sea facing Diu Fort.

History of Diu

The region of Diu has been ruled by many dynasties like the Mauryans, Kshtrapans, Guptas, Maitrakas, etc. in the past. It began with the Pauranic period and ended with the colonial rule of the Portuguese. Diu remained under the colonial regime from 1535-1961 and was liberated alongside Goa and Daman on 19th December 1961. It was taken over by the Government of India and is till date governed from the capital Delhi as a Union Territory. Mythology believes that Diu was ruled by a ‘Daitya’ king named Jallandhar, who was beheaded by Lord Vishnu with his Sudarshan Chakra. According to the Gazette of Goa, the area of Daman and Diu was known as ‘Jallandhar Kshetra’ during Satyug.

Beaches in Diu

Diu is primarily known for its beautiful beaches, Magnificent forts and exotic liquor. The Beaches in Diu promise a beautiful get away from the monotonous routine lives. They are a sight to behold with soft sand, wondrous waves, canopied palms and the sound of church bells echoing into eternity. There are four beaches in Diu: Goptimata Beach, Nagoa Beach, Jallandhar Beach and Chakratirth Beach.

Restaurants and Local Food in Diu

Diu is a unique and composite blend of Gujarat's and Portuguese cuisine. This blend then, leaves few food domains that are not covered in the island's menu. On one hand you find traditional Gujrati food, its flavors and elements derived from the state nearby and on the other hand you have an influence of the past with Portugeese cuisine only complimented by the sea around and a dominance of exotic sea food.
While these are the defining cultures, one can find a few more international cuisines as well as typical Indian food in the restaurants. The island is also popular because of availability of alcohol, givent the adjacent dry state of Gujrat.
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Suggested Itinerary for Diu

Day 1 - Visit St. Paul’s Church, a Baroque style architecture. The interior is decorated with intricately carved woodwork, which is considered to be the one of the most elaborate among all Portuguese churches in India. Proceed to the Gangeshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. five 'Shivlings' amidst the rocks, lulled by the crystal clear sea water during high tide is the main attraction of this temple. Visit the Shell Museum, displaying a beautiful variety of shells- ranging from silver abalone to folding shells which were collected by a merchant navy, Captain Devjibhai Fulbaria, about 50 years ago. Retire for the day or go shopping.

Day 2 - You can keep an entire day for a visit to the main beaches in Diu- Nagoa, Jalandhar, Chakratirth, Gomtimata and Ghogla. Most of them have popular tourist attractions nearby. The Naida caves, near Jalandhar beach, were formed as a result of quarrying by the Portuguese. The Khukri Memorial, again near Jalandhar beach, is famous for an open amphitheatre and sunset shots. The cost of Nagao beach is renowned for recreational activities such as boating, parasailing, etc. An offshore lighthouse situated here is also very popular.


Day 3 - Visit Diu Fort or Fort Diu, built by the Portuguese during their colonial rule. An example of grand architecture, this fort on the cost of the island commands a magnificent view of the sea and skirts the sea water on three sides. From the fort, a mesmerising view of the Panikotha fort located in the sea off the cost opposite to Fort Diu can be seen in the evenings.

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Diu Photos

Diu, Daman and Diu
Diu Fort and Naida Caves
Ghogla Beach

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FAQs on Diu

What are the things to do in Diu?

The top things to do in Diu are Naida Caves, Nagoa Beach, Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple, Diu Fort, Ghoghla Beach, Sunset Point, Diu. You can see all the places to visit in Diu here

What are the places near Diu?

The top places near to Diu are Gir national park which is 50 km from Diu, Somnath which is located 66 km from Diu, Mumbai which is located 268 km from Diu, Udaipur which is located 510 km from Diu, Girnar which is located 100 km from Diu

What is the best way to reach Diu?

Diu is connected to other parts of Gujarat and the country with good road network. Diu does not have its own railway station and the nearest railhead is at Veraval which is 90 km from Diu. One can take a taxi after Veraval to reach Diu. Diu also has its own airport and daily flights connect Diu to Mumbai and to Porbandar.
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What is the local food in Diu?

Diu is a unique and composite blend of Gujarat's and Portuguese cuisine. This blend then, leaves few food domains that are not covered in the island's menu. On one hand you find traditional Gujrati food, its flavors and elements derived from the state nearby and on the other hand you have an influence of the past with Portugeese cuisine only complimented by the sea around and a dominance of exotic sea food.
While these are the defining cultures, one can find a few more international cuisines as well as typical Indian food in the restaurants. The island is also popular because of availability of alcohol, givent the adjacent dry state of Gujrat.
Read More

What is the best time to visit Diu?

The best months to plan a trip to Diu are November to February during the Winter season because of its ideal weather and a host of activities that are sure to keep you engaged. From thrilling watersports, calm beaches, historic architecture, abandoned forts and lip-smacking food; Diu is a paradise in Winters.
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Who should visit Diu?

Diu is for everyone who fancies Portuguese culture and architecture. If you are looking for a place to relax and take a break from your monotonous daily routine. The beaches here are a great escape and a great place to chill.

What is not so good about Diu?

The climate is extremely warm and humid. Not easily accessible.

What is famous about Diu?

Beautiful Portuguese architectural structures. Unlike rest of Gujarat, alcohol is legal in Diu. Cheap food and accommodation. Good Beaches.

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Popular Questions And Answers on Diu

Q. Complete list of places to visit in Daman

Suvidha Taxi taxi

4 years ago
There are many places to visit in Daman like Beach, Temple, Fort, Church & Garden Etc. 1. Jampore Beach 2. Jetty Graden 3. Bom Jesus Church 4. Dominican Monastery 5. St. Jerome Fort 6. Nani Da (Read More)man Fort 7. Moti Daman Fort 8. Samudra Narayan 9. Devka Beach 10. Church of Our Lady of Sea You can spent 2-3 days to visit full Daman.
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Q. What is there for tourrist

Holidify

5 years ago
There are plenty of thing to explore in Diu which is also known as mini Goa! You can check all the sightseeing options here- http://www.holidify.com/places/diu/
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Diu Reviews

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Vikas Loomba

5 years ago
It's a wonderful place... Neat and clean...cool place to relax and enjoy with friends and family ... Fantastic island......three famous beaches to enjoy and relax

Pranjali Kureel

5 years ago
I found Diu to be a nice place for escaping the pollution and hustle bustle of cities. With its Portuguese architecture and beaches, its name 'mini Goa' is completely justified. Even though the clima (Read More)te is quite hot and humid, the beautiful beaches and captivating sunset make it worth it. One mistake we did was that we took a sight-seeing tour package. I would recommend that you spend more time at places like Diu Fort, Summer House, Jallandhar and Goghla beach etc. which are supposed to be enjoyed, as our guide rushed us through these beautiful attractions and left us at Nagoa beach for over 3-4 hours which I found overrated, overcrowded and dirty.
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