Diu
About Diu
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.
Things to Do
Naida Caves
Located outside the city wall of the Diu Fort, the Naida Caves are a group of interlinked caves constructed by the Portuguese. The caves are only a short distance away from the Diu town and they feature a big network of tunnels with square hewn steps that remain completely unexplored. Naida Caves is one of the most underrated tourist attractions of Diu but it is as wholesome for an explorer or a history buff as for a photographer. Naida Caves got their shape eventually after the Portuguese ruled over Diu and broke down sections of a huge rock formation that they used for construction. Interestingly, these caves were formed due to geological irregularities and natural processes over time. Naida Caves is slowly being recognized as one of the most magnificent attractions since prehistoric times. The caves also have a natural opening that lets in sunlight, making it photogenic. During the 20th century, when the Portuguese were not ready to leave Diu, Operation Vijay was launched to seize control by the Indian Army and several soldiers were stationed at the Naida Caves during that time.
Nagoa Beach
Famous for its pristine beauty and swaying palm trees, Nagoa Beach in Diu is an ideal and a recommended place for tourists all over the world. The place is well connected with the resorts, hence it making it easy for the travellers 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 travellers to laze around. The serene beauty of the beach due to its white sands and quiet blue water is worth experiencing and enjoying.The beach is located in the Nagoa hamlet of Bucharwada village and serves as an attraction for its Hoka trees which produces a unique kind of fruit. It is very much known for its water sports along with camel and pony riding. Sunbathing can turn out to be the most intoxicating experience at the Nagoa Beach. Shops and restaurants act as refreshments which are one of its kinds. The beach extends over an area of 2 km from one end to the other. A walk along the shore mixed with witnessing the sunrise and sunset is a great way to relax one’s mind.
Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple
Situated amidst serenity and scenic beauty, the Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to the transformer of Hindu trinity, Lord Shiva. This ancient Hindu Temple is located 3 km away from Diu in the Fudam Village of Gujarat. 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. Only the tip of these rocks can be seen whenever there is a high tide because the sea water submerges them.Gangeshwar refers to Lord Shiva who is considered to be the Lord of River Ganga since it descended to earth starting from the tresses of Lord Shiva who is also the presiding deity of the Gangeshwar Mahadev Mandir.
Diu Fort
Fort Diu, 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 known as ‘Praça de Diu’ in Portuguese, is situated on the southern tip of Gujarat and is at the mouth of the Gulf of Khambhat. The Fort of Diu is a colossal structure that occupies a prominent place on the tourist’s list. The enchanting fort commands 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. The lighthouse that one can climb leads to the highest point on the island and provides a spectacular view of the surrounding. Cannonballs litter the entire place, and the parapet has a fantastic array of cannons.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. This new achievement further highlighted the importance of the fort and put it on the world tourism map. Diu fort forms a striking structure on the coast of the island.
Sunset Point
A beautiful hillock located 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 and contiguous to the Diu Town. Visitors also go to the Khodidhar beach which is another sunset viewpoint.
Paul Church
Situated in Diu, a Union Territory of India, St. Paul’s Church is the largest and the only functioning church in Diu. Renowned 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.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. Sitting in utmost silence in the heavenly beautiful church lit up by lights is surely a soul-soothing experience.
Panikota Fort
A 16th-century ruin from the Portuguese era, the Panikota Fort was initially a Diu Jail. Formerly known as Fortim-do-Mar, this fort is a historic structure right in the middle of the seas. Hence, reaching this attraction would need a motorboat or a canoe.Situated opposite to the Diu Fort, this white construction offers an island-like view, given its location. Besides, the fort also sites a nearby chapel and a lighthouse. There are efficient ferry services to the fort as well.
Zampa Gateway
The Zampa Gateway is a major landmark of Diu hemming in the Northern part of the city. The bright red painted gateway wall is carved with dedicated angels, lions and a priest. An artificial waterfall adds to its beauty. The Zampa Gateway is an important historical place in Diu.
Shell Museum
One of the few shell museums in the world, the Sea Shell Museum is located 6km from Diu on the Nagoa road. It houses collections of Captain Fulbari, a sailor, who during his voyages collected many unique, pretty and amazing shells. He wanted to showcase his unique collection and make people understand the difference between different type of seashells. A magnifying glass is provided to the tourists and is installed near the displays to look closely at the multitude of shells at the Sea Shell Museum. There are also a lot of books talking about the history of the sea shells. Being the first shell museum of Asia, it sees visitors from all over the world.
Diu Museum
A famous tourist spot of the town, the Diu Museum has been set up in the St. Thomas Church. The church had been 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 multicoloured lights attractively brightening up the edifice.
What's in the Museum?
The Diu Museum houses numerous stone inscriptions of ancient rulers, antique statues, multi-coloured fountains, wood carvings and idols showcasing the rich past of the region.
It also features 400 year old wooden and marble statues of St. Thomas and St. Benedict which is further beautified by the special lighting outside the building. The St. Thomas Church lies on an elevated platform within the Diu Fort. It was created by the Portuguese in 1598, reflecting a Gothic style architecture. After the conversion of the building to the museum, the church does not organise prayer services anymore, although an annual mass is held on All Saint’s Day on 1st November.
INS Khukri Memorial
INS Khukri Memorial is the memorial site of an Indian Naval Ship that 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 martyrs in Diu comprising of a scaled model of INS Khukri enclossed in a glass case.The commanding officer on board INS Khukri was Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla, who was given the option of saving himself and his crew by surrendering in front of the invaders. However, he chose to sink with the ship rather than surrendering to the enemies. He was posthumously awarded the Mahavir Chakra and INS Khurki Memorial was built to remind people of such valiant soldiers.
