Beach holidays in India are often synonymous with places like Goa, Kerala, and Vizag. But, nestled in the lap of Portuguese history, sits one of the most remarkable beach destinations of India whose beauty is a treat for the eyes as well as for the senses. Diu is located on a small island which can be reached via a bridge that is connected to Gujarat’s southern coast. The small island of Diu has been known for its tranquility. Hence, it has been gaining immense popularity among writers and artists, who appreciate and enjoy the silence. However, it isn’t only its nerve-soothing beauty that makes Diu a preferred beach destination by many. There are a plethora of exciting things to do, such as water sports, cave exploration, and birdwatching, that make Diu a preferred choice among travelers. In fact, the water sports in Diu offer some of the most adventurous experiences like parasailing, banana boat rides, and water zorbing, making Diu an ideal destination for adrenaline junkies.
The best time to plan a visit to Diu is between November and February. During these months, the weather is ideal for a range of activities that keep the tourists engaged throughout. Adventurous water sports, cave-hoping, and calmer beaches—all of this can be thoroughly enjoyed in Diu only during the winter season.
To make the most of your visit, here’s a list of exciting things that you can enjoy in Diu.
One of the few things Diu shares with other beach destinations of India is the fact that it can be best explored on a bicycle or any motorized two-wheeler. Most people even find going around the island on foot to be thrilling. But, if you have a time constraint and wish to explore maximum places on the island, you can easily rent a two-wheeler for as cheap as Rs. 150 per day. Most two-wheeler renting places ask for a security deposit of Rs. 1000. These places also rent out bicycles for prices as low as Rs. 20 to Rs. 50 per day.
The Fudam bird sanctuary in Diu provides a unique opportunity to nature enthusiasts to watch an assortment of migratory birds in their natural habitat. Bird watchers can find western reef egrets, flamingos, spoonbills, and many other species of migratory birds in this sanctuary. Diu is also home to a bird-watching tower and a lake situated near Hare Krishna temple. Both places are a favorite among ornithologists.
Diu is the ideal destination for people who relish the adrenaline rush from water sports. The island offers a wide range of water sports such as Banana boat rides, jet skiing, parasailing, hot air balloon rides over the Arabian Sea. There are two main beaches in Diu, Ghoghla, and Nagoa, which are completely dedicated to water sports activities. Special activities for kids are also organized here, which include boat rides and beach biking, and many more.
Undoubtedly, Ghoghla and Nagoa are one of the most visited beaches in Diu due to all the touristy activities they offer. But, for tourists who want to experience something different, Gomtimata beach is a must-visit. This beach is filled with coral rocks and white sand which gives it a different topography altogether. This beach is an ideal spot for people who wish to enjoy sunsets away from the crowd.
If ancient architecture interests you, then you are in for a real treat here. The fort was built in 1535 and very impressively, its thick walls have stood the test of time. Not just that, this Portuguese fort offers a breathtaking view of the Arabian sea when you climb up to its lighthouse, which is also the highest point in Diu.
Diu is home to a lot of Portuguese sculpture and Naida caves are one of them. Due to their unique opening in the ground, these caves were used by the Portuguese to store their building material. It is believed that the formation of these caves has been through several geological processes. These caves are only 7 km from Diu island and easily accessible by tourists.
This unique temple is located only 6 km from Diu island and is home to 5 Lingas which are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its traditional architecture and tranquil location make Gangeshwar temple a must-visit place for people who are seeking inner peace and wish to dive deeper into mythology.
Diu Island is located a little away from the coast of Kathiawad near the Port of Veraval, Gujarat. Its coastal length is 21 km and it is situated around 768 km from Daman.
Nearest railway station: Delwada Railway (9 km from Diu)
Nearest airport: Diu airport
Diu to Mumbai: 818.9 km (Approx. 16 hours)
Diu to Daman: 659.8 km (Approx. 14 hours)
Diu to Ahmedabad: 366 km (Approx. 8 hours)
Diu to Rajkot: 231.7 km (Approx. 5 hours)
Diu to Somnath: 86.6km (Approx. 2 hours)
If you are looking for places for a quick weekend getaway, Diu has a lot to offer. Some of the places that you must consider are:
Covering approximately 1412 square kilometers area of dense forest, Gir National Park is home to some magnificent lions. This park is also the only place other than Africa where you can watch the majestic big cats in their natural habitat. In addition to this, Gir National park is also the natural abode of at least 250 species of birds, leopards, chinkaras, hyenas, and chousingha—the only four-horned antelopes found in the world.
Distance from Diu: 65.7 km
How much time does it take to reach: 2 hours by road
How to reach: Taxis are easily available for Sasan Gir from Diu. If you are looking for a more economical mode of transport, public buses ply regularly to Sasan Gir. If you want some additional comfort, opt for private bus services. They reduce the hassle of reaching the guest house or hotel from the bus depot sine they drop you directly at your destination. Buses ply regularly on this route, therefore, you don’t have to make any prior bookings.
The small temple town is only 5 km from Veraval in Gujarat. Somnath, which is also a sobriquet used for Lord Shiva, has been home to Shiva’s first jyotirlinga, which makes it a popular pilgrimage site among devotees. The Somnath temple, which houses the jyotirlinga, is believed to be built by the Moon (who is also known by the name of Soma) after lord Shiva revoked his father Daksha’s curse.
Distance from Diu: The total distance to Somnath is 82 km by road
How much time does it take to reach: 2 hours by road
How to reach: There are no direct flights, trains, or buses along this route. Therefore, the fastest and cheapest mode of transport that you can take to Somnath is a taxi.
Other than visiting the isolated and pristine beaches of Diu, one can enjoy some shopping time in the Bazaars too. There are more than enough things that tourists can pick from these markets and take away as souvenirs from this small island. The markets of Diu are popular for leather products and products made of bamboo. A popular shop located on the backside of the Town Square is known for its collection of household items which attracts a lot of tourists. Tourists who have a taste for some fine liquor can go shopping for Indian as well as foreign brands in the markets and procure their favorite liquor at cheaper rates.
The Town Square is a small, yet extremely popular Bazaar of Diu. In addition to this, there are many other small markets, such as Maharaja SuperMarket, that sell handmade articles that grab eyeballs with their finesse and intricacies. You can also head to Government Emporia to purchase handmade souvenirs made of terracotta, brassware, crochet, and shell work.
Just like any other coastal area of the country, fish is a predominant part of the local cuisine of Diu. But, the fish used for culinary purposes in Diu are way bigger than what you must have eaten at other places. The silver pomfret, the largest form of fish, is used to prepare a lot of dishes locally here. Just like its architecture, the imprints of Portuguese culture can also be found on the local cuisine of Diu. But the primary style of cooking in Diu has been adopted from Gujarat with a little hint of Goan flavors.
If you wish to enjoy the authentic local cuisine of Diu, head to a local eatery. Some of the popular restaurants that offer lip-smacking local cuisine include:
From offering pristine beaches to birdwatching opportunities, Diu is the hidden gem of the country. Diu is a must-visit destination for anyone who prefers a combination of adventure and serenity for a holiday because of all the thrilling and exhilarating experiences it offers.
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