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.

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.

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.
View Top Restaurants in 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.

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

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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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

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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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.

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

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