One of the main reason to come to Gujarat is Diu. The ex Portuguese town is as small as its name but the beguiling beauty of the place beckons travelers from different part of the world. The tiny island is situated at the southern tip of the Saurashtra peninsula of Gujarat, offers travelers fine beaches, whitewashed churches, an imposing fort, colorful markets, savoring sea food, cheap booze and plenty of sunshine. Before the Portuguese the Island was ruled by many kings and dynasties. It has rich ancient history, beginning with the Puranic Hindu period and end with Portuguese from whom it was liberated along with Goa and Daman on 19th December, 1961.



Diu is spread over an area of 38.8 sq km and a coastline of 21km. Ghoghla is the entry point of Diu if enter from Una, a town in Saurashtra. The road leads to Diu city is lined with Hoka trees(an African tree) and coconut palms swaying and whispering in the gentle intoxicating sea, welcomes every traveler. Diu fort is undoubtedly the best attraction among tourist. The fort is located on the extreme coast of the island. The fort is also house old cannons and iron shells. Other than fort there are different temples like Gangeshwar and Somnath temple and beaches that are the biggest draw of tourism.

Sights And Activities

Nagoa Beach
In a small hamlet of Bucharwada, this beautiful and serene beach is located. This horse shaped beach is an ideal place for swimming and variety of water sports. The coast line is adorned with coconut and hoka trees.

Ghoghla Beach
This is also very popular beach among visitors. The golden sand, palm fringed beach is also a nice place for swimming and gamboling. A nice tourist complex along the beach offers all basic comforts. You can also opt for many water sports such as swimming, parasailing, surfing etc.

Jallandhar Beach
An easily accessible beach from Diu city, is also famous for Jallander shrine on a hillock. The shrine is dedicated to a mythological demon who was killed by Lord Krishna. The temple of goddess Chandrika is also nearby attraction. The beach is particularly famous among foreign tourists, a gentle curve that's good for swimming and it is quite hassle free.
Gangeshwar Temple
In a small village known as Fudam, about 3km from Diu, this highly revered Hindu temple is located. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and in the midst of rocks on the sea shore there are five shivlingas are located.

St Paul's Church
The church was established in early 17th century. The church is the most elaborate Portuguese church in India. The motifs and wood carving is magnificent and resemblance famous Bom Jesus Church at Goa. The architectural style is Gothic and has excellent craftsmanship.

Sea Shell Museum
This unique museum preserve maximum number of sea shells of various shapes and sizes. The museum houses about 2500 to 3000 sea shells. The museum is very near to Nagoa beach.