Diu, India travel

Diu, a tiny island measuring less than forty kilometers, is situated off the Saurashtra coast of the state of Gujarat. The island is on the Arabian Sea with the Chasi River going through it. The island was a Portuguese colony from the year 1534 to 1961, when it was taken over by the Indian government. The Portuguese used Diu as their naval base due to its strategic position.

The coastline of the island is lesser than twenty-one kilometers in length. Fishing is the main activity of the people of Diu. It is an exquisitely beautiful getaway with golden sand beaches, dense palm groves and historical monuments. There is hardly any commercial exploitation and environmental degradation.

Nagoa beach in Diu, a horseshoe shaped white-sanded beach, is one of the best beaches of the world. Other beaches in Diu are Ahmedpur, Mandvi, Chakratirath, Jallandhar and Gomtimata. Water sports, camel and pony riding are provided on the beaches.

The Diu fort is an imposing structure constructed around the year 1541. It is surrounded by sea on three sides. The fort has canons, which reminds one of the struggles between the ‘Bahadurshah’, Sultan of Gujarat, ‘Humayun’, the Mughal Emperor and the Portuguese.

St. Paul’s Church is a historical Portuguese church adorned with shell-like motifs.

Gangeshwar temple is in the Fudam village, which is about three kilometers away from Diu. This is the temple of Lord Shiva, one of the Hindu Gods.

The Diu Museum has on display antique statues, stone inscriptions of the earlier rulers, wooden carvings, idol shadow-clocks and other important artifacts.

Diu has a pleasant climate throughout the year and provides peace and tranquility to its people.

The best part of Diu is during the ‘Navratras’ festival, when people perform the ‘Garba’ dance, a folk dance from Gujarat. During this festival, the island is cleaned up and adorned. People dress up in colorful costumes and dance to traditional ‘Gujarati’ music.

Diu is one of India’s undiscovered jewels.