Overview

Union Territory: Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
Capital: Daman
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Official Languages: Gujarati, Hindi, English
Nearest Airports: Diu Airport, Surat Airport, Mumbai Airport, and Silvassa (for Dadra & Nagar Haveli via Vapi railhead)

This territory was formed by merging two former UTs — Dadra & Nagar Haveli (between Maharashtra and Gujarat) and Daman & Diu (on the Arabian Sea coast). Together, they offer a delightful mix of beaches, forts, churches, and lush forests.

Major Destinations

1. Daman

Highlights:

  • Devka Beach: Ideal for evening strolls and beachside fun.
  • Jampore Beach: Calm waters, perfect for swimming and camel rides.
  • St. Jerome Fort (Nani Daman Fort): 17th-century Portuguese structure overlooking the Daman Ganga River.
  • Bom Jesus Church: Elegant Portuguese-style church built in the 16th century.
  • Daman Lighthouse: Offers panoramic views of the coastline.

Activities:
Jet skiing, parasailing, seafood dining, and heritage walks.

2. Diu

Highlights:

  • Nagoa Beach: The most famous beach with water sports and coconut groves.
  • Diu Fort: Massive Portuguese fort with sea-facing bastions.
  • St. Paul’s Church: Baroque-style marvel from the colonial era.
  • Naida Caves: Intriguing network of rock formations near the fort.
  • INS Khukri Memorial: Warship monument honoring naval heroes.

Activities:
Scuba diving, boating, surfing, exploring colonial architecture, and visiting seaside eateries.

3. Silvassa (Dadra & Nagar Haveli)

Highlights:

  • Vanganga Lake Garden: Picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery.
  • Hirwa Van Garden: Beautifully landscaped garden with waterfalls.
  • Tribal Cultural Museum: Showcases the art, costumes, and traditions of local tribes.
  • Lion Safari Wildlife Park: Part of the Dadra & Nagar Haveli Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Khanvel & Dudhani Lake: Ideal for boating and nature retreats.

Activities:
Boating, wildlife spotting, and cultural exploration.

Top Experiences

  • Beach Hopping: Diu’s beaches and Daman’s shores are perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
  • Colonial Heritage Tour: Explore Portuguese churches and forts in Daman and Diu.
  • Tribal & Nature Escapes: Experience the tranquil landscapes and forest culture of Silvassa.
  • Food Trails: Try seafood platters, coconut-based curries, and Portuguese-influenced dishes.

Local Cuisine

  • Popular Dishes: Fish curry, prawn fry, crab masala, chicken vindaloo, and Bebinca (dessert).
  • Local Drinks: Palm toddy and coconut water are common local favorites.

Shopping

  • Handicrafts: Warli paintings, bamboo crafts, and handmade furniture.
  • Souvenirs: Shell jewelry, wooden artworks, and traditional tribal crafts.

How to Reach

By Air:

  • Diu Airport connects to Mumbai and other major cities.
  • Surat and Mumbai airports serve Daman and Silvassa via short road journeys.

By Train:

  • Nearest stations: Vapi (for Daman and Silvassa), Veraval (for Diu).

By Road:

  • Well-connected to Mumbai (170 km), Surat (120 km), and Ahmedabad (400 km).

Where to Stay

Luxury:

  • The Deltin, Daman
  • Azzaro Resorts & Spa, Diu
  • Treat Resort, Silvassa

Mid-range:

  • Kostamar Beach Resort (Diu)
  • Hotel Princess Park (Daman)
  • Ras Resort (Silvassa)

Budget:

  • Hotel Gurukripa (Daman)
  • Hotel Apaar (Diu)
  • Hill View Resort (Silvassa)

Ideal Itinerary (4 Days)

Day 1: Arrive in Daman → Visit Jampore & Devka Beach → Sunset at Lighthouse
Day 2: Explore St. Jerome Fort & Churches → Drive to Silvassa → Evening at Vanganga Lake
Day 3: Tribal Museum → Dudhani Lake → Wildlife Park
Day 4: Drive to Diu → Visit Diu Fort, Naida Caves & Nagoa Beach → Departure

Travel Tips

  • Carry sunscreen and hats for beach days.
  • Alcohol is permitted here (unlike Gujarat), but drink responsibly.
  • Best time to visit: Winter months (Oct–Mar) for pleasant weather.
  • Avoid monsoon for beach activities (June–September).