DIU

 Diu is an island lying off the south coast of Gujarat's Kathiawar peninsula, separated from the mainland by a tidal creek. It has an area of 40 sq.km, and a population of 44,110 (2001 census). The town of Diu lies at the eastern end of the island, and is famous for its fortress and old Portuguese Cathedral. It is also a fishing town. The Indian Air Force has an air base here. The village of Ghoghla, which lies on the mainland opposite the eastern end of the island, is also part of the union territory. The word 'Diu' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'Dweeb'. With a pleasant climate throughout the year, it affords unprecedented peace and tranquillity to tourists. The beautiful tiny island, with a coastal length of 21 kms., is at a distance of about 930 kms. from Bombay.

How to reach

• By Air

Diu is connected by Vayudoot services with Bombay and Ahmadabad.

• By Train

Nearest rail head is Delwada (9 km) connected via Veraval by metre gauge line. However Veraval (85 km) is the convenient rail head connected to Bombay via Ahmadabad.

• By Road

Diu is well connected by road via Una (30 km), to Ahmedabad (495 km), Bhavnagar (225 km), Bombay (930 km), Daman (763 km), Sasangir (128 km), Rajkot (261 km), Somnath (87 km), Veraval (77 km).

There are regular state transport bus services from Una, Delwada to Diu. Diu is also connected by direct bus services with Veraval, Kodinar and Bombay. Private buses and Auto rickshaws ply within the town.

Places of Interest at Diu

The fort of Diu which occupies a very prominent position. It is an expansive and imposing structure situated on the extreme coast of the island. The fort commands a magnificent view of the sea and its surrounding areas. Towards the west of the fort lies the town of Diu. A number of old cannons and collection of iron shells can be seen here. Near the Diu Fort, is Panikotha fortress in the sea which can be reached by boat. At night it is lit up, giving an excellent view.

The Gangeshwar Temple is unique as it has Shivlingas which are washed by the sea. Located at the Jallandhar beach, there are many other attractions nearby. The two main churches are St. Paul's and St. Francis of Assisi.

The horseshoe shaped Nagoa Beach is one of the best in India. A tented camp offering a different style of accommodation has come up here. Water sports facilities are available and one can also enjoy a good swim.

The Somnath Temple is also only a short distance from here. It is a magnificent place of worship. The massive historic Diu (Praca de Diu) fort cum-castle built in 1535 impresses most of the visitors. It was the key position of the whole strategic complex which comprises the other forts-one at Gogola which was destroyed in 1896; the Passo Seco Fort at about 8 Km from the city. This fort predates the Portuguese conquest. At Brancavara there were two other forts. One known as Barra now converted into a lighthouse, the second as Nagoa Fort built in 1773. Besides these forts, there is also a historical cathedral dedicated to St. Paul, a palace, Tad Fort, Old Fort and Nagoa Beach. 

 fortress Panikot, Jallandharov the ark,  Diu Museum, Jama Masjid.Shaking Tower, Delwada 9 km, Gupta Prayag 9 km; Tulsihyam 45 km,, Sasan Gir Forest 28 km, 85 km Girnar Hill; VERANDER Hill 195 km, Dwarka 240 km.Diu is a very popular and important tourist resort.