Diu: A Legacy of Sun, Sand, and Sea
Diu is a small but extraordinarily beautiful Union Territory of India, situated on a tiny island off the southern tip of Gujarat’s Saurashtra peninsula. Separated from the mainland by a narrow creek, Diu has a character entirely its own — shaped by over 450 years of Portuguese rule from 1535 until its liberation in 1961.
Unlike the bustling pilgrim cities nearby, Diu offers a calm, unhurried atmosphere — wide tree-lined avenues, whitewashed churches, pastel-coloured colonial buildings, and pristine beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Arabian Sea. It is one of the few places in western India where you can enjoy a Portuguese-style seafront alongside ancient Hindu temples and a magnificent sea fort.
Whether you are looking for peaceful beach relaxation, colonial heritage exploration, water sports, or a quiet escape from the pilgrim trail, Diu delivers an experience unlike any other destination in the region.
Diu – Where Portugal Meets Gujarat
Diu’s uniqueness lies in its extraordinary layering of cultures. The island was a Portuguese colonial possession for 426 years (1535–1961) and the influence is visible in every corner — from the ornate Baroque churches to the cobblestone streets of the old town.
What Makes Diu Unique:
- Portuguese Architecture – Churches, fort, and colonial-era buildings unlike anywhere in Gujarat
- Alcohol Permitted – As a Union Territory, Diu allows alcohol, unlike dry Gujarat (popular with domestic tourists)
- Clean, Uncrowded Beaches – Some of Gujarat region’s cleanest and most scenic shores
- Island Setting – Accessible by road bridge; surrounded by sea on three sides
- Panikotha (Sea Fort) – A fortress island rising dramatically from the sea, visible from Diu Fort
📍 Where Is Diu Located?
Diu is a Union Territory of India, located on a small island off the southern coast of Gujarat’s Saurashtra peninsula, in the Arabian Sea. It is connected to the mainland by two road bridges.
- Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides
- Connected to Gujarat mainland via Ghoghla and Una bridges
- Nearest mainland town: Una (Gir Somnath district) — just 16 km
Distances from Key Destinations:
- Somnath: 80 km (2 hours)
- Junagadh: 170 km (3 – 4 hours)
- Gir National Park (Sasan): 100 km (2 – 3 hours)
- Rajkot: 230 km (5 hours)
- Ahmedabad: 350 km (6 –7 hours)
🏖️ Beaches of Diu
Diu’s beaches are its greatest treasure — wide, clean, and far less crowded than most Indian coastal destinations.
🌊 Nagoa Beach:
Diu’s most famous beach — a long horseshoe-shaped bay lined with Hoka palm trees. Calm waters ideal for swimming. Water sports available. Closest to town, easily accessible.
🌅 Ghoghla Beach:
The longest beach in Diu, located near the entry bridge from Gujarat. Shallow, calm water excellent for families. Less crowded than Nagoa. Stunning sunsets.
🪨 Chakratirth Beach:
A rocky beach near Diu town, ideal for watching sunsets over the sea. Has a small garden and viewpoint. Not suitable for swimming due to rocks and currents.
🐚 Jallandhar Beach:
A small, quiet beach near Diu Fort. A shrine of Jallandhar (a mythological sea demon) adds a unique character. Good for peaceful walks and photography.
🏰 Heritage Sites & Attractions
Diu Fort:
Built by the Portuguese in 1535, Diu Fort is one of the finest and best-preserved Portuguese fortifications in Asia. Perched on the eastern tip of the island, surrounded by sea on three sides, the fort offers spectacular views of the Arabian Sea and the mysterious Panikotha Island Fort that floats eerily offshore.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (daily)
- Entry: Free
- Houses a lighthouse, old cannons, and sea-facing bastions
- A prison was once located inside — now a heritage structure
St. Paul’s Church:
Built in 1601, St. Paul’s Church is one of the most ornate and beautifully preserved Baroque churches in Asia. The intricate whitewashed façade, carved altars, and vaulted interior are breathtaking. It remains an active church and is the spiritual heart of Diu’s small Christian community.
- Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry: Free
- Photography allowed inside
St. Thomas Church (Museum):
Originally a Portuguese church, St. Thomas Church has been converted into an Archaeological Museum displaying Portuguese-era sculptures, artefacts, and local history exhibits.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Closed: Fridays
- Entry Fee: Nominal charge
Panikotha (Sea Fort / Fortim do Mar):
A small Portuguese fort built on an island in the creek, Panikotha (also called Fortim do Mar) is visible from Diu Fort and town. It was used as a prison during Portuguese rule and has a fascinating history. Boat trips to Panikotha can be arranged from Diu town jetty.
Shell Museum:
A unique private museum near Nagoa Beach housing an extraordinary collection of over 2,500 sea shells from around the world — a must-visit for families and nature enthusiasts.
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Nominal charge
🎯 Things to Do in Diu
Water Sports at Nagoa Beach:
- Jet Skiing – Popular and widely available
- Parasailing – Aerial views of the coastline
- Banana Boat Rides – Fun for families and groups
- Speed Boating – Thrill rides along the coast
- Kayaking & Paddle Boarding – Calmer options available
Exploration & Sightseeing:
- Walk the Old Town (Diu Town) — cobblestone streets, colourful houses, local fish market
- Sunrise at Chakratirth Beach — spectacular views
- Sunset at Nagoa Beach or Ghoghla Beach
- Boat trip to Panikotha Island Fort
- Cycling around the island — flat terrain, great roads
- Visit INS Khukri Memorial — dedicated to the warship sunk in the 1971 war; moving tribute to naval martyrs
ℹ️ Important Visitor Information
- Diu is a Union Territory — governed separately from Gujarat; different rules apply
- Alcohol is legally available in Diu, unlike dry Gujarat — sold at licensed shops and restaurants
- No entry permit required — open access for all Indian and foreign tourists
- Foreign nationals must carry valid passport/visa — some permit formalities may apply; check current rules
- Dress modestly when visiting churches and temples
- Swimming is generally safe at Nagoa and Ghoghla beaches but exercise caution during monsoon
- Water sports operators are available at Nagoa Beach — negotiate rates before starting
- Carry cash — while ATMs are available, many beach vendors and small eateries are cash-only
- Diu town is compact and walkable — rent a bicycle or scooter for independent island exploration
- Best local seafood is available at O’Coqueiro and Apana Foodland — fresh catch daily
