Gujarat’s best-kept secret — a small Union Territory with Portuguese
Home -> Diu Travel Guide
Diu is a small Union Territory on the southern coast of Saurashtra — and Gujarat’s most surprising destination. Unlike the rest of Gujarat, Diu was a Portuguese colony until 1961 and retains a distinctly different character: clean beaches, colonial architecture, seafood restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere.
The island is separated from the mainland by a narrow channel and connected by two bridges. At just 40 square kilometres, it is small enough to explore entirely in a day by scooter. The contrast between Diu’s colonial quietness and the pilgrimage intensity of Somnath (just 90 km away) makes it a perfect combination destination.
Diu is also a Union Territory — not subject to Gujarat’s prohibition laws — making it popular for a relaxed coastal break after an intense pilgrimage circuit.
Built in 1535 — occupies an entire promontory. Stunning sea views, cannons, chapels and a lighthouse. Free entry, allow 1.5 hours.
16th century Portuguese Baroque church — beautifully maintained. One of the finest examples of colonial architecture in India.
Rent a scooter for ₹300–500/day — Diu is tiny and a scooter lets you see everything at your own pace in half a day.
Diu is 90 km from Somnath and 370 km from Ahmedabad. Diu airport has connections to Mumbai. Buses from Somnath daily.
Jet skiing, banana boat, parasailing available at Nagoa Beach from October to May. Avoid monsoon months.
Nagoa Beach
Diu’s most popular beach — clean, calm, and beautiful. Water sports available. Best visited at sunset
Chakratirth Beach
Rocky and dramatic with a lighthouse nearby — best beach for photography and quiet reflection. Usually empty.
Ghoghla Beach
On the mainland side — wide, shallow, and calm. Good for families with children. Clean and uncrowded.
INS Khukri Memorial
Peaceful memorial near Sunset Point — almost always empty and offers the best view of the Arabian Sea.
Diu has some of the best fresh seafood on the Saurashtra coast — a stark contrast to the predominantly vegetarian food in mainland Gujarat. The catch is brought in daily by local fishermen and served at beach shacks and restaurants across the island.
Grilled prawns, pomfret curry, crab masala and fresh lobster. Prices are remarkably affordable compared to other coastal destinations.
Apana Foodland for local Diu cuisine, O'Coqueiro for seafood and pasta, and beach shacks near Nagoa for fresh catch of the day.
Diu is tiny — rent a scooter for ₹300–500/day and see the entire island in a few hours at your own pace.
INS Khukri Memorial near Sunset Point — peaceful, almost always empty, and the best view of the Arabian Sea.
Diu is tiny — you can see everything in one long day. Combine with Somnath for a perfect 3-day circuit.
Govt Tourist Complex (budget), Azzaro Resort (mid), Radhika Beach Resort (premium beachside).
Most Gujarat travellers skip Diu — which means the beaches are often empty. Go to Chakratirth beach at 7 AM — just you, the lighthouse, and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the most peaceful moments available anywhere in western India.
Estimate for a self-guided day visit.
Your trusted travel guide for pilgrimage and tourism on the western coast of Gujarat — built with local knowledge for pilgrims, families, and explorers.
© 2026 Somnathtourism.com — Jai Somnath 🙏