Diu, a tranquil coastal town nestled on the western shores of India, exudes a unique charm with its pristine beaches, Portuguese architecture, and a serene ambience. Steeped in history, Diu showcases remnants of its colonial past through landmarks like the Diu Fort and the elegant Church of St. Paul. The city's culinary scene is a delightful journey for the taste buds, featuring a fusion of seafood delicacies, Portuguese-inspired dishes, and local flavours. From delectable fish curries to savoury snacks like the popular Diu Prawn Koliwada, Diu tourism mirrors the town's diverse cultural influences. This Diu travel guide unfolds a captivating narrative, inviting you to explore the town's hidden gems and savour its unique blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty. Let's embark on an unforgettable journey to the soul of coastal India.
How to reach Diu
- By air:Diu Airport (DIU), located around 7 km from the city centre, connects Diu with major cities in India. It has one terminal that caters to both domestic and commercial flights to Diu, providing a convenient option for travellers.
- By road: Diu enjoys well-maintained road connectivity with neighbouring cities and towns. State-run and private buses operate services to and from Diu, making it accessible by road. The Ghoghla Bus Stand serves as the main terminal in Diu and is well-connected to various parts of the region.
- By sea: The city can also be reached by sea. The Diu Port connects the island with Veraval in Gujarat, and ferry services are available for passengers.
- Getting around/local transport in Diu: The city is best explored on foot as the compact size of Diu makes it pedestrian-friendly. Additionally, Diu offers various modes of local transportation such as auto-rickshaws and taxis that are readily available for convenient travel within the city and its outskirts. Tourists can also rent bikes and scooters and explore the island at their own pace, while buses operate services to different parts of the city.
Diu Fort
It is a historic marvel featuring grand architecture and scenic views of the sea.
Experience Time: 2-3 hoursSt. Paul's Church
Exploration time: 1 hourGhoghla Beach
Exploration time: 2 hoursDiu Museum
Exploration time: 1-2 hoursDiu's Lighthouse
Exploration time: 1-2 hoursGangeshwar Mahadev Temple
Exploration time: 1-2 hoursFood in Diu blends coastal flavours with diverse influences, offering a delightful journey. Here are some popular places to eat while you are in the city:
Diu, with its serene beaches, rich history, and lively culture, offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Diu:
The best time to visit Diu is from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the city's attractions without the intensity of summer heat.
The primary languages spoken in Diu are Gujarati, Hindi, and English. While Gujarati is the regional language, Hindi is widely understood, and English is commonly used in tourist areas.
Exploring the markets of Diu is an exciting experience, offering a mix of local craftsmanship, traditional artefacts, and seaside charm.
- Diu Bazaar: Diu Bazaar is the bustling heart of shopping in Diu, where you can find a diverse range of local crafts, traditional textiles, and souvenirs. Stroll through the lively lanes to discover handmade items, seashell artefacts, and intricately designed jewellery.
- Fort Road Market: Situated along the historic Fort Road, this market is a treasure trove of local delights. From traditional textiles to handmade crafts, Fort Road Market captures the essence of Diu's cultural heritage, providing a delightful shopping experience.
- Ghoghla Market: Ghoghla Market caters to locals and tourists, offering a range of shops selling everyday essentials, clothing, and local products.
As you plan to visit Diu, you'll uncover additional facets contributing to its allure. Let's delve into more reasons that make Diu a captivating destination.
- Jalandhar Beach: Bask in the serene beauty of Jalandhar Beach, a tranquil stretch of coastline along the Arabian Sea. Its soft sands and clear water provide an idyllic setting for leisurely walks, beach picnics, or simply unwinding as you listen to the rhythmic sounds of the waves.
- INS Khukri Memorial: Pay homage to the INS Khukri Memorial, dedicated to the Indian Navy's sacrifice during the Indo-Pak War in 1971. The memorial is a poignant reminder of the bravery and courage of the naval personnel. The picturesque location overlooking the sea adds a sense of solemnity to the tribute.
- Festa De Diu: If your visit aligns with the Festa De Diu, city’s longest beach festival, you're in for a cultural extravaganza. The festival celebrates music, art, and culture, attracting artists and performers worldwide.
- Adventure activities: Diu is great for water sports like parasailing, jet skiing, and scuba diving. You can also go on a boat trip to see dolphins or visit the nearby island of Panikota Fort. Enjoy a fun ride with bumper boats and banana boating, or explore the coastline at your own pace with stand-up paddleboarding.