Daman & Diu,
the second smallest Union Territory of India, is located on
the west coast. Daman and Diu are two separate areas, geographically
located within the state of Gujarat. Daman is close to the
town of Vapi in southern Gujarat, while Diu is near Junagarh
in the Saurashtra Peninsula of Gujarat. Daman & Diu were
part of the Portuguese territories in India, and joined the
Indian Union in 1961. After that Goa, Daman & Diu were
part of a single Union Territory till 1987 when Goa became
a separate state. Daman is the administrative headquarters
of Daman & Diu.
Daman is divided by the Damanganga
River into two parts. It is known for its twin forts the Moti
Daman and the Nani Daman. Moti Daman has wide streets, a 17th-century
church the Se Cathedral and a lighthouse. Nani Daman has the
Church of Our Lady of Rosary and a fishing village nearby.
Near the river is an 18th-century Jain Temple with murals.
In Dabhel village is the important Somnath Mahadev Temple
dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devka Beach and Jampore beach are
also tourist spots.
Diu is a tiny island in the
Arabian Sea, near the port of Veraval, connected by two bridges
to the mainland. Chassi is its main river. To the east of
the town of Diu is the Diu Fort, right on the coast. The Panikotha
(Water House) is a smaller fortress and accessible by boat.
Gangeshwar Temple is dedicated to Shiva. The churches of St.
Paul and St. Francis of Assisi are located at the Jallandhar
Beach. The Nagoa Beach is a fine beach and so named because
of its horseshoe shape. Diu is also noted for its birdlife
including blue rock pigeon, doves and parrots. During the
cooler months from August till February many migratory birds
also visit the island. |