“I need a break!” Yes, it was needed to break the monotonicity. The message was well conveyed and instant bookings were done.
The Destination:
DIU - The Diu of Daman and Diu, Union Territory of India. Technically they both are 640 kms apart and connectivity for Daman is far easier than Diu.
Diu is a small city with radius of 15 km and population of 30, 000. It was a Portuguese colony and that still reflects well in the city.
How to Reach:
By Air: Yes, this small city has a tiny airport, Diu Airport which connects this city to the world at a faster pace.
By Train: The nearest major station is Veraval, which is 90 kms from Diu. This station is well connected with Ahmadabad.
By Road: Diu is well connected by roads and there are good highways that connect this city with some of the major metros.
We traveled odd 400 kms by road; from Ahmedabad to Diu. There are several routes; the Bhavnagar highway that connects the two cities was not in good shape then because of heavy rains (hearsay is the journey alongside the sea shore is charismatic). We took the detour via Gir forests (Dhandhuka Vallabhipur Highway). This journey was mostly a two lane wide highway but was beautiful. The tiger butterflies fluttered around rabbles of them at times was a treat for eyes. The herds of deer grazing a few feet away, as we slowly passed through the 18 km long stretch of Gir forest was worth killing the engine and enjoying the enthusiastic whispers coming from the back seat of our car.
Where to Stay:
There are many hotels and beach resorts. The most preferred amongst all are Sugati Beach Resort and Radhika Resort. Recently Azzaro Resorts is also building up its reputation.
Sugati Beach Resort is located as we enter Diu. Well spaced resort with swimming pool, recreational area and restaurant. The back gate of the resort opens in Ghoghla Beach (the largest and sandy beach of Diu). It is not a private beach but is very tidy and beautiful. A few adventure sports are organized there.
The staff was courteous, food was good and resort was spic-n-span, which made our stay pleasant.
Radhika resort is on the other extreme of Diu. It also has to offer many activities and very much synonymous to Sugati, but unlike Sugati where the beach begins from the back gate, we have to cross the road to go to the beach.
Azzaro is a new resort; although we didn’t stay there but we enjoyed a meal there and the ambience and place definitely looks promising.
Places to visit:
Beaches: Both sandy and rocky beaches are part of Diu. They are clean, scenic and each one has its own charm and a fascinating story to share which can be as old as lord Krishna. They also offer adventure sports and other fun activities you can indulge in.
INS Khukri Memorial: A memorial to salute the crew of INS Khukri which was hit by Pakistani torpedoes in 1971 war.
Gangeshwar Temple: A cave temple of Lord Shiva where sea waves touch the Shiva idol.
St. Paul’s Church: Diu was a Portuguese colony, and so the influence can be seen clearly in St Paul’s Church. It is very much similar to the churches I saw in Goa. The architecture is magnificient and is well maintained.
Diu Fort: A marvelous structure which narrates well the history. The double moat and St. George’s Bastion, the carefully crafted fort with strong defenses showcase many stories of the past. As we climbed those stairs we could feel how they were used to drain enemy’s energy and how the sea on three sides of the fort stood tall against the enemy. A portion of the same is now used as a jail.
Panikotha: We missed this tourist attraction. It is a stone structure in sea, a light house which is visible from most of the Diu. One can reach there by local boats available.
Naida Caves: The caves near fort, which have very unique structure.
Apart from above there are few museums.
Some Advices and Suggestions:
1.Either one of the members can stay out of water, keep everyone’s gadgets and phones and see everyone having fun OR leave the technology world in your room before you embrace the nature OR carry a waterproof bag, so that you can partially enjoy both.
2.Please do not hesitate to use the reception about the places; because you might not find anyone else (the place doesn’t have many people). Ask the rates of adventure sports and other activities you intend to indulge in. I am sure they will be happy to help.
3.There are dolphin sightings in Diu, but that happens in summer season. Confirm the same with the hotel staff before paying the person who promises to show you dolphins.
4.I saw a many shops which offered bike on hire, which can come in handy for many.
5.Somnath Temple is odd 80 kms from there. Apart from that there are many more places to visit around Diu, which you can check out on web.
In all, Diu is one of the divine places one can visit. It is untouched and still holds the charm. The place is definitely relaxing, and my idea to rejuvenate is completely justified here.
Happy Holidays!