Overview
Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a Union Territories of India. It lies on the west coast and comprises of two separate parts – Dadra primarily lies in Gujarat whereas Nagar Haveli is located on the borders of Maharashtra and Gujarat. Silvassa makes for the capital of this union territory. Marathi and Gujarati are the languages of the locals and English is the official language.
The striking feature of this region is it natural beauty. Green forests, rivers, gurgling streams, waterfalls, white sandy beaches, kaleidoscope of flora and fauna that grow here, exemplify the intricate beauty of nature. The climate is temperate and pleasant during winters. Even the summers are cool here, due to its proximity to the sea.
Dadra and Nagar Haveli was ruled by Portugese for more than one and a half century, even after the independence of India. Its history is chequered and not documented. The Indian nationalist volunteers marched for liberation of this Union Territory and achieved their goal in July 1954, and a pro-India administration was formed.
The major earning of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is through tourism. It is the ideal location to rejuvenate from the crowded city life. Not much is retained, but those who are working in tourism, have maintained the last pieces of foreign culture that helps in luring tourists. Agriculture is the main occupation for the local population of this Union Territory.
The rustic bridges, jogging paths, flower gardens, thatched huts and boats, all make for a favourable getaway.
The cuisines vary in variety, from typical Gujarati dishes to well-known Maharashtrian fish cuisines. The cuisine is heavily influenced by Maharashtrian and Gujrati cuisine. Most of the population residing in Dadra and Nagar Haveli comprises of Kokna and Bhil tribes.