Overview
About Diu
Diu is a small island off the southern tip of the Saurashtra peninsula in Gujarat, separated from the mainland by a narrow creek and linked to it by bridges. Along with Daman, it forms part of the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. The island is compact enough to cover by scooter in a day, yet its slow pace makes many visitors stay longer than planned.
The Portuguese held Diu for over four centuries until 1961, and the town still feels distinctly different from the rest of Gujarat. A massive sea-facing fort guards the eastern end, whitewashed churches rise above narrow lanes, and old houses with colourful facades line the streets near the market. Fishing boats crowd the harbour at Vanakbara, on the island's western tip.
Diu's other big draw is its coastline. Nagoa, a horseshoe-shaped bay fringed by palms, is the most popular beach, while Ghoghla, Jallandhar and Chakratirth offer quieter stretches. Add sea caves, a seaside Shiva shrine and easy road trips to Somnath and Gir, and Diu makes a pleasant break on any Saurashtra itinerary.
- Diu Fort
- Nagoa Beach
- Portuguese churches
- Naida Caves
- Seafood
- Laid-back island life
Sightseeing
Best Places to Visit in Diu
Forts & Heritage
Diu Fort
A large Portuguese fort on the eastern edge of the island, surrounded by the sea on three sides, with cannons, a lighthouse and wide views from its ramparts.
Panikota Fort
A small stone fortress standing in the sea at the mouth of the creek, best seen from Diu Fort or the jetty, especially when lit up at night.
St Paul's Church
The finest of Diu's churches, with an elaborate baroque facade and carved wooden interiors, and still in use for services.
St Thomas Church Museum
An old church converted into a museum of wooden saints, stone sculptures and relics from Diu's past, with views over town from the roof.
Zampa Gateway
An ornate gateway in the old town walls, decorated with carvings of lions, angels and a priest, with a small chapel inside.
Nature
Naida Caves
A network of tunnels and caverns just outside the old town walls, where sunlight pours in through gaps in the rock, making it a favourite with photographers.
Beaches
Nagoa Beach
A curved, sheltered bay lined with palms near the airport, with calm water in season and plenty of water sports and snack stalls.
Ghoghla Beach
A long, open beach on the mainland side of Diu, quieter than Nagoa and good for long walks.
Gangeshwar Temple
A seaside Shiva shrine at Fudam where five lingams sit among the rocks and are washed by the waves at high tide.
Nearby Excursions
Somnath
One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the shore temple at Somnath lies about 90 km west of Diu and is a popular day trip.
Gir National Park
The only natural home of the Asiatic lion lies a few hours' drive from Diu, with safaris from Sasan Gir in the open season.
Experiences
Top Things to Do in Diu
- 1
Scooter around the island
Rent a scooter and ride the coastal roads between the fort, the beaches and the fishing village of Vanakbara at your own pace.
- 2
Explore the old town on foot
Wander between the churches, Zampa Gateway and the market lanes to see Diu's Portuguese-era houses.
- 3
Try water sports at Nagoa
Parasailing, jet skiing and banana boat rides operate at Nagoa and Ghoghla during the dry season.
- 4
Watch the sunset at the INS Khukri Memorial
This memorial on a hill near Chakratirth honours the sailors of the INS Khukri and faces the sea at sunset.
- 5
Eat fresh seafood
Try lobster, prawns and pomfret at beach shacks and small restaurants near the market and Nagoa.
Weather
Best Time to Visit Diu
The best time to visit Diu is October to March. Here is what each season is like.
Summer
March to May
24°C to 36°C
Hot, sunny days with a steady sea breeze that helps a little. Visit the fort and caves early and keep afternoons for rest.
Monsoon
June to September
24°C to 32°C
Moderate rain and rough seas mean water sports stop, but the island turns green and very quiet.
Winter
October to February
15°C to 30°C
The best season, with clear skies, calm seas and pleasant days for beach time and sightseeing.
Getting there
How to Reach Diu
By Air
Diu Airport near Nagoa Beach has a limited number of flights, so check current schedules. Rajkot and Ahmedabad have far more connections, and taxis or buses can be taken from there for the onward road journey.
By Rail
Delvada, a small station about 8 km from Diu, sees only a few trains. Veraval, about 90 km away, is the more practical railhead, with trains from Ahmedabad, Rajkot and Mumbai, and taxis to Diu.
By Road
Diu is reached via the town of Una, about 12 km away, on Gujarat's coastal highway. State and private buses run from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Junagadh and Veraval, and Ahmedabad is roughly 350 km away by road.
Taste of the city
Famous Food of Diu
Grilled and fried fish
The day's catch, from pomfret to kingfish, simply spiced and cooked at beachside shacks.
Lobster and prawns
Diu is known for good shellfish, often cooked in butter-garlic or masala styles.
Portuguese-style curries
Some local kitchens still make vinegar-spiced meat and seafood dishes that reflect the island's colonial past.
Kathiyawadi thali
A spicy Saurashtrian vegetarian spread of rotlo, kadhi, sev tameta and vegetables.
Travel Tips for Diu
- Swim only at Nagoa during calm conditions and follow lifeguard instructions.
- Carry ID; vehicle checks are common at the Diu–Gujarat border.
- Two-wheelers are the easiest way to get around, but wear a helmet and carry a valid licence.
- Book ahead on long weekends, when visitors from Gujarat fill the island.
FAQs
Diu Travel FAQs
What is the best time to visit Diu?
October to February is the best time to visit Diu, with pleasant weather and calm seas. Summers are hot and the monsoon brings rough water.
How many days are enough for Diu?
Two to three days are enough to see Diu Fort, the churches, Naida Caves and the main beaches. Add a day if you want to visit Somnath or Gir.
What is Diu famous for?
Diu is famous for its Portuguese fort and churches, Nagoa Beach, the Naida Caves, seafood and its quiet island atmosphere.
Which is the best beach in Diu?
Nagoa Beach is the most popular for its sheltered, palm-lined bay and water sports, while Ghoghla and Jallandhar are quieter.
How do I reach Diu by train?
Veraval, about 90 km away, is the most practical railway station for Diu, with taxis and buses for the onward journey. Delvada is closer but has few trains.
Can you combine Diu with Somnath and Gir?
Yes. Somnath is about 90 km from Diu and Gir National Park is a few hours away, making them easy to combine on a Saurashtra road trip.
