Western Wonder: Daman

- Elina Mohanty

Guarded by the gigantic Arabian Sea on its side, the quaint and petite island of Daman is spread over an area of 72 km². The union Terrritory of Daman and Diu are often named together, however they are seaparated by a large distance. Diu is 786 km away from Daman.

Daman is spread over a small piece of land is dotted with churches, beaches and forts. Daman, a past colony of Portugal, has marvelous Portuguese architectural buildings. The old world charm is felt is every narrow street of Daman. This meagerly populated town houses factories of various major industries.

Daman is broadly divided into two towns, Nani Daman and Moti Daman, Separated by Daman Ganga. Both the towns offer unique architecture and natural creations.

History

The Portuguese seized Daman in 1531, from the Gujarat ruler in the region. However the Sultan of Gujarat formally handed it over to the Portuguese in 1539. Daman continued under the colonial power of Portugal until the Indian forces rescued it in 1961.

Places to Visit

Devka Beach

The most attractive place in Daman is the long shoreline of Devka Beach. From sunbathers and beachcombers to sightseers, swimmers, the beach satisfies all.

Nani Daman(Little Daman)

It is the northern part of Daman and mostly visited by tourists; therefore it has a good presence of many hotels and restaurants.

Nani Daman Fort (St. Jerome Fort)

One of the old forts in Daman. It is well known for its architectural designs.

Gandhi Park

This park is famous amongst the youngsters and older men and women as it gives them a chance to relax in the silent ambience of the park

Jain Temple

Daman is multi cultural in its nature. Christians, Jains and Hindus inhabit the town. this famous Jain temple is very famous and scared amongst the Jains.

Fishing Jetty

The main occupation of the people in Daman is Fishing but even tourists can have fun fishing here by hiring fishing rods.

Moti Daman (Great Daman)

This southern side of Daman is embossed by the Portugal architecture. The government buildings as well as other important Bungalows have traces of Gothic style.

Light house

It is famous amonst the tourists for its stately appeal.

Moti Daman Fort

This fort dates back to 17th century. It houses famous churches of Daman, Bom Jesus Church and Our Lady of Rosary Chapel

The Jampore beach

This beach, near to Jampore village, is famous for water sports and games.

Along with these attractive tourist spots, Daman also offers other amusement zones like Hilsa Aquarium, Kachigam Water Tank, Hathi Park, Bridge Side Garden, etc.

Shopping

The narrow streets of Daman offers a unique range of Bars that sell India’s finest Scotch, Whisky and Feni. There are also an endless row of food stalls selling yummy pomfret, prawn, dadha, Bombay duck, crab,etc

How to get to Daman

Daman has an airport and is linked to Baroda and Mumbai by Gujarat Airways.

Nearest rail head to Daman is Vapi (12 kms) on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad line of western railway.

By Road Vapi, which lies on Mumbai-Ahmedabad NH no.8 connects Daman by road to Bombay 193 km, Ahmedabad 367 km, Diu 763 km & Panaji via Bombay 787 km.
Regular S.T.Bus services are available from Vapi, Bhilad and Valsad.

Where to stay

There are many hotels and restaurants in Nani Daman.

* Rate at the time of visit may be checked

Best Time to Visit

October to May