About Dadra and Nagar Tourism

A unique blend of coastal serenity and lush inland forests, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu is a Union Territory formed by the merger of two formerly separate UTs. Nestled between Gujarat, Maharashtra, and the Arabian Sea, this destination offers a distinctive mix of Portuguese colonial heritage, tribal culture, tranquil beaches, and green hillscapes.

The territory comprises four distinct geographical areas:

1. Daman – a coastal town with Portuguese architecture and popular beaches.
   
   
2. Diu – a scenic island known for forts, caves, and laid-back charm.
   
   
3. Dadra – a small enclave near Vapi.
   
   
4. Nagar Haveli – a forested region filled with tribal villages and nature parks.
   
   

From historical churches and forts to picturesque beaches and wildlife sanctuaries, this Union Territory offers something for everyone—heritage, nature, adventure, and peace.

October to March:

• Best time to explore with pleasant weather.
  
  
• Ideal for beach visits, sightseeing, and cultural events.
  
  

April to June:

• Hot and humid, but early mornings and evenings are suitable for activities.
  
  
• Less crowded and offers off-season travel deals.
  
  

July to September:

• Monsoon season brings greenery, especially in Nagar Haveli.
  
  
• Scenic drives and nature treks are rewarding.
  
  

By Air:

• Nearest airport: Diu Airport (limited flights to Mumbai).
  
  
• Surat and Mumbai airports serve Daman and Dadra/Nagar Haveli.
  
  

By Train:

• Nearest railway stations: Vapi (for Daman and Dadra), Delwada (for Diu).
  
  
• Good connectivity to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and other major cities.
  
  

By Road:

• Well-connected by highways to Mumbai, Surat, and Ahmedabad.
  
  
• Regular buses and taxis available.
  
  

Daman

1. Devka Beach:

• Popular for its black sand and evening strolls.
  
  
• Amusement park and musical fountains nearby.
  
  

2. Jampore Beach:

• Quiet and clean, ideal for swimming and horse rides.
  
  
• Local food stalls and sea-facing shacks.
  
  

3. Fort of Moti Daman:

• 16th-century Portuguese fort with churches and government offices.
  
  
• Great for history lovers and photography.
  
  

4. Dominican Monastery:

• Ruins of an ancient church with colonial architecture.
  
  
• Spiritual and historic ambiance.
  
  

5. Bom Jesus Church:

• Beautiful interiors and a 17th-century heritage.
  
  

Diu

6. Diu Fort:

• Massive sea-facing fort built by the Portuguese.
  
  
• Offers panoramic views, lighthouse, and historical exhibits.
  
  

7. Nagoa Beach:

• Crescent-shaped beach ideal for swimming and water sports.
  
  
• Resorts and shacks available.
  
  

8. Ghoghla Beach:

• Clean and less crowded; good for family outings.
  
  

9. Naida Caves:

• Natural and man-made caves with stunning light patterns.
  
  
• Popular among photographers and explorers.
  
  

10. St. Paul’s Church:

• Finest example of Baroque architecture in India.
  
  

11. INS Khukri Memorial:

• A tribute to the Indian Navy ship sunk in the 1971 war.
  
  

12. Sea Shell Museum:

• Private collection of over 2500 species of sea shells.
  
  

Dadra and Nagar Haveli

13. Vanganga Lake Garden:

• Japanese-style garden with lake, pedal boats, and bridges.
  
  

14. Hirwa Van Garden:

• Family-friendly park with water features and sculptures.
  
  

15. Tribal Cultural Museum:

• Showcases the tribal heritage of Nagar Haveli.
  
  

16. Lion Safari Wildlife Park (Satmaliya):

• Spot lions, leopards, deer, and peacocks.
  
  

17. Dudhni Lake:

• Known as the “Kashmir of the West”.
  
  
• Offers houseboat rides, kayaking, and camping.
  
  

18. Bindrabin Temple:

• Beautiful Shiva temple along the Damanganga River.
  
  

1. Heritage Walks:

• Explore Portuguese churches, forts, and colonial streets in Daman and Diu.
  
  

2. Beach Activities:

• Try parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and camel carts.
  
  

3. Boating in Dudhni Lake:

• Enjoy peace and views of forest-covered hills.
  
  

4. Tribal Encounters:

• Visit tribal villages, observe traditional lifestyle, and buy handicrafts.
  
  

5. Attend Festivals:

• Navratri and Nariyal Poornima are celebrated with music and dance.
  
  

6. Bird Watching:

• Watch migratory birds around the wetlands and lake areas.
  
  

7. Try Local Cuisine:

• Fresh seafood, Gujarati snacks, and Daman-Diu specialties like Fish Curry and Ros Omelet.
  
  

8. Camping and Bonfire Nights:

• Arrange lakeside camping at Dudhni.
  
  

9. Yoga and Nature Walks:

• Many gardens and parks are ideal for wellness seekers.
  
  

10. Photography:

• Capture historic ruins, sunsets, street scenes, and tribal life.

Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu may not be as famous as other tourist states, but it offers a rare blend of old-world charm and natural serenity. With its unspoiled beaches, lush inland escapes, colonial-era monuments, and tribal richness, this Union Territory is an emerging favorite among offbeat travelers.

Whether you’re here to relax on the beaches of Diu, explore the colonial heritage of Daman, or connect with nature in Nagar Haveli, your trip promises diversity, depth, and memorable experiences.

Visit Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu—a destination that’s tranquil, rich in history, and still largely undiscovered.