Diu ~ India Famous Places


Diu

Visit To Diu

Diu - A beautiful tiny island, lies on the west coast of India, with a coastal length of 21 kms. the word Diu is derived from the sanskrit word Dweep, which means an island. Diu was one of the best seaports and a naval base between the 14th and the 16th century. The 11kms long and 3kms wide island of Diu, off the southern tip of Kathaiawad peninsula has a fascinating history and some superb beaches. It has a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. the palce is for many the highlight of Gujarat with its relaxed pace of life, Portuguese architecture, huge forts and quite beaches.

Like Daman and Goa, Diu was a portuguese colony until it was taken over by India in 1961. Along with Daman, it is still governed from Delhi as a Union Territory rather than as a part of Gujarat. The former colony includes the island of Diu, about 13 kms long by 3kms wide, separated from the coast by a narrow channel. In 1987, its administration was separated from Goa which then became a state - Diu remains a Union Territory. With its attractively ornamented buildings with balconies and the town has more of a portuguese flavour than Daman. There are also two tiny mainland enclaves. One of these, where the village of Ghoghla stands, is the entry point to Diu from Una and some nice quite sandy beaches outside the town near Sunset point. The branching palms are also very much in evidence.

The island's main industry is fishing followed by booze and salt. Kalpana Distillery at Malala produces rum from sugarcane. The northern side of the island, facing Gujarat is tidal marsh and saltpans while the southern coast alternates between limestone cliffs, rocky coves and sandy beaches. The fishing village of Ghoghla on the mainland was also part of Diu. the north side of the island has been subjected to marine deposition, so there are saltpans and marshes. The south coast has some fine limestone cliffs.

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