Moti Daman Fort is one of the key places to visit in Daman, built by the Portuguese between 1559 and 1581 as the center of colonial administration. The fort has a pentagonal layout with 10 bastions, a wide moat, and the original governor’s palace inside its walls. Within the fort complex are three important Portuguese-era churches that are still active today, including Bom Jesus (1559), Our Lady of the Rosary (1559), and Our Lady of the Sea. These heritage structures are among the top attractions in Daman. Visitors can walk along the fort ramparts for free and explore the old settlement inside, where narrow lanes still feature 17th to 18th century Portuguese-style bungalows that are actively used. This mix of history and everyday life makes it one of the most interesting things to do in Daman while exploring the old town area.

What makes this place special

A 1559 Portuguese Baroque church with a gilded wooden altar and six side chapels, it stands as one of the oldest surviving European churches on India’s west coast. This historic site is counted among the top attractions in Daman for heritage and architecture lovers.

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The pentagonal fort wall of Moti Daman Fort features 10 bastions and a wide moat and remains largely intact today. Walking along the full perimeter takes about an hour, making it one of the most interesting things to do in Daman.