Diu

Diu is a small island in the Arabian Sea off the southern coast of Diu Gujarat, functioning as a Union Territory along with Daman and Dadra and Nagar Haveli. Covering about 40 square kilometres, Diu India was a Portuguese colony from 1535 until 1961, even longer than Goa, which explains its strong Lusophone character. Visitors exploring Diu tourism encounter whitewashed churches, colonial forts, pastel Mediterranean style houses, and a relaxed coastal rhythm. The imposing Diu Fort, constructed in 1535 to guard Portuguese trade routes, dominates the eastern shoreline. St Paul’s Church with its ornate Baroque altar and the nearby Diu Museum housed in the former Church of St Thomas add to the historic appeal. Popular stretches of Diu beach such as Nagoa, Ghoghla, and Jallandhar offer clear waters and scenic views, while the town serves excellent Portuguese influenced seafood. Though connected to the mainland by a bridge from Una, the island retains a distinct identity, sometimes leading first time visitors to ask whether Diu country is separate, when it is very much part of India.