Diu Fort
About
Diu Fort, built between 1535 and 1541 by the Portuguese, covers the eastern tip of the island with three-tiered defensive walls and 86 cannons still mounted on the ramparts. Views stretch across the Arabian Sea and back over the old town. The fort has a small lighthouse, a Portuguese-era chapel, and extensive underground tunnels (now blocked to visitors for safety). It's open to the public and largely unmaintained, giving an atmospheric rather than manicured experience.
Highlights
What makes this place special
Cannon Ramparts
86 original 16th-century Portuguese cannons still mounted along the fort's outer walls which are the largest colonial-era cannon collection in India.
Sea-Facing Bastion
The eastern bastion projects into the Arabian Sea, with 180-degree ocean views that are atmospheric at sunset when the walls glow orange.
Things to Know
- •Open 8 AM to 6 PM
- •Free entry
- •Rampart walks require careful footing
- •Carry water
- •Best at sunset
