HOME DESTINATIONS Gir
Diu Island
Visit the pristine island of Diu to experience its ultimate natural beauty. It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the country.
When in Gir, don’t miss Diu, a beautiful tiny island with a coastal length of 21 Kms in the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. It is best known as a place that mixes tradition with modernity, which is evident in its architecture, with a number of historical monuments and structures. Diu is mainly known for its white sand beaches. Most famous of the beaches is Nagoa beach. Other beaches are Ghogla, Jallandhar, Chakratirth, and Gomtimata. Adventure water sports are quite popular at the beaches.
The Diu fort is the most visited landmark in the district. The fort and the Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa were chosen as the two wonders from India, among the seven from across the world, out of a list of 27 monuments built in 16 countries during the Portuguese rule.
There are three Portuguese Baroque churches, with St. Paul’s Church, completed in 1610, being the only one still in use for its intended purpose. The Church of St. Francis of Assisi is now used as a hospital and St. Thomas' Church is used as a museum.
Naida Caves are near Jalandhar Beach. The origin of the caves remains a mystery but it is believed that they were formed either by geological forces or by quarrying done by the Portuguese.
There is a dinosaur park with life-sized dinosaur structures and large play area for children right on the bay. There is also a bird watching sanctuary, a sea shell Museum, a summerhouse and Lovers' Point.
Another unique specialty of Diu is the Hoka trees - a type of palm tree not found in any other part of India.
Good to Know:
Location: 98 km from Sterling Rudra Gir. Diu is linked to the mainland by a bridge.
Unlike Gujarat, which is a dry state, alcohol is served in Diu.
Other Attractions
Gir National Park
1 hrThe only place in India where you can see the Asiatic Lion in the wild, a trip to the Gir National Park is a must do for wildlife lovers.
Somnath Temple
3 hrOften called the Pride of Gujarat, it is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus in India. It is believed to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva.
Kamleshwar Dam
1 hrKnown for its population of birds and mugger crocodiles, Kameshwar Dam is a sight to behold in Gir.
Durbar Hall Museum
2 hrsThe former palace of the Nawab of Junagadh has since been converted into a museum housing the prized possessions of the Junagadh Nawabs.
Uparkot Fort
2 hrsOne of the most interesting forts in Gujarat, the Uparkot Fort is said to have once withstood a 12-year siege. The fort is also famous for 2 stepwells – Adi Kadi Vav and Navghan Kuvo and the nearby Uparkot Caves, which are a part of the Junagadh Buddhist Cave Groups.
Girnar Hill
3 hrsAn ancient hill near the town of Junagadh, Girnar is famous for more than just the spectacular views. Come and discover the Ashoka edicts, Asia’s longest ropeway, and the Girnar Jain Temples.
Kankai Mata Temple
2hrsSituated deep in the heart of the Gir Forest, the Kankai Mata temple is steeped in legend, and is a major holy site for Hindu pilgrims.
Mahabat Maqbara Complex
3 hrMahabat Maqbara and Bahauddin Maqbra are mausoleums in Junagadh that are known for their amalgamation of Indo-Islamic, Gothic and European styles of architecture.
Sarkeshwar Beach
2 hrsBordering Junagadh and the neighbouring city of Amereli, Sarkeshwar Beach is a great place not just for relaxing by the beach but for some fun-filled water sports and activities too.
Madhavpur Beach
2 hrA sandy coastline, endowed with coconut trees, Madhavpur Beach is one of the most treasured beaches of Gujarat. The long shoreline and minimal commercial activity make this a must-visit beach in Gujarat.
Tulsi Shyam Temple and Springs
3 hrKnown particularly for its great scenic beauty, Tulsi Shyam Temple is a tourist center that is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple has beautiful hot water springs which are referred to as ‘Taptodak’ in the Puranas.