Things to do in Daman and diu

The beautiful cathedral, Bom Jesus Church, designed according to 16th-century architecture is a popular destination in the area. Built-in Moti Daman region of the union territory, the construction of the place started during the mid 16th century and ended in the early 17th century. During the Portuguese rule, this place was used as a parish church dedicated to infant Jesus. The beautiful structure of the building, with craved interiors, is quite eye-catching. The intricately carved interiors, coupled with the wooden gateways have still not lost their beauty. Inside the church, there are 6 statues of Catholic saints add another dimension to the appeal of the church.

Initially, Portuguese used Bom Jesus Church as a parish church. This church is visited by both devotees and tourists, who want to pay their respect to the Bom Jesus (the infant Jesus).

The Dominican Monastery was once an important theological center but currently it is in ruins. No one knows how this important place once visited by renowned scholars came to this condition. Located inside the Daman Fort, this place is currently maintained by the ASI. Finding the location of the monastery could be a little tricky. For tourist’s assistance, a map has been installed in the front of the Daman Fort gate marking the important historical places inside the premises. The installed map can help locate the monastery as well as the other venues within the vicinity of the fort.
The decorated alter with craved floral motifs is the only thing left of this glorious and beautiful monastery. Interestingly, it still attracts Catholic devotees and tourists alike, who come here to experience the peace and serenity of the location.

Visit the beautiful ruins is a must for every tourist in Daman. The well-manicured gardens and lawns provide an interesting contrast to the ruins making the area look more charming. On the way to Dominican Monastery, tourists will come across the beautiful statue of the Our Lady of Purification on the landside gate of the fort. On the 3rd December of each year, a public mass is held in the honor of St. Dominic. The mass is attended by the Catholic devotees and tourists alike. Also, on 2nd February each year, Catholics come here to sing litany and praise the lord.

The old ruins can be a stunning subject of photography. The eye-catching ruins are a suitable destination for sightseeing. This place is ideal for history buffs as well as devoted Catholics who want to experience some spiritual enlightenment.

The beautiful Fort Jerome, or the Nani Daman Fort as the locals call, is one of the most popular historical monuments of Daman and Diu region. It is an ancient citadel that provides a glimpse into the history of Daman and Diu. Located in a picturesque point, where Daman Ganga River meets the Arabian Sea, the fort was built to protect the Portuguese against any Mughal invasion. The construction of the fort was started by Dom Jeronimo de Azevedo, the then Viceroy of Portuguese India. Spread in the area of 12,250 sq. meters, this small fort has three bastions and two decorated gates, which are still standing. From the fort, tourists can have a great view of the Arabian Sea as well as the Daman Ganga River.

Inside the complex, there are beautiful cemetery, church, and ruins built by the Portuguese. A lovely statue of St. Jerome is placed outside the church welcoming the tourists inside. The brilliantly decorated gateways are one of the most stunning features of the church. The Lady of the Sea Church located inside the fort is another magnificent building here.

Visiting the churches within the fort complex is a must for the tourists. From the several vantage points of the fort, tourists can watch the surrounding areas. Fort Jerome is an attractive place suitable for photography sessions.

The beautiful black sand beach surrounded by palm and casuarinas, Jampore Beach is suitable for a day or a weekend trip. The history of the region is dominated by the Portuguese colonizers who ruled the nearby areas for around 400 years. Jampore Beach is one of the popular tourist spots of Daman and Diu, and is frequented by tourists. The beach is just 3 km away from the Moti Daman Fort, making it suitable for the tourists to come here and relax by sightseeing after a hectic day.

Taking horse or camel ride on the beach is must and is appreciated by kids. Jampore Beach is safe for swimming and beach sports. One can find tourists indulging in small picnics or simply relaxing on the beach beds. Eating from the small cabins selling fresh sea catches is a must. Sunset on the Jampore beach is very charming and worth a view.

As the water is free from the undercurrents tourists can go swimming. Also, taking part in the camel and horse rides is a must. From small shacks, tourists can buy locals drinks and snacks made from local produces. Photography can be done here.

In the backyard of the Moti Daman region, Portuguese built this fort in the year 1559. Spread in the area of 30,000 sq feet, this place was used as a base for the Portuguese colonizers. Initially, this place was controlled by an Abyssinian Chief, who had set up a Muslim bastion here. The Portuguese won over the area for constructing the fort for their settlement. The Portuguese were keen on protecting the site from invasion, and it can be seen from the architecture of the monument. The deep trenches, bastions, and gateways made it secured from outside invasion. The flights of stairs that connect the terrace to the inner grounds were added as another security feature. These measures made this fort almost impregnable and safer for the settlement. The fort now is being used as a secretariat and other official buildings.

The marvelous architecture of the Portuguese can be seen in the venue. The polygonal structure of the fort, as well as different security features used, make this place an architectural marvel. Visitors can visit Convent of the Dominicans, and The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary which is home to several tombstones of the Portuguese who died here during the days of the colonization. The altar of the church is done with intricately carved wooden panels, making them stunning.

Exploring the different parts of the fort is a must for adventurous tourists. The panoramic view from the terrace of the fort is worth a watch. Good place for photography lovers.