For over 450 years, Daman, along with Goa and Dadra and Nagar Haveli were part of the Portuguese empire in India. On 19 December 1961, Daman and the other coastal enclaves of the Arabian Sea were incorporated into the Republic of India.
However, Portugal refused to acknowledge the annexure of Daman and other territories till 1974. Goa, Daman and Diu once was a single union territory (UT) till 1987, when Goa achieved statehood and Daman and Diu remained as a UT.
Daman and Diu are about 10 km apart from each other. Over the years, Daman has been a melting pot of various race and cultures all of whom have forged together to give it a unique multi-coloured identity.
The UT is a paradise of peace and tranquillity and boasts of a coastline that stretches 12.5 km along the Arabian Sea. Daman attracts visitors who wish to commune with nature and rejuvenate in its laid back, friendly ambience. The town is divided by the Damanganga River into Moti Daman (Big Daman) and Nani Daman (Little Daman).
Tourist Places In And Around Daman
Daman is a haven for the nature enthusiasts. With an expansive coastline fronting the Arabian Sea, it is also emerging as a popular beach destination. Jampore Beach, flanked by spectacular groves of Casuarina trees, provides a secluded terrain far from the hectic business life and noise of madding crowd.
Devka Beach, at a distance of about three miles from Nani Daman, is also great for swimming. When the tide is low, you can collect sea shells. Daman also has some interesting amusement and water parks. One such amusement park is located on the Devka Beach and provides a change from the beach atmosphere.
Being a Portuguese colony once, Daman is home to several churches and buildings that bear testimony to the skills of its former colonial rulers. You can visit the Church of Bom Jesus in Moti Daman which is a living example of the superb architectural skills and exquisite craftsmanship of the Portuguese artisans and designers of those times.
The Chapel of Our Lady of Rosary, built by the Portuguese in the 17th century, is one of the oldest religious monuments in Daman. The Portuguese also built several forts to protect themselves from invaders. Fort of St. Jerome and Fort of Daman are both impressive structures that attract several visitors. While in Daman, you can also see the lighthouse.
How To Reach Daman
Daman is easily accessible from nearby cities like Ahmedabad and Mumbai.
Daman Weather
September to May is the best time when one can explore the beauty of Daman.