Daman is a striking place, blessed completely by Mother Nature. Boasting history of over 2000 years, Daman is a wonderful destination for tourists to settle on. It would be no embellishment to say that a trip to the earlier Portuguese enclave can be absolutely revitalizing for anyone. Visited by tourists round the year, Daman is a complete package together with serene sun-kissed beaches, impregnable forts, magnificent churches, picturesque surroundings and great culture. It is just right place; you’re looking for to relax and unwind yourself amidst stunningly beautiful environs. Once seen, it’s for sure that you would be enthralled by its matchless beauty amidst sun, sand and sea.
Image: By Rachna 13 (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Daman Tourist Attractions
Comprising numerous tourist attractions, Daman truly bewitches the onlooker with its tranquil beaches, well laid-out parks and stunning surrounds.
Jampore Beach
The best deal for swimmers, Jampore Beach is exceptionally striking and completely free from any danger. If you only want to sit and enjoy the golden tan, then also, you have come at the right place. During low tides, a walk on the silky sands of the beach would leave you ecstatic. Casurina plantation near the sea-shore is another place not to be missed.
Fort Moti Daman
Rising out of a moat, Moti Daman Fort is designed in a polygonal shape with projections at regular intervals of about 500 feet. The fort is an architectural masterpiece, where every thing has been carefully planned to make the fort absolutely impregnable. Provided with loop holes, the parapet exceeding the fortifications is lacking merlons. The terraces over the fortresses are connected to the inner ground surface by open staircases.
Fort Nani Daman
Covering an area of 12,250 sq meters, Nani Daman Fort is a small one comprised of high stone walls. ‘Our Lady of the Sea’, an impressive church, lies within this fort. The two gateways and three bastions characterize this marvelous fort. Facing the river, a huge gateway along with a giant statue of St. Jerome is the prominent part of Nani Daman. Besides the fort, some other marvelous sites located nearby worth-seeing are Gandhi Park, Nani Daman Jetty and Fishing Jetty.
Kadiaya Lake Garden
Lake, fountains, cafeteria, bridges, boats and lush greenery describe this striking man-made garden. Wherever you see, you’ll find greenery at its best. Boating in the glittering lake could never be so exciting, as it can be here. You can enjoy lip-smacking cuisine at the cafeteria, while enjoying the refreshing vista of the garden. The interesting location and breathtaking beauty of this place attract many film-producers to shoot here.
Bom Jesus Church
Excellent specimen of Portuguese architecture, Bom Jesus Church was constructed in 1603 AD. The intricate carvings and works of embellishment show the dexterity of architects and artisans, who made efforts to craft this amazing edifice. The splendidly carved doorway and interiors, in addition to lofty ceiling, captures the interest of even a casual spectator. During the period of Portuguese rule, it was a parish church.
Accommodation at Daman
Daman is a prosperous destination on the tourist map of India. With tourists from all over the world coming here, Daman has become a host to numerous hotels, guesthouses and resorts. Daman hotels spare no efforts to serve their guests with hospitality. Dotted with all facilities, hotels in Daman strive to make your trip all the more enjoyable. For the budget travelers too there are many decent options.
How to Reach Daman
By Air
Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport at Mumbai is the nearest airport to Daman. Both national and international flights can be availed from here. To cover the further distance, you can hire taxis from Mumbai.
By Rail
Approximately 12 kms from Daman, Vapi is the nearest railhead which falls on the main railway line between Delhi and Mumbai. Valsad Junction is another railhead at a distance of 35 kms. From both the stations, taxis can be hired to reach Daman.
By Road
Daman is connected via Vapi to the National Highway No. 8 that connects Mumbai to Ahmedabad. It lies at a distance of 193 kms and 367 kms from Mumbai and Ahmedabad respectively.