Road Trip from Pune to Daman and Diu: June 16, 2018
In June 2018, I embarked on a spontaneous road trip from Pune to Daman and Diu. It turned out to be one of the most memorable journeys I’ve ever taken. Here’s a glimpse into the adventure, including the best places to visit and some great hotel recommendations.
The Journey
The drive from Pune to Daman and Diu is approximately 600 km, depending on your route. The journey took around 10 hours by car, with plenty of scenic stops along the way. The route through the Western Ghats offered stunning views, making the long drive enjoyable.
Places to visit in Daman
Daman, a small coastal town in India, offers a mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Here are some top places to visit:
Devka Beach: Known for its serene atmosphere, golden sands, and picturesque views. Perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying the sunset. Features amusement parks and eateries nearby.
Jampore Beach: A calm and clean beach ideal for swimming, picnics, and water sports. Popular for its lush casuarina groves and low tides.
Moti Daman Fort: A historical fort built during Portuguese rule in the 16th century. Features impressive walls, bastions, and a lighthouse. Offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
Nani Daman Fort: Smaller than Moti Daman Fort but equally charming. Houses the Church of Our Lady of the Sea and offers historical insights.
St. Jerome Fort (Nani Daman Fort Entrance): Named after St. Jerome, this fort has a grand gateway and is a blend of history and architecture.
Church of Bom Jesus: A stunning example of Portuguese-style architecture. Known for its intricate woodwork and peaceful ambiance.
Mirasol Lake Garden: A tranquil garden with a man-made lake, paddle boating, and toy train rides. Great for families and nature lovers.
Dominican Monastery: A historical site with ruins of an ancient monastery. Known for its spiritual significance and intricate carvings.
Satya Sagar Udyan: A peaceful garden ideal for a relaxed outing. Located near a lake, adding to its scenic beauty.
Lighthouse: Located near Moti Daman Fort. Provides stunning views of the sea and surrounding areas, especially at sunset.
Sea-Facing Promenade: Perfect for leisurely walks, enjoying the cool breeze and views of the Arabian Sea.
Shopping in Daman Market: Explore local markets for unique items like handmade crafts, souvenirs, and traditional clothing.
Places to visit in Diu
Diu, located on the western coast of India, is a beautiful island with a mix of Portuguese heritage, serene beaches, and natural beauty. Diu offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and leisure activities. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, you’ll find plenty to explore. Here are some must-visit places in Diu:
Nagoa Beach: A crescent-shaped beach ideal for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Perfect for a tranquil sunset view.
Diu Fort: Built by the Portuguese in 1535, this fort offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Features historic cannons, an old lighthouse, and a charming mix of ruins and sea views.
Naida Caves: A natural wonder with intricate rock formations and sunlight streaming through the crevices. Great for photography and exploring.
St. Paul’s Church: A fine example of Baroque architecture built in 1610. Known for its intricate woodwork and serene ambiance.
Jalandhar Beach: A quieter beach compared to Nagoa, with a shrine dedicated to Jalandhar, a mythological demon.
INS Khukri Memorial: A memorial dedicated to the Indian Navy warship INS Khukri that sank during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Features a model of the ship and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Gangeshwar Mahadev Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple has five shivlings washed by the sea waves. Known for its tranquil and spiritual setting.
Diu Museum: Located in an old church, this museum showcases artifacts, antique statues, and stone inscriptions.
Zampa Gateway: A historic gateway with carvings of lions, angels, and a priest. A popular spot for history enthusiasts.
Chakratirth Beach: Offers serene surroundings and is less crowded, making it perfect for solitude seekers.
Ghoghla Beach: One of the largest beaches in Diu, ideal for water sports and picnics.
Food Specialties you should try (Daman)
Daman, like its neighbouring Diu, boasts a unique culinary heritage influenced by Gujarati, Portuguese, and Parsi cultures. Here are some must-try dishes and local specialties in Daman :
Local seafood is a must-try in Daman, with dishes like prawn curry and fish fry being popular. Freshly caught fish prepared with coastal spices is a highlight.
Chicken Cafreal is a flavorful Goan-inspired dish made with marinated chicken in green spices, offering a tangy and spicy taste.
Patra, a vegetarian delicacy made from colocasia leaves and gram flour, is a local favorite often enjoyed as a snack or side dish.
Daman-style biryani combines fragrant rice with a unique mix of spices, meat, or vegetables, reflecting the region’s fusion of flavours.
Aloo Tikki Chaat is a popular street food featuring crispy potato patties topped with tangy chutneys, curd, and spices.
Handvo is a savory Gujarati cake made from rice and lentil batter, flavoured with spices and tempered with mustard seeds.
Bhajiya, deep-fried fritters made from vegetables like onions or potatoes, are perfect for a quick snack, especially with a hot cup of tea.
Khaman Dhokla, a soft and spongy steamed cake made from gram flour, is a light and delicious option to savor.
Daman sweets like jalebi and gulab jamun are a treat for dessert lovers, offering rich, syrupy flavors.
Solkadhi, a refreshing drink made from kokum and coconut milk, is both a palate cleanser and a cooling accompaniment to meals.
Food Specialties you should try (Diu)
Diu is not just a paradise for beach lovers but also a haven for food enthusiasts. The island offers a delightful mix of fresh coastal flavours, Portuguese-inspired dishes, and local Gujarati cuisine. Here’s a glimpse of the culinary treats you can enjoy in Diu:
Fresh Seafood: Being a coastal destination, Diu is renowned for its fresh seafood. You can savour dishes like prawns, crabs, lobsters, and fish curries, often prepared with local spices and coconut-based gravies.
Portuguese Cuisine: Influenced by its colonial past, Diu offers dishes like Vindaloo, Cafreal, and Portuguese-style bread that reflect the blend of Indian and Portuguese flavours.
Fish Curry: A staple in Diu, the fish curry here is typically prepared with tamarind, coconut, and a mix of aromatic spices, offering a tangy and flavorful experience.
Grilled Lobster: Perfectly seasoned and grilled, lobster in Diu is a treat for seafood lovers, often served with garlic butter or local marinades.
Egg Curry: A popular vegetarian-friendly dish, this curry features boiled eggs cooked in a spicy and flavorful gravy, often paired with rice or bread.
Gujarati Thali: For a taste of local vegetarian cuisine, try a Gujarati thali with dishes like dal, sabzi, thepla, and sweet treats like shrikhand.
Bebinca: A Portuguese-inspired dessert, Bebinca is a layered coconut cake with a rich, caramelized flavor, often served as a sweet conclusion to meals.
Chana Masala: This spicy chickpea curry is a favorite street food item, served with soft bread or puris, and is perfect for a quick, filling bite.
Local Samosas and Pakoras: Popular street snacks, samosas and pakoras in Diu are often stuffed with spicy fillings and served with chutneys.
Feni and Local Brews: While not food, the local cashew-based liquor, Feni, and other brews are worth trying for an authentic Diu experience.
Diu’s culinary offerings combine coastal freshness, Portuguese heritage, and local Gujarati flavors, creating a diverse and satisfying food journey.
Daman offers a variety of Accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some options categorised by luxury and mid-level stays, along with their details and map links:
Luxury Hotels:
The Deltin : A luxurious resort featuring spacious rooms, multiple dining options, a spa, and a pool, providing an opulent experience. Address: Varkund, Nani Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: The Deltin
The Gold Beach Resort : Overlooking the Arabian Sea, this resort offers opulent accommodations, stylish dining spots, an outdoor infinity pool, and world-class amenities. Address: Devka Beach Rd, Marwad, Nani Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: The Gold Beach Resort
Mirasol Resort : A 4-star resort known for its excellent service, featuring comfortable rooms, recreational facilities, and proximity to local attractions. Address: Kadaiya Village, Nani Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: Mirasol Resort
Mid-Range Hotels:
Silver Sands Beach Resort : Located near Devka Beach, this resort provides comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and easy beach access, making it a popular mid-range choice. Address: Devka Beach Rd, Nani Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: Silver Sands Beach Resort
Hotel Sovereign : Centrally located, this hotel offers clean rooms and a well-regarded vegetarian restaurant, suitable for families and couples seeking moderate pricing. Address: Sea Face Rd, Nani Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: Hotel Sovereign
Hotel Marina : A boutique hotel with stylish interiors and good amenities, providing a blend of comfort and affordability. Address: Devka Beach Rd, Nani Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: Hotel Marina
Budget-Friendly Hotels:
Hotel Sea Rock Villa : A simple, budget-friendly property located close to the beach, offering basic amenities and a convenient location for cost-conscious travellers. Devka Beach Road, Marwad, Nani Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: Hotel Sea Rock Villa
Hotel Gurukripa : Centrally located with clean and simple rooms, known for its warm hospitality and an on-site restaurant serving local cuisine. Address: Sea Face Road, Nani Daman, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: Hotel Gurukripa
Hotel Hill Top : A no-frills budget hotel offering clean accommodations and a quiet environment, ideal for solo travellers and families. Address: Kadaiya Road, Daman, Daman and Diu 396210, India. Map Link: Hotel Hill Top
Diu offers a variety of Accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some options categorised as luxury, mid-level, and budget-friendly stays:
Luxury Hotels:
Praveg Beach Resort Diu, Ghoghla Beach : A premium resort offering spacious cottages with modern amenities, private beach access, and excellent hospitality. Address: Ghoghla Beach, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: Praveg Beach Resort Diu, Ghoghla Beach
Radhika Beach Resort & Spa : A luxurious resort featuring well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, spa services, and proximity to Nagoa Beach. Address: Nagoa Beach, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: Radhika Beach Resort & Spa
Kostamar Beach Resort : An upscale resort offering modern rooms, an outdoor pool, multi-cuisine restaurant, and easy access to Nagoa Beach. Address: Nagoa Beach, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: Kostamar Beach Resort
Mid-Range Hotels:
The Grand Highness : A well-rated hotel offering comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and convenient access to local attractions. Address: Near Vegetable Market, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: The Grand Highness
Hotel Apaar : A mid-range hotel featuring sea-facing rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and close proximity to the Diu Fort. Address: Bunder Chowk, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: Hotel Apaar
Hotel Ankur : A comfortable hotel offering clean rooms, an in-house restaurant, and a location near the city center. Address: Near Jethibai Bus Stand, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: Hotel Ankur
Budget-Friendly Hotels:
Dream Vision Guest House : An affordable guest house providing basic accommodations, friendly service, and a central location. Address: Near Diu Museum, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: Dream Vision Guest House
Hotel Relax Inn : A budget hotel offering simple rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and easy access to local attractions. Address: Fort Road, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: Hotel Relax Inn
Hotel Laabh : A cost-effective hotel with basic amenities, clean rooms, and a location close to the main market area. Address: Main Bazaar, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India. Map Link: Hotel Laabh
3-day itinerary for exploring Daman and Diu, covering major attractions, leisure activities, and local experiences:
Day 1: Explore Daman
Morning
- Arrive in Daman and check into your hotel. Relax and freshen up.
- Visit Devka Beach, known for its long shoreline and peaceful vibes. Take a stroll or enjoy the sunrise.
- Stop by the Devka Amusement Park (optional), especially if traveling with kids.
Afternoon
- Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try fresh seafood or Gujarati thali for an authentic taste.
- Explore Moti Daman Fort, a Portuguese-era structure with ancient walls and a view of the Arabian Sea.
Evening
- Visit Lighthouse of Daman for scenic views during sunset.
- Head to Jampore Beach for a relaxed evening. You can enjoy camel rides, parasailing, or simply unwind by the shore.
- Dine at a beachside restaurant with local delicacies.
Day 2: Journey to Diu
Morning
- Depart for Diu (approx. 9-hour drive from Daman or 1-hour flight if available).
- Check into your hotel in Diu and freshen up.
Afternoon
- Have lunch at a beachfront café and try Diu’s famous fish curry or prawn masala.
- Visit the Diu Fort, a UNESCO-listed site offering panoramic views of the sea.
- Explore Naida Caves, a network of fascinating natural rock formations with stunning light and shadow play.
Evening
- Relax at Nagoa Beach, perfect for swimming and enjoying water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides.
- End your day with a quiet dinner at a local resort or restaurant.
Day 3: Sightseeing in Diu
Morning
- Visit Ghoghla Beach, known for its tranquility and less crowded ambiance. Enjoy a morning walk or sunbathe here.
- Head to St. Paul’s Church, an architectural marvel reflecting Portuguese influence.
- Explore Diu Museum, housed in an old church, showcasing local history and artifacts.
Afternoon
- Have lunch at a local eatery, sampling Portuguese-inspired dishes like Bebinca or Vindaloo.
- Visit INS Khukri Memorial, dedicated to the naval warship that sank during the Indo-Pak War of 1971.
Evening
- Take a leisurely stroll along Chakratirth Beach, a serene spot for unwinding.
- End your trip with dinner at a beachside café or resort, enjoying fresh seafood or a cozy vegetarian meal.
Traveling from Pune to Daman and Diu offers a journey through diverse landscapes along India’s western coast. Here’s an overview of the routes and transportation options:
Pune to Daman:
Distance: Approximately 305 kilometers by road.
Travel Time: Around 4 to 5 hours by car.
Route: The most common route is via NH48, passing through cities like Mumbai and Vapi.
Transportation Options:
By Car: Driving offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views along the way.
By Bus: Several private and state-run buses operate between Pune and Daman, with an average journey time of about 5 to 6 hours.
By Train: There isn’t a direct train from Pune to Daman. Travellers can take a train to Vapi and then a taxi or local transport to Daman.
Pune to Diu:
Distance: Approximately 951 kilometers by road.
Travel Time: Around 17 to 18 hours by car.
Route: The typical route is via NH48 and NH251, passing through cities like Mumbai, Surat, and Bhavnagar.
Transportation Options:
By Car: Ideal for those who enjoy long drives and wish to explore en route.
By Flight: Currently, there are no direct flights from Pune to Diu. Travelers can consider flights to nearby airports like Rajkot or Bhavnagar, followed by a road journey to Diu.
By Train: No direct trains are available. One can travel to Veraval by train and then take a taxi or bus to Diu.
Combined Trip:
For travellers planning to visit both Daman and Diu:
Pune to Daman: Start with the shorter journey to Daman.
Daman to Diu: After exploring Daman, proceed to Diu. The distance between Daman and Diu is approximately 650 kilometers, with a travel time of about 12 to 13 hours by road.
Diu to Pune: Conclude the trip by returning to Pune from Diu, covering approximately 951 kilometers.
Map and Directions:
For detailed maps and turn-by-turn directions, you can use online mapping services like Google Maps. Simply enter your starting point and destination to receive the most accurate and up-to-date routes.
Total Budget Estimate
| Category | Cost (Per Person) |
| Transportation | ₹2,000–₹3,000 |
| Accommodation | ₹3,000–₹5,500 |
| Food | ₹1,500–₹2,500 |
| Sightseeing/Activities | ₹200–₹500 |
Grand Total: ₹6,700–₹11,500 per person for 3 days.
This budget allows you to explore Daman and Diu comfortably while staying economical!
Here are some essential tips to make your trip to Daman and Diu smooth and enjoyable:
- For a memorable trip to Daman and Diu, plan your visit between October and March when the weather is pleasant. Avoid the monsoon season (June–September) and book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Consider adding activities like cycling tours in Diu or heritage walks in Daman for a deeper cultural experience. Explore historical sites like Diu Fort, Moti Daman Fort, and St. Jerome Fort, along with beautiful churches like St. Paul’s Church to admire Portuguese architecture.
- For beach fun, head to Jampore Beach in Daman and Nagoa Beach in Diu for water sports like parasailing, jet-skiing, and banana boat rides. Always swim in designated areas and stay hydrated, especially under the hot sun.
- Enjoy the local cuisine with fresh seafood like fish curry, crab masala, and prawn vindaloo, along with Portuguese-inspired dishes and Gujarati snacks like dhokla and theplas.
- Shop for souvenirs like seashell jewelry, local handicrafts, and Portuguese wine in local markets. Support local businesses by buying handmade items and hiring local guides for sightseeing.
- Travel around using auto-rickshaws or rent a bike/car for flexibility. Pack light with comfortable clothes, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to stay cool. Keep your valuables safe with a secure pouch or backpack, especially on beaches.
- Carry some cash as small eateries and shops may not accept cards, and save local emergency numbers for police and hospitals. Mobile networks are generally good, though remote areas may have patchy coverage.
- Lastly, help keep the environment clean by carrying a bag for your trash and avoid littering at tourist spots. This itinerary blends culture, history, and leisure, making your trip to Daman and Diu unforgettable!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have a hassle-free and memorable trip to Daman and Diu!
TRAVEL AND HEAL 