Tourism in Daman and Diu is concentrated with the colonial architectures and here the society is totally influenced by the Portuguese culture. There are a number of places of leisure tourism in Daman. These range from places of historical interest, such as forts of later Mughal and Portuguese era, to gardens, sea beaches to the eco tourism areas, Jain temples and Hindu temples.
Temples of Daman and Diu
Somnath Mahadev Temple, Gangeshwar temple and Cave Temple at Nagoa Beach are the popular temples in Daman and Diu.
Fort of Moti Daman
Fort of Moti Daman is a massive fort that runs around the settlement like a girdle. Dating back to 1559 AD, Fort of Moti Daman encompasses a space of about 30,000 square meters. With a total of ten bastions and two gateways, the fort is protected by a moat on the land side and also connects the river to the sea. It is basically polygonal in plan with projections at regular intervals of about 500 feet and carrying splayed angular bastions. The inscription above the southern (land) gate mentions that this gate along with the bastions adjacent to it was completed in 1581 A.D. after the Mughal invasion in Akbar`s reign. The inscription on the Northern (sea) gate gives the date of 1593 A.D. for the completion of the fort wall. A large number of Portuguese gentry and their families resided within the fort.
Fort of Nani Daman
Fort of Nani Daman is a small fort with high stone walls encloses an area of 12,250 sq. meters. The most conspicuous part of Nani Daman Fort is the giant gateway facing the river with a large statue of St. Jerome and two giant human figures, on either side of the gateway. The imposing church of Our Lady of the Sea is the principal building within the Fort.
Nani Daman
Nani Daman offers some wonderful sites to the city and the water body. The Gandhi Park near Nani Daman jetty, Nani Daman Fort and the church inside and the fishing jetty where boats are anchored to name a few. The tourist crosses over to Moti Daman through the Damanganga River and there one can see the light house, gardens, historic monuments and the medieval churches.
Kadaiya Lake Garden
Kadaiya Lake Garden is offering a variety of cuisine and it is popular place for hangout. The fountains and beautiful boats add to the remarkable greenery which can be seen in every direction. The garden is also a famous spot for many film shootings. There are number of adventure sports that can be enjoyed at Mirasol Water Park situated within the Kadaiya Lake Garden.
Jetty Garden, Nani Daman
This is a beautifully designed riverside garden located at the bank of Damanganga River. The garden offers an attractive fountain, fun rides for children, river-facing seating and a cool green lawn.
Devika Beach
Devika Beach is furnished with the beautiful and well tended amusement park near the sea beach. There located a musical fountain and kid`s corner, which have become very popular, attracting bus loads of tourists every weekend. When the park is illuminated on festive days, it provides an enchanting sight.
Jampore Beach
Jampore Beach leads on to the border of Gujarat. It is a pleasant spot, where one communes with nature in sublime solitude. This beach is most suited for swimming.
