Diu - India ...
A beautiful blend of sea, sand and sun, Diu is a God's gift to those in quest of a blessed land where the weary weight of this unintelligible world can, for a while, be lightened and the waking soul can hear the music of the nature. This tiny island of breeze, beauty and serenity situated off the southern tip of the Saurashtra (Kathiawad) peninsula of Gujarat, lapped by the Arabian Sea, is a picture of calmness with superb beaches and a fascinating history.
Diu was ruled by many well-known kings and dynasties during the prehistoric, ancient and medieval times. It was a Portuguese colony until 1961. It is now a Union Territory, separated from Goa in 1987.It was an important trading post and naval base from where the rulers controlled the shipping routes in the northern part of the Arabian Sea between the 14-16th centuries.
With an area of 38.8 sq. km., and a coastline of 21 km, the island of Diu is separated from the coast by a narrow channel on the north. Of the two tiny mainland enclaves, Ghoghla is the entry point to Diu if you arrive through Una, a town in Saurashtra. The branching palms, popularly known as Hoka trees, introduce from Africa by the Portuguese and coconut palms swaying and whispering in the gentle intoxicating sea breeze extend a fascinating welcome to the visitors in Diu. The climate of Diu is pleasant throughout the year. It has sunny weather throughout the year and the annual rainfall is only 60 cms.
The ethnic mosaic comprises Hindus, Muslims and Christians. The colourful culture of this island is a mix of Kathiawadi (Saurashtra) culture blended with Portuguese legacy. Main languages spoken in the district are Gujarati, Hindi, English and Portuguese.
The historical Portuguese Fort, imposing churches, the golden sand beaches, blue sea waters, latest water sports, clean environment and friendly local population make Diu a perfect getaway for all seasons. It has excellent all weather road links with Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Bhavnagar and Vadodara. It also has daily air link (except Saturday) with Mumbai. Veraval the nearest railhead (90 Km) is connected to Ahmedabad.
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