Daman

Situated on the west coast of India close to the Arabian sea and sitting on the banks of the Daman - Ganga river, Daman is a quiet, picturesque town. It had been a Portuguese enclave for more than 4 centuries, and was earlier called Damao. Located very close to Mumbai, it is an easy and ideal getaway for city dwellers. It offers a lot to all - sunbather, beachcombers, sight - seers, swimmers, monument lovers, and shoppers. There are gentle winds, coconut groves, majestic forts, historic churches, and friendly people. The population consists of Hindus, Christians, Muslims, and Parsees.

ACCESS

The nearest railhead to Daman is Vapi (12 km), and is only 168 km from Mumbai (by rail). Daman is about 190 km by road from Mumbai on the National Highway No.8.

PLACES OF INTEREST

Fort of Moti Daman is a formidable fortress on the river Daman Ganga. The fort was built in the second half of the 16th century and is spread over 30,000 sq m. It is protected by a moat on the land side which also connects the river to the sea.

Fort of St Jerome, Nani Daman was constructed by the 20th Portuguese Viceroy of India, Dom Jeronimo de Azevado, after a spell of destruction in the Mughal invasion. Situated on the northern bank of Daman Ganga, it was started in 1614 AD and completed in 1627 AD. The fort is small with an area of 12,250 sq m, and the imposing church of Our Lady of the Sea is the principal building within its ramparts.

Church of Bom Jesus is one of the most impressive holy places in Daman. This 17th century Church of Bom Jesus, which was completed in 1603 AD displays exquisite Portuguese architecture in its ornate doorway and the lofty ceiling. Its fine statues follow the Roman Church art and architectural styles. Although during the Portuguese times it was a parish church, it now attracts both tourists and pilgrims in large numbers.

Church of the Lady of Dolorous dates back to the 16th century and has outstanding architectural features of the Gothic and Byzantian style. It has a wide hall of prayer and beautiful carved figures.

Catholic Church at Nani Daman located inside the Fort of Nani Daman, has a fine altar and superb panelling. The Fort walls girdle the Church and wide steps lead to the ramparts. The Church is one of the ancient seats of office.

The Beaches of Daman like Devka and Nani Daman offer facilities of recreation to the tourist. There are beach resorts conveniently located. An amusement park at Devka has multicoloured fountains. Jampore Beach is ideal for a quiet holiday. It is a safe beach for swimming and the Department of Tourism has provided sun-shades, picnic platforms and benches.

Daman also has a number of places of pilgrimage and worship. some of the prominent ones being the Somnath Temple, Ram Mandir, Satyanarayan Mandir, Vishwakarma Temple, Yogeshwar Temple, Jain Devasan, Parsee Fire Temple, Khoja Khana, Jama Masjid, Noorani Masjid, Zapabar Masjid, Our Lady of Rosary Chapel, Our Lady of the Sea Church and Our Lady of Remedies.

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Sandy Resort, Devka Beach, Daman-396 210. Phone: 2751.

Hotel Miramar, Devka Beach, Daman-396 210. Phone: 2471, 2971.

Dariya Darshan Hotel, Devka Beach, Daman-396 210. Phone: 2288, 2476.

Hotel Summer House, Devka Beach, Daman-396 210. Phone: 2474.

Hotel Ashok Palace, Devka Beach, Daman-396 210. Phone: 2239.

Hotel Shilton, Devka Beach, Daman-396 210. Phone: 2558.

Hotel Duke, Devka Beach, Daman-396 210. Phone: 2251.

Hotel Sagar Sun, Daman-396 210.

Rahee Guest House, Marwad Road, Devka Beach, Daman-396 210. Phone: 2250.

Hotel China Town, Moti Daman-396 210. Phone: 2416, 2780.

Hotel Sukh Sagar, Navi Ori, Nani Daman. Phone: 2589, 2889.

Hotel Gurukrupa, Seaface Road, Daman. Phone: 2846, 2447.

Daman also has a Government Rest House, where accommodation can be the made in advance.