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Naida Caves is located on the outskirts of Diu Fort’s Zampa Gateway which is a historical site from the Portuguese colonial period. As it has been reported during the time of rule Portuguese pirates and smugglers took refuge in these caves. They also served as a safe for the Indian Army during Operation Vijay aimed at liberating Diu from Portuguese rule. These caves provide a captivating experience for tourists. They are home to amazing tunnels, audacious rock shapes and holes through these openings natural light penetrates; hence, the caves effortlessly qualify as photographic sanctuaries and naturalists’ paradises.
Location
Photo: Radhi.pandit / Wikimedia Commons
Naida Caves can be found just outside the Zampa Gateway of Diu Fort in the Union Territory of Diu. They are positioned on the Arabian Sea, not far from Diu town. The caves are simple to get to from the main Diu town and are located just a kilometer away from the Diu Bus Stand.
How To Reach
Photo: Josh Nezon / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Diu Airport, which is located approximately six kilometers away from the caves, is the nearest airport to Naida Caves. Mumbai and Ahmedabad, which are important cities, have flights to Diu Airport. Once you arrive at Diu Airport, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to Naida Caves. The journey lasts about 15-20 minutes.
By Train: Diu is situated around 65 kilometers away from the nearest railway station, which is Somnath railway station. This station is located 65 km away from Diu. You can hire a taxi from Somnath or take a local bus that takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive.
By Road: Diu has a bus stand connecting with significant towns like Surat, Rajkot and Ahmedabad. Frequent state-run and private buses operate here. From Diu Bus Station, Naida Caves are merely 1 km away. You can take a walk, get in a local auto-rickshaw or hire a taxi to the caves.
Places To Visit Around Naida Caves
The Naida Caves boast breathtaking rock formations, and multitudes of passageways and chambers, all of which are tinged with a deep history.
1. Diu Fort
Photo: JediPro / Wikimedia Commons
Diu Fort, built during the 16th century by the Portuguese, is situated at the center of Diu town. The fort’s high walls and bastions have marvelous views of the Arabian Sea. It contains St.Paul’s Church- one of the finest examples of Portuguese architecture. In addition, it has underground prisons and granaries as well as the Diu Museum that exhibits artifacts from the time of Portuguese colonialism.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: NA
2. Nagoa Beach
Photo: JediPro / Wikimedia Commons
Diu has many beaches like Nagoa Beach which is one of its most visited beaches. It has a shape like a crescent moon and palm trees sticking out from all sides similar to an umbrella. Tourists can participate in water games such as parasailing, skiing on jet skis and riding on banana boats. Several beach shacks offer tasty seafood items along with drinks here. Some nearby places are Sunset Point and INS Khukri Memorial.
Timings: 7 AM to 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: NA
3. Gangeshwar Temple
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / WIkimedia Commons
Gangeshwar Temple is an ancient Shiva temple situated on a seashore. The five naturally formed Shiva lingams in the ocean are the main attractions of the temple. Many devotees visit this temple during Mahashivratri festival. Surrounded by hills and green trees, it is a good place to meditate and relax.
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: NA
4. Chakratirth Beach
Photo: Fabian Wiktor / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Chakratirth Beach, about 6 km away from the Caves located in Diu, is an isolated and beautiful place that offers amazing natural beauty along with a calm ambiance. The soft golden sand and transparent water of Chakratirth Beach make it a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and resting. It is also said that this happy ending of a day’s sighting through the sun rose across the horizon as well as became known for its other viewings much in common with sunrise to be experienced at its finest here on such occasions alone.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: NA
5. Diu Bird Sanctuary
Photo: pavan sai thummala / Unspalsh / Image For Representation Only
Diu Bird Sanctuary, which is also known as Fudam Bird Sanctuary, is located about 10 km from the Caves in Diu. This peaceful place is a marshland that attracts a wide range of migratory and resident birds thus making it a paradise for bird-watchers and nature lovers alike. The reserve was created to preserve unique birds among the locals; therefore it contains lush mangrove scrubs and wetlands, such as breeding grounds for many fish as well as homes for different avifauna species.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: NA
Where To Stay
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There are many accommodation options near the caves. Hotel Apana is known for its modern ambiance right next to the caves; it serves local delicacies at its restaurant which becomes a great spot for anyone coming. Radhika Beach Resort is situated close to Nagoa Beach and has beautiful gardens along with cozy rooms.
Where To Eat
Photo: kabir cheema / WIkimedia
After exploring the Caves in Diu, you will be looking for a place to enjoy some good food. The Floatel offers a distinct dining experience by presenting local seafood and Indian dishes on its menu. It is a great spot to enjoy fresh tasteful meals with scenic views of water. Infinity Café & Multi-Cuisine has got an extensive menu comprising local delicacies.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Radhi.pandit / Wikimedia Commons
Naida caves must be visited during the winter months from October to February. The weather is favorable in Diu during this period, making it possible to go for outdoor excursions. Photographers and nature enthusiasts are advised to go early morning or late afternoon as natural light coming through the crevices of the cave creates striking images.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: NEOM / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of Trip
The cost of a trip to Naida Caves Diu will differ based on travel preferences.
- Transportation: Flight fares from major cities come at prices ranging between ₹3,000-₹6,000 if you’re headed to Diu. To reach the closest railway station, would approximately mean parting with ₹500-₹1,500.
- Accommodation: For these budget hotels, expect to pay between ₹1,000-₹3,000 per night while the mid-range hotels charge around ₹3,000-₹6,000 for a night.
- Food and Activities: An estimate of food costs may vary from as low as ₹500 to as high as ₹1000 every day. Naida caves are free of admission charges.
An average person can spend within a bracket of about ₹10,000 to about ₹20,000 for a three-day trip depending on their selections.
Tips For Travelers
- What to Take: Water, sun cream, comfy shoes and a camera should not be forgotten. The amenities are scarce so get ready accordingly.
- Exploration: Expect a series of tunnels like a jigsaw puzzle; keep to marked ways for both your protection and that of the site.
- Respect Nature: For us to keep the beauty of these caves intact we must not leave behind any garbage or irritate animals living there.
Naida Caves lie in the Diu and boast of natural beauty, historical significance and adventure. These caves are captivating experiences for history buffs, adventure seekers or nature lovers amongst others because so many tourists visit them every year. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this interesting destination by planning your trip to Naida with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Piyush Tripathi / Wikimedia Commons
