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Daman is a vibrant coastal city in the union territory of Daman and Diu, India. Located on the west coast of India along the Arabian Sea, this place is known for its colonial-era forts and churches. Visitors are enthralled by the expansive vistas offered from the ramparts of the forts in Daman. They have been a part of Portuguese India, which is reflected in its rich architecture and culture. Daman has a relaxed atmosphere with its economy driven by tourism. This city has pleasant weather mostly throughout the year and fewer crowds in comparison to other popular tourist destinations.
Location
Photo: Amit Kumar Dubey / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the southern part, the Moti Daman Fort is strategically close to the mouth of the Daman Ganga River. It is where the Daman Ganga River and the Arabian Sea meet. Situated in the older part of the town, it lets you explore nearby landmarks like Jampore Beach and Governor’s Palace. Another popular fort, Nani Daman Fort is in the northern part of Daman across the Daman Ganga River from Moti Daman.
How To Reach
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By Air: To reach these historical forts in Daman via air, you shall have to reach Surat International Airport. You will have to cover 120 km by taxi to reach the fort. You can easily drive yourself as the roads are well maintained. This journey will take 2-3 hours to complete.
By Road: You can also reach these popular forts in Daman from all the major cities like Mumbai and Surat. You can take NH 48 from Mumbai and follow the signs to reach Daman which is about 12 km away. You have to cover a distance of 120 km if you’re travelling from Surat.
2 Forts In Daman
Daman offers a blend of rich history and culture with its notable forts. To experience this historical tapestry, you must visit these 2 best forts in Daman.
1. Moti Daman Fort
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Located along the Arabian sea coast, Moti Daman Fort was constructed by the Portuguese in 1559. Built as a defence structure against invaders, it provides scenic views of the surrounding area and the sea. This fort has a massive entrance gate signifying the Portuguese colonial influence in India during ancient times. It is a significant cultural and historical landmark in Daman. It has a massive area of about 30,000 square kilometres and is polygonal in shape. The fort houses attractions like the Cathedral of Bom Jesus, the Chapel of Our Lady of Rosary and the Dominican Monastery.
Nearby Attractions: Church of Our Lady of the Sea, Daman Beach, Daman Market, Portuguese Cemetery, Panikota Fort
Top Activities: Sightseeing, picnicking, photography
2. Nani Daman Fort
Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons
Nani Daman Fort is a crucial historical landmark in northern Daman, also known as Nani Daman. The fort is known for its Portuguese colonial architecture. Constructed in the 17th century to protect against attacks from pirates and neighbouring kingdoms, it is situated along the banks of the Daman Ganga River in the northern part of the region. Visitors reach the top of the fort for scenic views just by stepping on a few stone steps. It has lush green surroundings and is popular among history buffs, making it one of the famous forts in Daman.
Nearby Attractions: Church of St. Jerome, Nani Daman Beach, Daman Ganga River, Daman Jetty, Gangeshwar Temple, Devka Beach, Jampore Beach
Top Activities: Sightseeing, picnicking, photography, historical walk
Where To Stay
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There are several accommodation options available near these top forts in Daman. The Gold Beach Resort has all the luxurious amenities including a swimming pool. Hotel Sea Rock Inn is a sea-facing property and is 1km away from Nani Daman Fort. Hotel Gurukripa is a budget-friendly hotel whereas Cidade de Daman is a mid-budget hotel with easy access to the Moti Daman Fort. Sandy Resort, which is about 2 km from Moti Daman Fort, is a mix of comfort and luxury with facilities like a swimming pool and restaurant.
Where To Eat
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Daman is known for its food scene. Hotel Gurukripa in Daman offers great food choices, including seafood. You must try prawn curry, bombil fry and butter chicken at this restaurant. Mutton Rogan Josh is a must-try dish at Cidade de Daman. Veera Dhaba serves delicious Sarson da Saag with Makki di roti and tandoori chicken cooked with traditional spices. Daman Delite is a multi-cuisine restaurant serving authentic North Indian food. Near Nani Daman Fort, O Coqueiro is popular for its fish rice curry rice and seafood. This restaurant serves great chicken xacuti with roasted spices and coconut.
Best Time To Visit
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The ideal time to visit these Daman forts is from October to March, as these months observe favourable temperatures. This duration is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities like exploring the fort, especially with the kids. Visit during early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds. This period also observes several local festivals, and thus, here is your chance to explore the cultural vibrancy.
Other Factors To Consider
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Here are other important factors to consider while you’re planning your trip to these forts in Daman.
Average Cost Of Trip
There is no entry fee to visit a fort in Daman. The cost of the trip may vary as per the season. A budget 1-day trip may cost around ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 based on the choices of accommodation and food preferences. It is great to reach during off-peak months to have a budget-friendly visit.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry sunglasses and sunscreen during the summer.
- Hire a local guide for a better exploration.
- Choose to wear breathable clothes suitable for the tropical climate.
- Carry your water bottle and stay informed about the local events.
Daman forts were established to safeguard the Portuguese trade interests and important routes along the western coast. With their rich history and intricate designs, they attract visitors from all across the globe. So, if you are planning a trip to this coastal city, then do visit these majestic forts in Daman. You can connect with TripXL, and pack your bags for a memorable time.
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