Daman or Damao, a Union Territory was a Portuguese enclave for four centuries and a half till the close of the colonial rule in 1961. The first Portuguese Captain Diogo de Mello, while on his way to Ormuz, met with a violent cyclone and when all hopes were lost, suddenly found himself at the Daman coast. Daman was the battleground to oust the Portuguese and had witnessed many a wars waged against the alien powers. It had been a melting pot where races and cultures met and mixed to bring forth a multicoloured identity. This paradise of peace, solitude and contentment with its coastline about 12.5 km along the Arabian sea (the Gulf of Khambhat) was once known as Kalana Pavri or Lotus of Marshlands. A laid back little town, Daman is divided by the Damanganga river. Nani Daman (or Little Daman) in the north and Moti Daman (or Big Daman) in the south which retains something of the Portuguese atmosphere in its Government buildings and churches of colonial origins enclosed within an imposing wall.
Daman, near Surat in the south of Gujarat is a small port in the Gulf of Khambhat (Cambay). With its easy accessibility, just 12 km from Vapi, the nearest railway station on the Delhi-Mumbai and Ahmedabad-Mumbai rail route and very close to the national highway (NH 8) and with adequate infrastructure, Daman besides attracting weekend tourists from neighboring Gujarat and Maharashtra is poised to become a favoured destination for travelers from all over the country as well as the business visitors.
Daman gratifies the whims of sun bathers and swimmers at its beaches, the historic churches with finely carved statues, majestic forts that rise in their imposing splendour, coconut groves, abundant greenery and round the year temperate climate all provide a lovely escape for those in search of bliss, happiness and fun far away from the bustles of city life. Being a port town, it offers an exquisite variety of sea food, fare to satisfy the demanding palates of fish lovers, while the quaint bars and sea side modern restaurants satisfy the pleasure of life. The friendly and hospitable people, Hindus, Christians, Parses and Muslims all living in harmony here on this exquisite pearl on the west coast compel visitors to come again and again. Of late, the town has fast emerged as the right place for corporate meets, conferences, seminars, orientation programmes and training sessions. Today Daman offers everything, be it heritage, culture, leisure, fun, adventure and business tourism.
Beaches
Jampore Beach
About 3 km south of Moti Daman, the Jompore Beach is sandy and safe for swimming, pleasant spot with casuarinas plantation on the sea shore, where one can commune with nature in sublime solitude. One can walk on the soft wet sand with golden tinge right into the sea during low tide. The beach line is broad and quite serene. The sea here is free from undercurrents and dangers. Horse riding is also available at Jampore Beach. Around Rs.40 for an autorickshaw from Moti Daman. The Fisherman's Beach at sea face in Nani Daman, yet another popular place is also a good sandy beach.
Devka Beach
About 3 km north from Nani Daman, Devka Beach shoreline offers excellent recreation to the visitor. The ambience is serene and easy going. Walking the beach as the waves dance at your toes and the visual drama played out by nature with sea turning its colour and the sky mirroring each passing mood has always charmed the tourists. During low-tide, one can walk right into the sea and collect shells and various stones. The traveler can beat the summer heat by taking swim in the cool water of the sea but take precaution while bathing in sea as there are rocky formations beneath the water.
At Devka, the most popular tourist attraction, a beachside amusement park has been developed that includes kids corner with toy train, merry-go round and large garden, fast food centre and ice cream parlour. The multicoloured fountains in the park on play provide an enchanting sight and are tourist's delight. You can also enjoy pony and camel ride on the sand.
Some of the bigger hotels in Daman are in vicinity, along one road. The sea facing restaurants of these hotels are very popular given the cool evenings and sea breeze. The lane opposite the park has some roadside stalls selling custom electronic items, soft toys, readymades and export surplus garments. Entry to the park is Rs.5, Camera Rs.15. Taxis and autorickshaws are easily available to take you to Devka (around Rs. 30 for an autorickshaw).
Other Places in Daman
Fort of St. Jerome
On the north side of the Damanganga river, this fort in Nani Daman is named after St.Jerome, one of the most eminent fathers of the Catholic Church. Started in 1614 AD, after the Mughal Invasion, by the 12th Portuguese Viceroy of India, Dom Jeronimo de Azevado it got completed in the time of Dom Franciso de Gama in 1672 AD. The small fort with a giant gateway facing the river with a large statue of St.Jerome and two giant human figures, on either side of the gateway encloses an area of 12250 sq.m. The fort encloses a church. Our Lady of the Sea (now used as a school) and a cemetery. The view of the small fishing fleet which anchors alongside from the fort is interesting.
The Gandhi Park near the fort, the temple of Shri Satya Narayan are few more attractions for travelers in Nani Daman. The tourist crosses over to Moti Daman through Daman Ganga Bridge.
Fort Of Moti Daman
Soon after the conquest of Daman in 1559 AD, construction of this massive fort started and lasted till the end of 16th century AD. It encompasses about 30,000 sq. m. with ten bastions and two gateways - southern (land) gate and the northern (sea) gate. The fort is protected by a moat on the land side and also connects the river to the sea. The main street inside the fort runs north - south and all along the inner wall there are barracks of defence personnel.
On the northern side within the confine of the fort were located the palaces, the secretariat and other official buildings. A large number of Portuguese gentry and their families resided within the fort. The recently built circular road is like a necklace round the Fort. It is now a popular promenade.
Light House
On the northern side within the confine of the fort were located the palaces, the secretariat and other official buildings. A large number of Portuguese gentry and their families resided within the fort. The recently built circular road is like a necklace round the Fort. It is now a popular promenade.
History of Daman
The district of Daman is known to formed part of the country know as Lata which was one of the seven divisions of the Aparant or Konkan Vishaya between 2nd century BC and 13th century AD. The archeological evidences prove that this land formed part of the Mauryan empire at least at the time of Ashoka. After the Mauryan power was weakened, the district was subjected to Satavahana rulers, Satakarni I, in the end of the 2dn century BC. During the first century AD, Kshaharatas seemed to have reigned over Daman district, till 249 AD and then followed by Abhiras who held the sway over entire Daman which lasted till 416 AD.
After the rule of Abhir kings, Traikutakas, the feudatories of the Abhiras, seized control of the district during the 5th century AD and their empire extended from Lata country or southern Gujarat to Daman, Konkan and northern Maharashtra. The 500 AD saw the rise in prominence of Vakataka king Harishena, who destroyed the Traikutaka power. Next, the district came under suzerainty of Kalachuris of Mahishamati and Kalachuri reign lasted upto about 609 AD. From the coins found all over this territory, it is learn that the king Mangales of Chalukyas of Badami penetrated to seize control of the Lata country by about 609 AD. The Chalukyas of Badami ruled the district till 671 AD and their descendents known as Lata or Navasari Chalukyas ruled from Navasarika, modern Navasari on the bank of river Purna to the north of Daman. The district passed under the Rashtrakutas of Malkhed from 757-975 AD. They were conquered by Chalukyas of Kalyani in 973 AD. The Chalukya feudatory family named Nimbarka rule covered territory between rivern Tapti and Damanganga. The power of Chalukyas of Kalyani was weakened and the Lata country was annexed to the dominion of Gujarat Chalukyas of Anhilwad in 1160 AD who seem to have ruled over Lata country through their feudatory Simha. He transferred his alliance to Parmar ruler and continued to rule over the Lata Parmar feudatory unti 1217 AD. In about 1187 AD, Yadava sovereignty of Deccan at Devagiri rose in prominence who attacked the Parmar ruler and took control of Lata including Daman by 1223 AD. Yadava Singhana is recognised as the most illustrious ruler of Yadavas of Devagiri dynasty. By the middle of 13th century Rajput Prince, Ramasingh alias Ramasha from Udaipur during the Muslim conquest of Rajasthan came down to seek his fortune in the south seems to have defeated the Koli Chief Nathoart belonging to the Thorat tribe of Kolis and established himself in the hilly treat at Asheri or Asserseta near Daman about 1263 AD.
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.
By 1295 AD, the Emporar of Delhi, Allauddin Khilji had conquered Gujarat from the Chalukyas of Anhilwad and also the Deccan from Devagiri Yadavas. The reign of Somashah, the son of Ramshingh and his successors continued till early part of the 15th century AD and they ruled from the newly founded State of Ramnagar. The border extended to river Auranga near Bulsar to the north of Daman. Towards the east its border extended to Peint and Surgana from the Nasik district. The ancient trade route joined Nasik with port Daman via Peint and Surgana. The district of Daman included the coastal tract from Surat to Mahim. Mahmud Shah Begada, had conquered fort Parnera on the river Par and the port of Daman and levied tribute from ruler Jagatshah (reign 1432-1470 AD), a descendent of Ramasingh, in 1465. Naranshan (reign 1470-1500 AD) and Dharamshah II (reign 1500-1531), the successor of Jagat Shah did not come in conflict with Muslim rulers of the Gujarat or the Deccan.
The Portuguese had landed at Calicut in 1498 AD and established at Goa in 1510 AD and carried on depredation in the coastal areas during early part of the 16th century. They noticed the port of Daman for the first time in 1523.
Daman, near Surat in the south of Gujarat is a small port in the Gulf of Khambhat (Cambay). With its easy accessibility, just 12 km from Vapi, the nearest railway station on the Delhi-Mumbai and Ahmedabad-Mumbai rail route and very close to the national highway (NH 8) and with adequate infrastructure, Daman besides attracting weekend tourists from neighboring Gujarat and Maharashtra is poised to become a favoured destination for travelers from all over the country as well as the business visitors.
Daman gratifies the whims of sun bathers and swimmers at its beaches, the historic churches with finely carved statues, majestic forts that rise in their imposing splendour, coconut groves, abundant greenery and round the year temperate climate all provide a lovely escape for those in search of bliss, happiness and fun far away from the bustles of city life. Being a port town, it offers an exquisite variety of sea food, fare to satisfy the demanding palates of fish lovers, while the quaint bars and sea side modern restaurants satisfy the pleasure of life. The friendly and hospitable people, Hindus, Christians, Parses and Muslims all living in harmony here on this exquisite pearl on the west coast compel visitors to come again and again. Of late, the town has fast emerged as the right place for corporate meets, conferences, seminars, orientation programmes and training sessions. Today Daman offers everything, be it heritage, culture, leisure, fun, adventure and business tourism.
Beaches
Jampore Beach
About 3 km south of Moti Daman, the Jompore Beach is sandy and safe for swimming, pleasant spot with casuarinas plantation on the sea shore, where one can commune with nature in sublime solitude. One can walk on the soft wet sand with golden tinge right into the sea during low tide. The beach line is broad and quite serene. The sea here is free from undercurrents and dangers. Horse riding is also available at Jampore Beach. Around Rs.40 for an autorickshaw from Moti Daman. The Fisherman's Beach at sea face in Nani Daman, yet another popular place is also a good sandy beach.
Devka Beach
About 3 km north from Nani Daman, Devka Beach shoreline offers excellent recreation to the visitor. The ambience is serene and easy going. Walking the beach as the waves dance at your toes and the visual drama played out by nature with sea turning its colour and the sky mirroring each passing mood has always charmed the tourists. During low-tide, one can walk right into the sea and collect shells and various stones. The traveler can beat the summer heat by taking swim in the cool water of the sea but take precaution while bathing in sea as there are rocky formations beneath the water.
Some of the bigger hotels in Daman are in vicinity, along one road. The sea facing restaurants of these hotels are very popular given the cool evenings and sea breeze. The lane opposite the park has some roadside stalls selling custom electronic items, soft toys, readymades and export surplus garments. Entry to the park is Rs.5, Camera Rs.15. Taxis and autorickshaws are easily available to take you to Devka (around Rs. 30 for an autorickshaw).
Other Places in Daman
Fort of St. Jerome
On the north side of the Damanganga river, this fort in Nani Daman is named after St.Jerome, one of the most eminent fathers of the Catholic Church. Started in 1614 AD, after the Mughal Invasion, by the 12th Portuguese Viceroy of India, Dom Jeronimo de Azevado it got completed in the time of Dom Franciso de Gama in 1672 AD. The small fort with a giant gateway facing the river with a large statue of St.Jerome and two giant human figures, on either side of the gateway encloses an area of 12250 sq.m. The fort encloses a church. Our Lady of the Sea (now used as a school) and a cemetery. The view of the small fishing fleet which anchors alongside from the fort is interesting.
The Gandhi Park near the fort, the temple of Shri Satya Narayan are few more attractions for travelers in Nani Daman. The tourist crosses over to Moti Daman through Daman Ganga Bridge.
Fort Of Moti Daman
Soon after the conquest of Daman in 1559 AD, construction of this massive fort started and lasted till the end of 16th century AD. It encompasses about 30,000 sq. m. with ten bastions and two gateways - southern (land) gate and the northern (sea) gate. The fort is protected by a moat on the land side and also connects the river to the sea. The main street inside the fort runs north - south and all along the inner wall there are barracks of defence personnel.
On the northern side within the confine of the fort were located the palaces, the secretariat and other official buildings. A large number of Portuguese gentry and their families resided within the fort. The recently built circular road is like a necklace round the Fort. It is now a popular promenade.
Light House
The stately Light House is another popular site for tourists.
On the northern side within the confine of the fort were located the palaces, the secretariat and other official buildings. A large number of Portuguese gentry and their families resided within the fort. The recently built circular road is like a necklace round the Fort. It is now a popular promenade.
History of Daman
The district of Daman is known to formed part of the country know as Lata which was one of the seven divisions of the Aparant or Konkan Vishaya between 2nd century BC and 13th century AD. The archeological evidences prove that this land formed part of the Mauryan empire at least at the time of Ashoka. After the Mauryan power was weakened, the district was subjected to Satavahana rulers, Satakarni I, in the end of the 2dn century BC. During the first century AD, Kshaharatas seemed to have reigned over Daman district, till 249 AD and then followed by Abhiras who held the sway over entire Daman which lasted till 416 AD.
After the rule of Abhir kings, Traikutakas, the feudatories of the Abhiras, seized control of the district during the 5th century AD and their empire extended from Lata country or southern Gujarat to Daman, Konkan and northern Maharashtra. The 500 AD saw the rise in prominence of Vakataka king Harishena, who destroyed the Traikutaka power. Next, the district came under suzerainty of Kalachuris of Mahishamati and Kalachuri reign lasted upto about 609 AD. From the coins found all over this territory, it is learn that the king Mangales of Chalukyas of Badami penetrated to seize control of the Lata country by about 609 AD. The Chalukyas of Badami ruled the district till 671 AD and their descendents known as Lata or Navasari Chalukyas ruled from Navasarika, modern Navasari on the bank of river Purna to the north of Daman. The district passed under the Rashtrakutas of Malkhed from 757-975 AD. They were conquered by Chalukyas of Kalyani in 973 AD. The Chalukya feudatory family named Nimbarka rule covered territory between rivern Tapti and Damanganga. The power of Chalukyas of Kalyani was weakened and the Lata country was annexed to the dominion of Gujarat Chalukyas of Anhilwad in 1160 AD who seem to have ruled over Lata country through their feudatory Simha. He transferred his alliance to Parmar ruler and continued to rule over the Lata Parmar feudatory unti 1217 AD. In about 1187 AD, Yadava sovereignty of Deccan at Devagiri rose in prominence who attacked the Parmar ruler and took control of Lata including Daman by 1223 AD. Yadava Singhana is recognised as the most illustrious ruler of Yadavas of Devagiri dynasty. By the middle of 13th century Rajput Prince, Ramasingh alias Ramasha from Udaipur during the Muslim conquest of Rajasthan came down to seek his fortune in the south seems to have defeated the Koli Chief Nathoart belonging to the Thorat tribe of Kolis and established himself in the hilly treat at Asheri or Asserseta near Daman about 1263 AD.
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.
By 1295 AD, the Emporar of Delhi, Allauddin Khilji had conquered Gujarat from the Chalukyas of Anhilwad and also the Deccan from Devagiri Yadavas. The reign of Somashah, the son of Ramshingh and his successors continued till early part of the 15th century AD and they ruled from the newly founded State of Ramnagar. The border extended to river Auranga near Bulsar to the north of Daman. Towards the east its border extended to Peint and Surgana from the Nasik district. The ancient trade route joined Nasik with port Daman via Peint and Surgana. The district of Daman included the coastal tract from Surat to Mahim. Mahmud Shah Begada, had conquered fort Parnera on the river Par and the port of Daman and levied tribute from ruler Jagatshah (reign 1432-1470 AD), a descendent of Ramasingh, in 1465. Naranshan (reign 1470-1500 AD) and Dharamshah II (reign 1500-1531), the successor of Jagat Shah did not come in conflict with Muslim rulers of the Gujarat or the Deccan.
The Portuguese had landed at Calicut in 1498 AD and established at Goa in 1510 AD and carried on depredation in the coastal areas during early part of the 16th century. They noticed the port of Daman for the first time in 1523.
How To Reach
Vapi station, 12 km. east, is the main access point for Daman. Vapi on the main Delhi-Mumbai and Ahmedabad-Mumbai western Railway main broad-gauge line is very well linked to all parts of the country through Ahmedabad in Gujarat and Mumbai. Most mail, express, superfast trains including Shatabdi Express between Ahmedabad and Mumbai stop at Vapi. Mumbai is about 170 km. and Surat is about 90 km. from Vapi. Plenty of share taxis (Rs.15 per person) from outside the Vapi station leave for city centre of Daman. Full taxi, locally termed 'special' Rs. 90. Autorickshows are also available. Fare 'special' negotiable around Rs.50.
By taxi it takes about 20 minutes to reach Daman from Vapi. Also available are Gujarat State Transport buses (Rs.5 per person). It takes 30 minutes to reach Daman from Vapi. Mumbai-Ahmedabad NH-8 connects Daman via Vapi road. There are regular buses to Mumbai, Surat and Saurashtra region of Gujarat from Vapi. Those who come to Daman from Mumbai byt the NH-8 will branch off at Karambeli village between Bhilad and Vapi. From Vapi a road leads to Silvassa (20 km), the capital of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. The NH-8 to Mumbai continues south from Daman through Manor. You can also get down at Valsad, which is 45 km from Daman by road.
Unmetered taxis and autorickshaws are the general modes of local commuting. The rates are negotiable. Share (5-6 passengers) autorickshaws are available for places of tourist interest like Devka Beach - Rs 6-7 per person. Kadaiya - Rs. 10-12 per person. Jampore Beach - Rs.10-15 per person. And other places of historic importance in Moti Daman from stand near Char Rasta in Nani Daman. Charges for hiring full auto locally called 'special' is around Rs.5-7 per km. Expected pay for 'special' autorickshaw fare for Devka beach - Rs.30, Kadaiya - Rs.40, Jampore from Moti Daman - Rs.40, Indicative rates for taxis: Commercial market taxi stand to Silvassa - Rs.200-300, Commercial market taxi stand to Valsad - Rs.300-350, Commercial market taxi stand to Surat - Rs.1000-1200, Daman Sightseeing - Rs.600-700.
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