Naida Caves

4.4

Location: PX6J+474, Diu, Daman and Diu 362520, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 1 hour

In Diu, Naida Caves are the most interesting rock formations. It is believed that these caves were naturally pre-existing, but when the Portuguese occupied the area, they used the orange-brown stone from them to build the royal Du Fort, which left behind an interesting structure. These caves are a maze-like formation that is a joy to explore. Located outside the Diu Fort, the caves are lined with an intricate network of tunnels and massive step-like structures that make for an interesting climb. Naida caves also offer good opportunities for photographers as the sunlight streaming through the various cracks makes the scene quite photogenic. Moreover, going through the rock-cut structures and climbing the stairs is a thrilling experience that should not be missed.

Attraction

Naida Caves are a definite treat for photographers and a paradise for adventurers. Located on the outskirts of Diu fort, the caves here have a complex network of massive step-like structures and tunnels. The caves here have a natural opening that lets in sunlight and makes them more photogenic, making them a must-see attraction.

History

Located outside the city walls of Diu Fort, the Naida Caves are a group of interconnected caves built by the Portuguese. The caves are located a short distance from the city of Diu and have a large network of tunnels with square carved steps that remain completely unexplored. Naida Caves is one of the most underrated tourist attractions in Diu but is as healthy for an adventurer or a history buff as it is for a photographer. The Naida Caves got their shape after the Portuguese ruled Diu and demolished the massive rock formations they used for construction. Interestingly, these caves have been formed over time due to geological irregularities and natural processes. Naida Caves are slowly being recognized as one of the great attractions since prehistoric times. The caves have a natural opening that lets in sunlight, making it photogenic. During the 20th century, when the Portuguese were not ready to leave Diu, Operation Vijay was launched by the Indian Army to seize control and during that time several troops were stationed in the Naida Caves. It is strongly believed that when the Portuguese ruled Diu, they broke the outstanding rock sections and used them for construction and thus the caves were eventually formed. It is researched that the caves were formed due to geological irregularities. Locally it is said that in the 20th century, when the Portuguese refused to leave Diu and the Indian army launched a conquest campaign to seize control, several soldiers were said to have stayed here in the Naida Caves.

Inside/Outside Views

There are no security guards at Naida Caves and no entrance fee is required. Naida Caves are located near the Jalandhar beach, approximately 1 km from the city center. The best time to visit is in the afternoon when the sun is vertically overhead. This allows sunlight to pass through the openings of the caves and create beautiful light patterns. It is worth mentioning that you can find arrows painted on the walls, but most of the time they lead nowhere. It is recommended to visit the caves in bright light in the morning or late evening before there is no other means of light and it will be very dark in the late evening.

Opening Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Entry & Others Fees

No entry fee is needed.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Diu Airport is the best way to reach Diu. This is the fastest way. If you are wondering how to reach Diu quickly, there is no better way than flight. Air India operates 4 times a week flights from Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport to Diu Airport. These flights operate on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. So, plan your Diu trip according to the flight schedule. Alternatively, there is a helicopter service that operates between Daman and Diu – the two Union Territories, thus cutting the 13-hour road journey into an hour of helicopter travel. Chopper is available from Monday to Saturday and costs around Rs 3000 for one person. You can hire a taxi to reach your desired place from the airport.

By Rail: There is no railway station near Diu. The nearest railway station to Diu is Veraval, which is about 90 km from Diu by road. It has rail connectivity with Ahmedabad, Mumbai and other nearby cities. It is a budget-friendly way to travel to Diu. Somnath Express and Veraval Express are some of the popular trains that reach Veraval. Hire a taxi to reach your desired place from the station.

By Road: There are 24 bus departures and arrivals from Diu that you can choose from. By bus, Diu is connected to Gujarat by a bridge. Thus, it is quite well connected to all major cities like Veraval, Rajkot, Porbandar, Daman etc. Gujarat state buses, as well as private buses, make travelling to Diu even easier. One can easily reach Diu by hiring a cab or taxi.

Tips for Travellers

You must be aware while travelling to the city. Besides you should avoid travelling there after sunset. But if you are already in the city you can travel to the park in the evening.