Daman

Daman is a city and the administrative capital of the Indian territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. It is a municipal council situated in the Daman district of the union territory. The town Ganga River divides Daman into Nani-Daman and Moti-Daman. Despite its name, 1st is the largest of the two parts, while the old city is mainly in 2end. This area holds most of the important entities, such as major hospitals, supermarkets, and residential areas. Vapi, Gujarat, is the nearest city to Daman.

History of Daman

The town has a rich history, having been part of various empires and ruled by different kings and chieftains over the centuries. It was initially part of the Mauryan empire and later came under the rule of Satavahanas, Kshaharatas, Abhir Kings, Traikutakas, Vakatakas, Kalachuris, and Chalukyas of Badami. In the next eight centuries, The town came under the control of a large number of Hindu kings and chieftains.

Mahmud Shah Begada, Sultan of Gujarat, seems to have conquered Fort Parnera on the river Par and the port of The town and levied tribute from Jagatshah in 1465. Naranshah who succeeded Jagatshah ruled from A.D. 1470 to 1500 and Dharmshah II from 1500 to 1531.

The town was acquired by the Portuguese from the Shah of Gujarat. They noticed the port of Daman for the first time in 1523. They attacked it several times and finally obtained it in 1559 utilizing a treaty with the Shah. Thereafter, it was under the rule of the Portuguese till its liberation in 1961.

Culture Of Daman

People of The town celebrate a series of festivals from Makarsankranti in January to Christmas in December. Festivals like Garba Dance, Folk Dance, Ganagaji Fair, and Nariyal Poornima are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Christmas is a time for decorating houses and preparing feasts. Other important festivals celebrated in Daman include Holi, Diwali, Id, Rakshabandhan, New Year, and Easter.

Tourism in Daman

The town’s rich history under Portuguese rule for over 400 years has left a lasting imprint on the region, evident in its well-preserved forts and churches. The Bom Jesus Church and the imposing Fort are among the prominent landmarks that offer a glimpse into the area’s past.

The town’s lighthouse provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. The town is also renowned for its relaxed lifestyle, delectable seafood cuisine, and the production of Feni, a spirit made from cashew fruit. The region’s blend of various cultural influences is reflected in the fervently celebrated festivals by its multi-ethnic residents. The tranquil beaches of Devka and Jampore offer serene spots ideal for picnics and water sports, making Daman a perfect blend of heritage and natural beauty.

Weather in Daman

The town is an awesome place to visit from October to February. The weather is just perfect during these months, with clear skies and temperatures ranging between 15-20 degrees Celsius. It’s the best time for activities like swimming, snorkelling, and sightseeing. Don’t miss out on visiting Jallandhar Beach, Devka Beach, Ghoghla Beach, Church of Our Lady Rosary, and Gandhi Park. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy some delicious seafood as it’s the fishing season. Keep in mind that accommodations might be a bit pricey due to the high number of tourists.

Monsoon: (July to September), expect moderate to heavy rains, especially in August. The weather gets humid, but the rain brings relief from the heat. You can also experience the Nariyal Purnima festival in August, with temperatures ranging from 28-36 degrees Celsius. Accommodations will be more budget-friendly during this time.

summer: (March to June), it can get pretty hot with temperatures ranging between 27-39 degrees Celsius. However, it’s a great time for water sports like swimming, snorkelling, water skiing, and waterboarding. If you’re on a budget, this might be the perfect time to plan your trip, as accommodations are available at heavily discounted rates.

Population and Religion of Daman

The town Municipal Council is home to around 60,000 people. According to the official census in 2011 and the population data from 2024, the majority of the population in The town identifies as Hindu, making up about 89.73%. Additionally, Muslims make up around 19.70% and Christians around 4.61% of the population.

Economy of Daman

The economy of The town is primarily based on fishery, agriculture, and tourism. The Union Territory enjoys tax concessions, making it a favoured destination for investors. Agricultural production has increased with double cropping and adequate irrigation facilities. Fishing is a major economic activity, with a significant portion of the population engaged in it. The district also has a significant number of industrial units manufacturing various products such as chemicals, medicines, packaging, and alcoholic beverages.