Diu Island (India)

Diu Island is located just off mainland India (Kathiawar Peninsula's southern coast) and separated from it by a tidal creek. The isle has total area of 40 km2 (15 mi2) and population around 45,000. On the island are located Diu Town, Diu Fort and Diu Airport. Also in India's Gujarat State, approx 175 km (110 mi) to the northeast is the worldwide-famous Alang Shipbreaking Yard.

Diu Island's attractions include St Paul's Church - a Portuguese (Gothic style) building completed in 1610 and best-known for its wood carving craftsmanship. Part of St Thomas Church (completed in 1598) is a museum housing antique statues, stone inscriptions, amazing wooden carvings. The island also has several chapels. Diu Lighthouse is the highest elevation point (8 m / 26 ft).

Diu Fort (built by the Portuguese in 1535) is on the western coast. Portuguese ruled over Diu Island between 1537 and 1961. Diu Town is located to the west of Diu Fort. This massive fort features a double moat, an array of cannons and cannonballs scattered around. A section of the fort serves as jail.

Fortim do Mar fortress is another impressive stone structure built at the creek's mouth (in the sea). It is located approx 2 km from the jetty. Fortim do Mar has ist own lighthouse and a small chapel.

Diu Airport is a civilian aerodrome also serving the neighbouring Gujarat territories, including Jafrabad and Veraval. The airport (1954-built by the Portuguese) started operations in 1955. The airline connected Diu Island with Daman City, Goa and Karachi (Pakistan). Today, the airport links Diu with Mumbai via the Indian airline "Air India Regional". In December 1961 the airfield was severely damaged after Indian air forces bombed the island. The main runway has length 5922 ft (1826m) and width of 148 ft (45 m). The terminal building has 1 arrival and 1 departure hall (total capacity 200 passengers).

Diu Island cruise terminal