Portuguese forts, paved pathways, golden beaches: Anand Mahindra feels this coastal town in Gujarat is like a movie script

Daman may be known for its beaches and Portuguese legacy, but the coastal town is increasingly drawing attention for a very different reason. With its distinctive architecture, historic landmarks and relaxed seaside charm, the former Portuguese settlement offers a fascinating glimpse into India’s layered past. Its transformation has now caught the eye of industrialist Anand Mahindra, who featured Daman in his popular Sunday Wanderer series on X. The billionaire entrepreneur’s post reflects on how the Union Territory has gradually moved beyond its old image, emerging instead as a destination with heritage appeal and significant tourism potential.

Anand Mahindra on Daman’s coastal charm

In his X post, Anand Mahindra shared how Daman has changed dramatically over the years. He recalled that after the end of Portuguese rule, the coastal town became widely associated with inexpensive alcohol and liquor being transported across its borders. Its location beside dry Gujarat and Maharashtra, where alcohol carries high taxes, helped turn Daman into a popular destination for duty-free spirits.

Anand Mahindra also remembered hearing stories during his younger years about customs officials thoroughly checking car trunks as people crossed the border, even though he had never personally visited Daman at the time. The town consequently acquired several unflattering labels, from a smuggling hotspot and bootleggers’ retreat to a convenient low-tax getaway.


However, Anand Mahindra noted that Daman today presents a strikingly different picture. Its old reputation is increasingly being replaced by restored Portuguese-era forts, cleaner coastal stretches, historic heritage and considerable potential for seaside tourism. For Mahindra, the transformation highlights how a place can move beyond its past and build an entirely new identity.

Best places to visit in Daman

Moti Daman Fort

Stepping inside the stone ramparts of Moti Daman Fort feels like slipping through a portal into 16th-century Europe. Spanning vast acres along the Daman Ganga River, this massive fortress shelters quiet, tree-lined avenues, historical government buildings, and preserved colonial architecture. Strolling along the massive outer walls offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, making it an absolute dream for history enthusiasts and casual wanderers alike.

Jampore Beach

If your ideal coastal getaway involves soft tides and peaceful shores, Jampore Beach delivers in spades. Located near Moti Daman, this pristine stretch of coast is framed by lush casuarina trees that whisper with the ocean breeze. Known for its unique dark sand and gentle, shallow waters, it is the perfect spot to kick off your shoes, grab a refreshing coconut drink, or enjoy a tranquil sunset stroll.

Cathedral of Bom Jesus

Rising gracefully within the Moti Daman fort complex, the Cathedral of Bom Jesus stands as a striking testament to Portuguese craftsmanship. Completed in 1603, this historic parish church is renowned for its magnificent wooden altarpiece, intricately carved golden statues, and soaring ceilings. The quiet ambiance offers a contemplative pause from the sunny coast, allowing visitors to soak in centuries of art, faith, and architectural splendor.

Dominican Monastery Ruins

Eerie yet undeniably romantic, the Dominican Monastery ruins capture Daman’s layered history in stone. Once a thriving hub for Catholic scholars, the site now features weather-worn arches, crumbling stone walls, and carved floral motifs open to the sky. Walking among these sun-dappled ruins gives travelers a poetic glimpse into the past, proving that time has only heightened the historic site's majestic aesthetic appeal.

Devka Beach and Promenade

Devka Beach offers a lively coastal experience defined by dramatic rocky shores and vibrant energy. While its rocky waters are better suited for sightseeing than swimming, the newly transformed seaside promenade is the real highlight here. Paved walkways, oceanfront seating, colorful street food stalls, and ocean breezes make it a favorite evening gathering spot to enjoy sunset views and local snacks by the sea.

How to reach

By Air: Daman Airport (NMB) is located just 3 km from the town center, mainly handling military operations; commercial travelers typically fly into Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, located roughly 170 km away.

By Rail: Vapi Railway Station (VAPI) is the closest railhead to Daman, situated merely 12 km away, allowing travelers to easily reach the coastal town via a quick 20-to-25-minute taxi or auto-rickshaw ride.

By Road: Daman is seamlessly connected via National Highway 48 (NH 48), making it an easy 3.5-hour drive (around 170 km) from Mumbai and about a 2.5-hour drive (around 120 km) from Surat. Frequent state transport (GSRTC/MSRTC) and private buses regularly operate along these routes, connecting Daman to major neighboring cities.