Goa (6nights) – Daman (2nights)- Diu (2 nights) – Bombay.
Long before the Brits even knew where India was, the Portuguese had already established a foothold in India (Vasco da Gama arrived in 1498), and they remained in India over a decade after the ignominious and chaotic British retreat from India.
Goa has a reputation for its beaches, lackadaisical lifestyle and tolerance of debauchery but there exists another Goa: a deeply conservative land with one foot in its Portuguese past and the other in the Indian present and future. A Goa of old Portuguese homes, forts and churches.
Our itinerary presents both Goas but the emphasis is really on Goa’s Portuguese past.
Once you’ve had your fill of Goa, head back up the coast to Daman, another Portuguese colony, albeit a much smaller and quieter one than Goa. Explore Daman’s fort and Portuguese homes at a leisurely pace and enjoy Portuguese cuisine infused with Gujarati and Marathi influences.
Across the Gulf of Khambat lies Diu, another ex-Portuguese colony. Here, too, you will find charming Portuguese churches and homes as well as a fort. And, since you’re already in Diu, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit Gir Forest, which is home to Asiatic lions.
Conclude your trip in Bombay (Bom Bahia as it was known during the reign of the Portuguese), the collection of fishing villages that grew to become a mega-city where every day is a hustle for millions. Bombay/Mumbai is worthy of at least a couple of nights (add a third night if you wish to explore the caves on Elephanta Island) and even then you’ll probably just scratch the surface.
Walking tours are a great way to explore the city. Fans of the book Shantaram should definitely try the Shantaram tour!
