Why Diu? Because, Festa De Diu!

Soon, it’s going to be that time of the year again when all I want to do is hibernate. Dilli Ki Sardi might be charming and fascinating to people, but I am someone who is rather happy during the hot sunny days. So, every year I plan to escape the cold, dark and depressing days and head to a place which is still sunny. But, not every year I am able to execute that plan. But, when I came to know about Festa de Diu from friend and travel blogger Manjulika, I knew where I want to go this year. There is nothing better than escaping Delhi winters for a few sunny days at a beach, with feet in the sand and a book in the hands. Okay, wind in the hair as well. I don’t even mind a tan.

Diu is a tiny island connected to southern coast of Gujarat or what is called the Saurashtra region. The island was a Portuguese colony till 1961, when it was taken over by India. It isn’t a part of Gujarat but a union territory governed from Delhi, so, it ain’t dry like the state of Gujarat. A dry island would have been an irony anyway. The charm of calm, pristine beaches, tropical climate and some amazing Portuguese architecture makes it a must visit destination of western India.

Festa de Diu is Asia’s longest Beach Festival  spanning across two and a half months, from Dec 2015 to Feb 2016 and is being organized by the Administration of Diu. To be inaugurated by the President of India, Dr Pranab Mukherjee, it’s going to be a very interesting amalgamation of concerts, jam sessions, stand up comedy, literary and art programs, adventure activities, interesting workshops, dance performances, carnivals and much more. Add to that, the charm of it all happening at a beach and it’s no less than a dream. With over 300 artists performing over a span of two and a half months, I am sure there won’t be a dull moment. Each week has been assigned a theme and that actually makes it easier for us to decide when to plan the trip.

Administration of Diu is setting up luxury, air conditioned tents by the beach, which have all five star amenities. Imagine, falling asleep to the tunes of waves and waking up to the first rays of the sun, by the sea side. Staying at one of these tents entitle you to free passes for the performances and workshops as well as adventure activities like Hot Air Ballooning, Zip Lining and Bungee Jumping.

Here is how it works –

Since the time I came to know about this unique beach festival, I can’t stop dreaming about it. Expectations are sky high and maybe it’ll repeat the success of Sunburn. 

While at Diu, nearby Gir National Park , which is only 60 km away,must not be missed. It comprises of over 1400 square km of dense forests which has semi evergreen and evergreen flora, rocky highlands and grasslands penetrating with seasonal rivers and streams. Famous for its lions and leopards, Gir National Park is also home to a vast variety of deers, antelopes, crocodiles,  wild boars jackals and birds.

How to Reach?

So, there you go. All necessary information served on a platter. With the temperatures dropping everyday, I can’t wait to book that flight and head out of town to a warm, sandy beach.  A few lazy days wandering around the beach, playing in the deep blue sea, reading books while listening to the sound of waves – won’t that be an ideal closure to 2015?

Picture Credits – Festa De Diu