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Day 11: Coastal Retreat – Gir to Diu
As the sun painted the sky in the morning, we left Gir behind, steering south to the laid-back haven of Diu. The roads, though a bit uneven, wove through bustling towns. Around noon, we crossed into the serenity of Diu, a union territory, checked into our abode (Azzaro Resorts and Spa), and succumbed to the cool refuge of our room, sheltering from the relentless sun.
Our resort offered a soothing escape, with the rhythmic lullaby of the pool and the gentle touch of sea breeze creating a perfect harmony for a serene retreat.
Indulging in the zesty delight of masala-peanuts, a perfect spicy companion for our moments of relaxation.
We embraced a leisurely day, a respite from our whirlwind explorations. Dry snacks arrived as my daughter splashed joyously in the pool.
Basking in the refreshing coolness of the pool.
Amidst reflections on our journey, I captured moments with my camera. As the day waned, dinner preceded a peaceful night’s rest.
Day 12: Sentinel Stories – Reminiscing at INS Khukri and Diu Fort
INS Khukri Memorial
As Day 12 dawned, the beckoning spirit of discovery led us to the hallowed grounds of the INS Khukri Memorial, an evocative homage to the naval ship lost in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. This poignant site, caressed by coastal winds, stands as a testament to the unwavering valor of sailors who stood gallant in defense of our nation. The expansive memorial unfolds like a chapter of history, with each name etched in stone echoing the indomitable bravery of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The strategic placement of the memorial by the sea imparts an ethereal quality as if the fallen sailors continue their eternal watch over the vast expanse of the ocean.
Navigating this expansive memorial is made convenient by the generous parking space and the availability of battery-operated vehicles, a thoughtful touch for visitors exploring the undulating terrain under the sun’s relentless heat. As we delved deeper into the memorial’s narrative, the calm sea, visible from its vantage point, bestowed a profound sense of serenity. The soothing sea breeze became a welcome companion, providing solace and reflection amidst the historical echoes. In this solemn space, where bravery transcends time, our journey unfolded, weaving us into the fabric of India’s maritime history.
The panoramic view from INS Khukri Memorial unveils a saddening landscape, where the sea’s vast expanse cradles the solemn grounds, echoing the sacrifice of brave sailors in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
The strategic placement of INS Khukri Memorial, overlooking the serene sea, creates a touching ambiance.
A speed boat gracefully slicing through the waves of the Arabian Sea, leaving behind its trails.
A vantage point overlooking the vast expanse of the sea.
The well-maintained surroundings add to the solemnity.
A symbol of spiritual solace
Diverse flora and fauna add a touch of nature’s poetry
Diu Fort
Transitioning from the solemnity of INS Khukri Memorial, our next destination was the bustling Diu Fort. Unlike the memorial, the fort area was vibrant with numerous shops lining the entrance. Seeking refuge from the warmth, we refreshed ourselves with the cooling essence of tender coconut water, a perfect antidote to the sun’s intensity.
As we entered the Diu Fort, the ambiance transported us back in time. Massive walls, formidable gateways, and the sea breeze whispered tales of battles fought and won. Cannon-studded bastions lined our path, standing as proud witnesses to history. Amidst the echoes of the past, we explored well-preserved canons, walls, and a lighthouse, each revealing a chapter of bygone eras. The strategic location, with the Arabian Sea as a backdrop, painted a vivid picture of the fort’s historical significance. Walking through the labyrinth of tunnels and along the expansive walls, we could almost feel the pulse of ancient times. Today, it’s not merely a fortress; it’s a living testament to the confluence of history and natural splendor.
Diu’s Fort, a living testament to history, unveils its grandeur in a prototype.
Diu’s fortifications stand resilient, guarded by walls that bear witness to centuries of history. Beneath, the waters host silent guardians, the lurking presence of crocodiles adding an intriguing layer to the fort’s surroundings (and this is not today)
The other side of the fort reveals its other facet. From the sea, a panoramic view unfolds, showcasing the fort’s architectural grandeur against the backdrop of the cloudless sky. And the maintenance work is fully on.
Between the ancient fort walls, a breathtaking expanse of the ocean unfolds, inviting contemplation and awe at the timeless beauty of the merging sea and sky.
Within the fort’s ancient embrace, the echoes of history resonate amidst the weathered structures. However, neglect mars its grandeur, revealing a miserable contrast of time’s passage on these once-majestic walls and buildings.
As the sun soared high, we retreated to the embrace of our room for a leisurely lunch and a rejuvenating afternoon nap.
Diu Nagoa Beach
In the golden hues of the evening, we set out for Diu Nagoa Beach, its shores inviting us to contemplate the journey that unfolded and the bonds we forged. While the beach tempted us with various water activities, we chose a more serene path, immersing ourselves in the reflections of our shared adventures. Our little one, fueled by her kid’s exuberance, crafted castles and tunnels in the soft sand.
The view unfolds a peaceful spectacle, where soft sands meet the gentle waves. Its pristine expanse offers a relaxed retreat, inviting moments of contemplation.
As the sun bids adieu, casting its final golden glow on the westernmost edge of India, a pleasant silhouette unfolds. The horizon embraces the twilight, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, marking the end of another day on Diu’s pristine shores.
As the day wound down, we explored the vibrant marketplace near Bandar Chok Jetty View. Amidst the ancient walls and sea breeze, the lively Bandar Chok transforms into a bustling market. Vibrant stalls beckon, offering a glimpse of local life against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea.
A solitary bridge linking Diu to the mainland, an architectural lifeline suspended over calm waters, creates a seamless connection between the island and the Indian mainland.
Returning to our haven, we savored a quiet dinner, packing our belongings in readiness for the forthcoming days filled with the promise of discovery at the Statue of Unity and the town of Kevadia.
Day 13: Diu to Statue of Unity, Kevadia via Nishkalank, Bhavnagar
As the dawn painted the sky with hues of gold, we set out on our hectic journey to Kevadia, a day brimming with promises and adventures. Traversing through the border checks, we navigated a highway adorned with the lumbering presence of trucks, finding solace as we approached Una. The road, a fickle companion, revealed a tapestry of conditions, from weathered to passable. Our foresight in packing simple delights of bread, butter, and jam proved a savior, ensuring our journey adhered to the melody of our well-planned schedule.
Nishkalank Temple, Bhavnagar
The sun, now casting a warm glow, whispered tales of the day’s odyssey. A spontaneous detour beckoned us to Nishkalank Mahadev Temple in Bhavnagar. As we arrived, the waves still clung to the temple, revealing only its majestic gopuram. This submerged sacred site, emerging briefly during low tide, exuded an aura of divine mystery.
Standing before the temple’s gopuram, partially submerged in the receding tide, we marveled at the cyclical dance of nature. The waves, like ephemeral storytellers, whispered tales of timeless grace, promising a complete revelation once their watery embrace fully retreated, a spectacle veiled in the mystery of the next two hours.
A closer look: The majestic gopuram of Nishkalank Bhavnagar, shrouded by the rhythmic dance of waves, stood as a sentinel at the confluence of divine grace and the elemental forces.
Resuming our expedition, the road unfurled before us like a parchment, each stretch holding the promise of the colossal Statue of Unity. The journey, a symphony of sights and sounds, encapsulated the essence of travel – unexpected turns, fleeting moments, and the allure of the unknown. Our spirits soared with the anticipation of the monumental encounter that awaited us in Kevadia.
To Be Continued…
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