Daman is one of the towns on the western side of coastal India. It’s a town that promises peace and serenity to its visitors due to its clean beaches, the diminutive architectural remains of Portuguese rule, and the nostalgic atmosphere that surrounds the city. Daman is located off the border of Gujarat and Maharashtra, and is now a part of the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. Because of Daman’s proximity to the cities of Mumbai, Surat, and Vadodara, Daman is emerging as a popular weekend getaway.
Though Daman lacks a commercial airport or railway station in its boundaries, reaching Daman is fairly easy. This is due to its proximity to other cities which have airports and railway stations. This article aims to offer a comprehensive guide using all three methods to reach Daman.
1. Daman ke liye Hava se Safar (Daman by Air)
A. Daman ke Sabse Kareeb Hawai Adde (Closest Airports to Daman)
As of now, Daman does not have a commercial airport. However, you can reach Surat and Mumbai airports. They both serve as good alternatives to a fully fledged commercial airport.
B. Surat International Airport (STV)
Surat Airport is situated near Magdalla, where flights arriving from and departing to Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Kolkata are ferried. This makes STV the closest airport to Daman. Operating airlines: IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet. You can get a cab or a private taxi to Daman from Surat Airport, and the journey will take about 2.5 to 3 hours via NH48.
2. Mumbai Airport (BOM)
Like all major airports in India, Mumbai Airport is a hub for international and domestic carriers. For foreign travelers coming to Daman, this is the easiest option. The road from Mumbai to Daman takes about 4 hours, and quite less without traffic.
B. Helicopter Service (Special Route)
Pawan Hans used to operate a helicopter service between Daman–Diu and some flights from Mumbai to Daman. These services are not currently available, though they might be irregularly provided at the off-season or for sightseeing. Tip: For any air travel, it is best to check the UT tourism website for the latest updates on bookings and schedules.
2. Reaching Daman by Train
Although there is no railway station in Daman, the Vapi Railway Station, which is 12 kilometers away, is very well connected Daman.
A. Closest Station: Vapi (Station Code: VAPI)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance to Daman | 12 kilometers |
| Travel Time | 20-30 minutes by taxi or auto |
| Raiway Line | Mumbai- Ahmedabad Western Line |
| Station Category | Major station with express train halts. |
Trains of Vapi Port Dammam:
| Train Name | From | Type | Frequent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gujarat Superfast Express | Mumbai | Superfast | Daily |
| Flying Ranee | Surat/Mumbai | Intercity | Daily |
| Karnavati Express | Ahmedabad | Superfast | Daily |
| Shatabdi Express | Ahmedabad | Premium | Daily |
| August Kranti Rajdhani | Delhi | Rajdhani | Daily |
Having access to these trains ensures convenience for anyone wishing to travel to Daman from anywhere in the country.
B. Daman Distant From Vapi
- Auto-rickshaws: Station located auto rickshaws cost ranging from ₹150 to ₹200 to Daman.
- Private taxi: Ideal for group travel or heavy baggage transport; Approximately ₹400 to ₹500.
- Local buses: Occasionally, GSRTC provides Daman to Vapi services.
- Travel Time: Average 20-30 minutes, but can vary with traffic.
3. Damans access via Roads
For people living in Mumbai, Surat, or Vadodara, road travel is the most convenient option. This route provides mesmerizing views along the way.
A. Driving to Daman
| City | Distance | Approx Travel time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 180 km | 3.5-4 hours | NH48 vias Thane, Manor, Vapi |
| Surat | 120 km | 2.5-3 hours | NH48 vias Navsari, Pardi |
| Vadodara | 260 km | 5-6 hours | NH48 vias Bharuch, Surat |
| Ahmedabad | 370 km | 7-8 hours | NH48 vias Vadodara, Surat |
| Pune | 330 km | 7-8 hours | via NH48 Mumbai, Manor, Vapi |
The journey to Daman is smooth and relaxing since the roads are well maintained.
B. State Transport Buses
GSRTC provides intercity bus services linking Daman with Surat, Ahmedabad, and even as far as Bhavnagar. These are usually non-AC, or semi deluxe buses. Booking can be done through GSRTC official portal.
C. Private Buses
Several private operators run luxury AC and non AC buses to Vapi and Daman from:
- Mumbai (Borivali, Dadar)
- Pune
- Ahmedabad
- Rajkot Some popular operators include:
- Patel Tours and Travels
- Shreenath Travels
- Raj Express Online ticket booking is available on RedBus, Paytm and MakeMyTrip.
Local Transport in Daman
Once you arrive in Daman, the local transport is easy and tourist friendly.
A. Auto-Rickshaws
- Most suitable for traversing short distances in Daman
- There are no meters, so negotiate the fare prior to boarding
B. Taxis
- They are conveniently located around prominent hotels and attractions
- Great for city tour packages or day rentals
C. Bike and Scooter Rentals
- Starting at ₹300 per day
- Located near Devka Beach, Fort Area and some resorts
5. Best Time to Visit Daman
| Season | months | Weather Condition | Travel Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Oct–Feb | Pleasant and cool | Best time for sightseeing and beaches |
| Summer | Mar–June | Hot and humid | Ideal for short weekend trips |
| Monsoon | July–Sept | Rainy Season | Lush landscapes Roads may be slippery, so plan accordingly. |
6. Sample Itinerary – Travel From Mumbai to Daman
Option 1: Auto + Train Combo
- Take the Gujarat Express departing at 7:10 AM from Mumbai Central
- Arrive at Vapi around 11:30 AM
- Catch an auto to Daman (30 min drive)
- Get to the hotel and start exploring at Devka Beach
Option 2: Self Drive
- Leave early (around 6:00 AM) to skip the Mumbai traffic
- Make a breakfast stop at Manor
- Arrive Daman 10:30 AM
- Check in then go to Jampore Beach or Fort Area
Travel Tips and Last Words
- During long weekends or holidays, book your train or bus ticket well in advance
- Daman is still within gujarat and is not covered under the liquor ban, hence you will find licensed bars and stores. Do drink responsibly.
- While driving use Google Maps, however, check the conditions of the road during the monsoon beforehand.
- Taste local cuisine—seafood is cheap and fresh, like pomfret and prawns.
- Daman is small in size. You can cover major spots in 2 days.
While Daman lacks an airport or commercial railway station, it is within easy reach of these transport links. Daman is close to Mumbai and Surat, has good highways, and Vapi railway station is not too far. For those visiting by road, it’s a fantastic coastal escape with friends. A train ride will do, or even a reception from Surat Airport. This guide guarantees your trip planning will be straightforward and seamless.
With all transportation options in mind, it’s time to pack your bags and uncover the hidden beauty of Daman and why it’s considered one of India’s best coastal secrets.
