Located along the Arabian Sea, Dumas Beach is a popular destination near Surat, Gujarat, known for its picturesque beauty, street food, and somewhat unusual reputation for being a haunted site. This combination of beauty and mystery makes Dumas Beach an interesting spot for both domestic and international travelers.
Historically, the tourism at Dumas Beach began to flourish as it became known as an urban getaway for the people of Surat and nearby cities. Being one of the closest beach destinations to the diamond city, it offered a respite from the bustling life of the metropolis. Over the years, the local authorities started developing the beach to make it more tourist-friendly, contributing to the steady growth of visitors to the area.
Another pivotal point in Dumas Beach's history is the spread of stories regarding its supernatural activities. It is believed that because it used to be a Hindu cremation ground, the beach is haunted, and many paranormal enthusiasts flock to the beach to experience this eerie aspect, especially during the nighttime, although it is not recommended or allowed for safety reasons.
In addition, the early 2000s saw an increase in governmental efforts to promote tourism within Gujarat. The successful 'Khushboo Gujarat Ki' campaign, which featured Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, also helped in boosting tourist numbers to notable locations within the state, including Dumas Beach.
In recent years, there has been a shift towards more sustainable and responsible tourism practices in Gujarat. Efforts are directed towards minimizing the environmental impact of tourism on the beautiful, yet fragile, coastal ecosystems. Eco-friendly initiatives and community involvement in tourism activities have begun to be more emphasized to ensure that the local culture and environment are preserved while still welcoming tourists.
Additionally, the rise of social media has transformed how destinations like Dumas Beach are marketed and experienced. There is a growing trend of visitors documenting their travels on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, making Dumas Beach a photogenic destination for the tech-savvy younger generation looking to capture the perfect sunset shot or a candid moment by the seashore.
The local cuisine, particularly the beachside snacks and street food, has also become a significant part of the tourist experience at Dumas Beach. Food tourism is on the rise, with visitors eager to try the local specialties such as 'Bhajia', which has put Dumas on the map not just for the leisure traveler but also for the culinary explorer.
Despite these trends, Dumas Beach maintains a sense of nostalgia and simplicity, remaining a place where people can enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline, relax by the sea, and indulge in leisure activities like horse riding and camel rides, making it an evergreen destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
