Silvassa (Dadra and Nagar Haveli), Dec 31: In the wake of the recent terror attacks, people in Mumbai are going out to celebrate their New Year in western coastal enclaves of Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

With easy access coupled with dense forest area and favourable climate, Dadra and Nagar Haveli are emerging as new tourist destinations. The prominent places of tourist interest are Tadekeshwar Shiva Mandir, Deer Park, Vanganga Lake and Island Garden and Mini Zoo.

The coastal enclaves are full with tourists on the New Year eve.

"Why people come to Silvassa is mainly because of security. There is no traffic jam. One can stay comfortably amidst the nature," said A D Nikam, Deputy Director, Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

People of Mumbai are choosing Silvassa, the principal town of Dadra and Nagar Haveli for the celebrations because of closer proximity. Moreover, they feel these enclaves to be safe compared to other parts of the country.

"All over India this place is peaceful. No sort of communal violence and terrorist attacks have ever happened here. People coming from Mumbai, Delhi and Surat. All feel safe to be here. Even the foreigners feel safe to be here," said Miraaj Bhatani, a resident.

Surrounded by Gujarat and Maharashtra, Dadra and Nagar Haveli with an area of 491 sq km. is the smallest territory of the country directly administered by the Central Government.

Formerly a Portuguese territory, Dadra and Nagar Haveli were merged with the Indian Union on August 11, 1961. (ANI)