16/08/2020
There is something unique about Divar Island - The unexplored side of Goa !
Divar Island, An escape to the unexplored side of !
Paddy fields, mangrove swamps, winding roads, chirping of birds, quaint villages, ruins of temples and monuments of religious significance & traces of culture: Churches, Chapels and colorful houses with Portuguese influence in its colonial architecture and taking you back in time to a different space in Goa. Divar, derived from Konkani "Divaddi", translating "small island", was the historic capital of the state during the Portuguese times. It was once a pilgrimage place and home to many Hindu temples. During the Muslim followed by Portuguese invasion and the drive, the temples were destroyed, deities were shifted to other locations in Goa, remnants of which can be seen.
The island sits on river, 10 KMS from , accessible only by ferry services.You can board along with your bicycle, bike, or car on the ferry ride.There are 3 operational jettys: , and which takes you to different parts/villages of the island. You can explore the 6 kms long island on your gear or simply walk down the quiet stretches.
There are broadly 3 villages in Divar : , Matias (now Malar) & .The ferry ride from Old Goa takes you to the Piedade village, home to the famous Church of Our Lady of Compassion(also known as Our Lady of Piety), sitting on the top of the hillock, a vantage point , giving you a panoramic 360 degree view of the Mandovi river and Old Goa, one of the top places in Goa ! Beside the Church, there is a cemetery for rulers of Kadamba dynasty. The cemetery has a small chapel, once an ancient Ganesha temple. The village of Malar is accessible by ferry from Old Goa and Ribander and home to the Sao Mathias Church, a beautiful 400 year old church, part of bonderam festival every year,The Konkan Railway, which passes through Malar, makes it all the more picturesque.Naroa, a village with barely 80 houses was once a pilgrimage site. Keeping alive the history are 2 shrines, Naro Fort and Koti Tirth(Porne Tirth) Tali, once a site of 108 temples and Saptakoteshwar temple(Shivalingam), which was later relocated to Narve in Bicholim by the Hindus.
Two of the popular festivals are celebrated every year in this island: and and attract people from all over the world.Bonderam is a monsoon festival, the carnival takes place on the fourth Saturday in the month of August, bringing out traditional float parade and performances by famous music bands of Goa.Potekar, A festival of costumes, masks & cowbells, celebrated three days before Lent and can be called as "Halloween of Divar", with a spooky touch in the celebrations.
There are many , and 's available in Divar for stay. is one of the top places for the goan Portuguese experience. The famous wellness retreat , is also situated on this island. Highly recommended for people who are looking for , and treatments.
There are hardly any food joints in Divar, more of local tea stalls where you should surely try out some Mirchi Pakoras. Locals can also get you one of the best prepared . For food, opt for dining with the locals in their traditional goan houses. Few day tour packages include dining/high tea in heritage homes.
The authentic old Goa town "Divar" has preserved its old charm keeping the tradition alive.Divar is a place for someone to unwind, meditate, go for long walks or rides, fishing, taste the Portuguese flavor, discover cultural heritage and the lifestyle of Goa. The best way to explore this Goan village and river island is on bicycles.You can also opt for 1 day tours/cycling/bike tours lead by locals. Don't forget to carry your camera for the perfect Instagram pics ! If you want to book your tour to Divar, You may contact Tiara Holidays They offer experiential tours tailored as per your preference.
Goa Tourism Department Divar Island
