Have you ever dreamed of visiting a hidden island paradise in Goa? A place where you can escape the crowds and noise of the mainland and enjoy the natural beauty, serenity, and tranquillity of a quaint village? If yes, then you should definitely add Divar Island to your bucket list.
Divar Island is a small island in the Mandovi River, about 10 km from Panjim, the capital city of Goa. It is one of the few places in Goa that has preserved its rich history, culture, and heritage. Divar Island was once a thriving Hindu settlement that was destroyed by Muslim invaders and Portuguese colonizers. Today, it is home to some remnants of its past, such as temples, churches, chapels, and monuments. Divar Island is also known for its festivals, such as Bonderam and Potekar, that showcase its vibrant and colorful spirit.
Divar Island is not your typical tourist destination in Goa. It does not have any beaches, shacks, or nightclubs. Instead, it offers a unique and tranquil experience to visitors who want to explore its culture and history, witness its festivals and events, admire its architecture and scenery, indulge in its food and drinks, and relax in its peaceful atmosphere. Divar Island is a place where time stands still and nature reveals its beauty.
If you are looking for a different and memorable experience in Goa, then you should definitely visit Divar Island. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Divar Island, such as how to reach it, where to stay on it, what to do on it, and some tips and tricks for visiting it. Read on to find out more.
How to Reach Divar Island
The only way to reach Divar Island is by a government-run ferry service that operates from three different points in Goa: Old Goa, Naroa, and Ribandar. You cannot reach the island by road or by any other means of transport. Here are the details of the ferry service from each point:
Old Goa:
This is the most popular and convenient point to reach Divar Island from Panjim or other parts of North Goa. The ferry terminal is near the Viceroy's Arch in Old Goa. The ferry runs from 6 am to 2 am (subject to weather conditions) and takes about 15 minutes to reach Piedade terminal on the south-east side of Divar Island. The ferry is free for passengers and costs INR 10 for four-wheelers.
Naroa:
This is another point to reach Divar Island from North Goa, especially if you are coming from Bicholim or Mapusa. The ferry terminal is in Naroa village in Bicholim district. The ferry runs from 7 am to 8 pm (subject to weather conditions) and takes about 20 minutes to reach Naroa terminal on the north side of Divar Island.
Ribandar:
This is another point to reach Divar Island from Panjim or other parts of Central Goa. The ferry terminal is in Ribandar village near Chorao Island. The ferry runs from 7 am to 8 pm (subject to weather conditions) and takes about 30 minutes to reach Ribandar terminal on the south-west side of Divar Island.
Each point has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on your location, availability of parking space, scenic views, etc. You can choose the point that suits you best or try different points on different days to explore different sides of the island.
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Where to Stay on Divar Island
Divar Island has a variety of accommodation options available for visitors who want to spend a night or more on the island. You can choose from hotels, resorts, homestays, villas, etc. depending on your budget, location preference, amenities requirement, reviews rating, etc. Here are some of the best places to stay on Divar Island based on different criteria:
Luxury: If you want to splurge on a luxurious stay on Divar Island, then you should book your room at Mercure Goa Devaaya Resort . This is a five-star resort that offers spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the river or the garden. The resort also has a spa, a fitness center, a yoga center, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, and a lounge. The resort is located on the north side of the island near Naroa terminal. The price range is from INR 7,000 to INR 15,000 per night.
Comfort: If you want to enjoy a comfortable stay on Divar Island, then you should book your room at Divar Island Guest House Retreat . This is a three-star guest house that offers cozy rooms with air-conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi, etc. The guest house also has a spa, a library, a garden, a restaurant, and a bar. The guest house is located on the south-east side of the island near Piedade terminal. The price range is from INR 3,000 to INR 5,000 per night.
Value for Money: If you want to get the best value for your money on Divar Island, then you should book your room at Divar Island Resort . This is a two-star resort that offers basic rooms with fan, TV, Wi-Fi, etc. The resort also has a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar. The resort is located on the south-west side of the island near Ribandar terminal. The price range is from INR 1,500 to INR 3,000 per night.
What To Do On Divar Island
Divar Island has a lot of activities and attractions that visitors can enjoy on the island. You can explore its culture and history, witness its festivals and events, admire its architecture and scenery, indulge in its food and drinks, and relax in its peaceful atmosphere. Here are some of the things that you can do on Divar Island:
Culture and History
Divar Island has a rich and diverse culture and history that dates back to centuries. You can learn more about its past and present by visiting some of the places that showcase its heritage and legacy. For example:
The ruins of Kadamba Dynasty in Piedade: This is one of the most fascinating places on Divar Island that tells the story of its religious transformations. This hilltop site was once home to a Ganesh Temple that was demolished by Muslim troops and later converted into a church and a chapel by Christians.
You can see the carvings and stone tracery that date back to the 14th century Kadamba dynasty inside the chapel. You can also enjoy the panoramic views of the Mandovi River and Old Goa from this site.
The Church of Our Lady of Compassion: This is one of the most beautiful churches on Divar Island that was built in 1599 by Jesuits on the site of a Hindu temple dedicated to Narsimha. You can admire its architectural features such as the dome, the bell tower, the altars, etc. You can also see the views of the river and the island from this church.
The Museum of Christian Art: This is one of the most unique museums on Divar Island that showcases the art and culture of Goa's Christian community. You can see some of the exhibits that display paintings, sculptures, silverware, furniture, etc. that reflect the influence of Portuguese and Indian styles.
Festivals and Events
Divar Island celebrates some unique festivals and events that reflect its culture and identity. You can witness some of these festivals and events that take place throughout the year and join in the fun and festivities. For example:
Bonderam: This is one of the most popular festivals on Divar Island that is celebrated every fourth Saturday of August with a carnival-like parade of floats representing different parts of the island. You can see the colorful and creative floats made by locals using bamboo poles, cloth, paper, etc. You can also enjoy the music, dance, food, drinks, etc. that accompany the parade.
Potekar: This is one of the most interesting festivals on Divar Island that is celebrated three days before Lent with locals wearing handmade masks and bells and roaming around the island. You can see how this festival is similar to Halloween as locals dress up as ghosts, witches, animals, etc. and scare or prank each other. You can also join them in their fun and mischief.
Feast of Our Lady of Compassion: This is one of the most sacred festivals on Divar Island that is celebrated on August 15 with a mass at the church followed by a procession around the island. You can see how this festival coincides with India's Independence Day as locals hoist flags and sing patriotic songs along with religious hymns. You can also participate in their prayers and blessings.
Architecture and Scenery
Divar Island is dotted with vintage houses built in Portuguese style that add to its charm and beauty. You can admire some of these houses that can be seen on the island and learn more about their history and owners. For example:
The House of Bostock: This is one of the oldest houses on Divar Island that was built in the 18th century by a British officer who married a Goan lady. You can see its features such as the veranda, the balustrade, the arches, etc. that reflect the colonial era. You can also visit the nearby Bostock Chapel that was built by the same officer.
The House of Menezes Braganza Pereira: This is one of the most prominent houses on Divar Island that was built in the 19th century by a wealthy Goan family. You can see its features such as the tiled roof, the wooden windows, the azulejos, etc. that reflect the Portuguese influence. You can also visit the nearby Menezes Braganza Pereira Institute that was founded by the same family.
The House of Miranda: This is one of the most famous houses on Divar Island that was built in the 20th century by a renowned Goan poet and writer. You can see its features such as the garden, the library, the paintings, etc. that reflect the artistic and literary flair. You can also visit the nearby Miranda Museum that displays some of his works and memorabilia.
Divar Island also offers some stunning scenery that you can enjoy on the island. You can admire the views of the Mandovi River, the green paddy fields, the hills, and the sky from different points on the island. You can also capture some amazing photos and videos of these views. For example:
Divar Island Viewpoint: This is one of the best places to enjoy a panoramic view of Divar Island and its surroundings. You can see the river, the island, Old Goa, Panjim, etc. from this point. You can also enjoy a picnic or a sunset at this point.
Divar Island Jetty: This is one of the best places to enjoy a close view of the Mandovi River and its activities. You can see the ferry boats, the fishing boats, the birds, etc. from this point. You can also enjoy a boat ride or a fishing trip from this point.
Divar Island Road: This is one of the best places to enjoy a scenic drive or a bike ride on Divar Island. You can see the houses, the fields, the churches, etc. from this road. You can also stop at any place that catches your eye or interest.
What & Where To Eat Near Divar Island
Divar Island offers a variety of food and drinks that reflect its diverse and rich cuisine. You can try some of these dishes and beverages that are prepared with local ingredients and flavors. You can also taste some of the specialties and delicacies that are unique to Divar Island. For example:
Fish Curry Rice: This is the staple dish of Goa that consists of rice served with a spicy curry made with fish, coconut milk, and spices. You can find this dish at almost any restaurant or cafe on Divar Island. You can also try different varieties of fish such as kingfish, pomfret, mackerel, etc.
Sannas: These are steamed rice cakes that are fluffy and soft. They are usually eaten with curries or sweets. You can find these cakes at some of the local bakeries or shops on Divar Island. You can also try different flavors such as plain, coconut, jaggery, etc.
Feni: This is a local alcoholic drink made from cashew or coconut. It has a strong smell and taste and is often mixed with soda or juice. You can find this drink at some of the bars or pubs on Divar Island. You can also try different brands such as Cazulo, Big Boss, Rhea, etc.
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Tips and Tricks for Visiting Divar Island
Here are some useful tips and tricks for visitors who want to make the most of their trip to Divar Island:
1. Plan your trip in advance and book your accommodation and ferry tickets beforehand to avoid any hassle or disappointment.
2. Check the weather forecast and carry appropriate clothing and accessories for the season. For example, carry sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, etc. for summer and raincoats, umbrellas, etc. for monsoon.
3. Respect the local culture and customs and dress modestly when visiting religious places or attending festivals. For example, avoid wearing shorts, skirts, sleeveless tops, etc. when visiting churches or chapels.
4. Hire a local guide or rent a bicycle to explore the island at your own pace and discover its hidden gems. For example, visit the Divar Island Retreat for a relaxing spa session or enjoy a picnic at the Divar Island Viewpoint for a panoramic view of the island and the river.
5. Try some local delicacies and specialties at the island's restaurants and cafes. For example, visit Cafe Divar for a hearty breakfast or lunch or visit Bar Divar for a refreshing drink or snack.
Divar Island is a hidden paradise in Goa that offers a unique and tranquil experience to visitors. It is a place where you can explore its history, culture, festivals, attractions, and scenery. It is a place where you can indulge in its food and drinks and relax in its peaceful atmosphere.
Divar Island is a must-visit destination in Goa for anyone who wants to experience something different and memorable.
