Weather: 23°C - 32°C (Ideal for Outdoor Activities)
Label: Great For Family Outing
Tags: Island, Heritage, Nature
Timings: 24 Hours
Time Required: 1 Day
Best Time to Visit: Anytime (Festivals are a highlight)

Overview:
Nestled just 10 km from Panjim, Divar Island is a serene haven that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. This secluded paradise is surrounded by dense woods, lush paddy fields, and historical remnants, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Often called a "village stuck in time," Divar Island remains largely unexplored by mass tourism, making it a hidden gem for those seeking tranquillity and scenic beauty.

Divar Island is separated from Old Goa by a ferry service, adding to the charm of this unspoiled location. Dotted with vintage Portuguese-style houses, traditional churches, and narrow winding lanes, it offers a glimpse into Goa's rich heritage. The island is not just about sightseeing but about experiencing a slower pace of life, far removed from the popular party culture of other Goa beaches.

The name Divar comes from the Konkani word ‘dipavati’, meaning small island, and it indeed lives up to its name with a simple yet charming landscape. Ideal for those who enjoy peace and history, the island provides an opportunity to explore at your own pace while soaking in its natural beauty.

Things to Do at Divar Island:

  • Explore Piedade: A beautiful village that reflects the essence of traditional Goan life. Visit the Church of Our Lady of Compassion, a blend of Kadamba and Portuguese architecture.
  • Visit Sao Mathias: Known as a village “stuck in time,” it’s home to a 400-year-old church and the picturesque Malar village.
  • Discover Naroa Village: The site of ancient Hindu shrines, now known for its ghost town allure, and the famous Koti Tirtha Tali.
  • Relax and Enjoy Festivals: Divar Island comes alive during festivals like Bonderam and Potekar, where locals celebrate with traditional music, costumes, and vibrant festivities.

Festivals to Experience:

  • Bonderam: A lively festival celebrated on the 4th Saturday of August, filled with music and colorful costumes, honoring the villagers' fight against Portuguese boundary systems.
  • Potekar: A three-day festivity where locals dress in homemade masks and costumes, seeking snacks from villagers, resembling Halloween.
  • Feast of Our Lord Redeemer: A traditional feast held in November, honoring the miraculous Lord Redeemer image that draws worshippers from across Goa.

Food on Divar Island:
Indulge in authentic Goan cuisine, especially the famous Urak (a milder version of cashew fenny) and prawn specialties. The island's local eateries offer a taste of traditional Goan flavors in a laid-back setting.

History of Divar Island:
Once a significant site for Hindu pilgrimages, Divar Island has a rich cultural past. It was Christianized by the Portuguese after a devastating plague, and remnants of old Hindu temples like Shri Saptakoteshwar can still be found. Today, the island is a peaceful abode, but traces of its historical significance can be spotted in its ancient architecture and traditional Goan lifestyle.

How to Reach Divar Island:

  • By Ferry: Divar Island is connected to Old Goa through three ferry terminals:
  1. Piedade/Goltim terminal (6:00 AM - 2:15 PM)
  2. Navelim/St. Pedro terminal (6:30 AM - 12:45 PM)
  3. Naroa terminal (6:00 AM - 12:00 AM)

By Car/Bike: Drive to Panjim, then take the ferry. Public Transport: You can reach the ferry terminals via local buses or taxis.