Divar Island: A Step Back in Time

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Discover the serene charm of Divar Island: a Goan paradise of history, culture, and natural beauty, far from the tourist crowds.

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Divar Island

Escape the Goan crowds on Divar Island, a serene haven in the Mandovi River. Explore Portuguese-era architecture, ancient temples, and lush paddy fields, experiencing a slower pace of life far removed from the bustling beaches.

A brief summary to Divar Island

Goa, IN

Local tips

Take the ferry from Old Goa (near Viceroy's Arch) to Piedade for a convenient and scenic entry point to Divar Island.
Explore the island by renting a bicycle to fully appreciate the serene landscapes and traditional Goan life.
Visit during the Bonderam festival (usually the last Saturday of August) to experience the island's vibrant cultural celebrations.
Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the churches, temples and other historical sites.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, take a local bus to Old Goa. Buses are frequent and the ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes. From Old Goa, walk to the Piedade ferry terminal, near the Viceroy's Arch. The ferry to Divar Island is free for pedestrians. Buses from Panjim to Old Goa typically cost ₹20-₹30.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From Dabolim Airport, hire a taxi or use the Goa Miles app to book a ride to the Piedade ferry terminal in Old Goa. The taxi ride will cost approximately ₹500-₹700 and take about 45 minutes, depending on traffic. From the ferry terminal, the ferry to Divar Island is free for passengers.
Ferry

Ferries are the only way to access Divar Island. The most common route is from the Old Goa jetty to the Piedade terminal on Divar. Ferries operate frequently, approximately every 30 minutes, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The ferry is free for pedestrians and two-wheelers. There is a nominal fee of ₹10 for four-wheelers.

Discover more about Divar Island

Divar Island, located 10 km upriver from Panjim, offers a tranquil escape from the typical Goan tourist experience. This island in the Mandovi River is accessible only by ferry, which helps preserve its unique Goan culture and ambiance. Once a significant Hindu pilgrimage site with temples dedicated to Saptakoteshwar, Ganesh, Mahamaya and Dwarkeshwar, the island's religious landscape shifted with the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century. Today, Divar is characterized by its well-preserved Portuguese-era architecture, evident in its churches and traditional houses. The island is divided into three main villages: Piedade, Malar (formerly São Matias), and Naroa, each offering a glimpse into Goan life. Highlights include the Church of Our Lady of Compassion in Piedade, known for its architecture and panoramic views; the São Mathias Church in Malar, a 400-year-old structure; and the ruins of the Kadamba dynasty in Piedade. Divar is also known for its festivals, including Bonderam, a lively celebration with mock fights and flag parades held annually on the last Saturday of August, and Potekar, a unique local version of Halloween. The island offers scenic beauty with its lush paddy fields and views of the Mandovi River. Visitors can explore the island by bicycle, immersing themselves in the laid-back Goan lifestyle. Don't miss the sluice gates, ingenious mechanisms used to manage tidal pressure and prevent flooding. Divar Island provides a unique and memorable experience for those seeking a different side of Goa.