Divar Island Things To Do

Boasting a natural setting, with the lush green landscapes of the island home to palm trees and paddy fields, many visitors are content to just sit back and enjoy the peaceful scenery and ambience. Walks and bike rides through the tranquil countryside make for relaxing days out, with great views out across the Mandovi River and over the hilltops to Panjim and Old Goa.

 

Hotels on Divar Island offer a range of recreational activities, from swimming pools, tennis courts and basketball to jogging tracks and bike rental.

 

As well as the ferry which departs to Panjim, and makes just a short journey from the south of the island, there are other riverside boat trips to take on the north end of Divar Island. 

 

An age-old therapy that rejuvenates the mind, body and soul, ayurvedic medicine   features natural remedies and holistic treatments as well as body wraps, mud baths and massages, all of which can be experienced on a stay on the island. There are jacuzzis, saunas and steam rooms in which to relax, and a number of yoga and meditation classes in which to participate.

 

There are a number of Hindu temples to visit on Divar Island including Shri Ganesh Temple, whilst the Church of Our Lady of Compassion sits high on a hilltop in Piedade, with great views out across the countryside, and boasts an ornate facade but simple interior.  

 

Divar Island plays host each year to the Bonderam Festival, or Feast of the Harvest, which takes place on the last Saturday in August and attracts many locals and visitors alike, despite being the monsoon season. The festival boasts a carnival-like atmosphere with colourful floats, music and plenty of food.          

 

Visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on the neighbouring island of Chorao, or head to the local beaches at Miramar or Dona Paula. Take the ferry and explore the old streets of Panjim, with its diverse architecture, tree-line avenues and squares, and interesting shopping and dining. For a change of pace, hire a taxi or take the bus to Mapusa on market day for a colourful scene, head to the famous Anjuna flea market held every week, or travel along the coast and tour the beach resorts such as Calangute and Candolim.