Divar, River island in Goa, India
Divar is a river island in the Mandovi that is divided into three villages called Piedade, Malar, and Naroa, each with its own character and layout. The island sits at roughly 8 meters (26 feet) elevation and features a mix of paddy fields, coconut groves, houses from different eras, and quiet lanes connecting the settlements.
Originally called Devawadi, meaning home of the Gods, the island was an important religious center before Portuguese colonizers arrived in the mid-16th century. Portuguese rule brought major changes, including the destruction of ancient temples and a shift in the island's religious and social structures.
The Bonderam festival happens on the fourth Saturday of August, with colorful floats parading through streets to represent different sections of the island. This celebration is when the community expresses its strong connection to the place and its traditions.
Ferries connect the island to three points on the mainland: Old Goa, Naroa, and Ribandar, running from early morning to late evening. The regular ferry service makes it easy to arrive and explore different parts of the island at your own pace.
The Potekar tradition is a curious local practice where residents wear masks and bells three days before Lent begins. This custom shows how local and European influences have mixed over the centuries to create something distinctly different from what exists elsewhere.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
