+91 9971-466-955
product@alphonsostories.com
Pick one of the 1 locals available on this tour
Available languages: Hind,English
This tour offers a different flavour of Goa’s legendary charms to that on the mainland and its madding crowds, as we set off on a leisurely exploration of one of the prettiest islands on the Mandovi River. Divar Island comprises three main villages Piedade, Malar and Naroa. In the course of our wanderings, we will encounter the life of the past and present of this lesser-known riverine retreat, including its top religious shrines, a unique rock cave and a temple pond dating back nearly a thousand years.
Legend has it that Divar Island was once filled with so many shrines it was considered a pilgrimage hub before the Portuguese captured it and destroyed many of them; amongst these was the much revered Saptakoteshwar Temple, considered as one of the important Shiva temples on the Konkan coast. We will walk to the ruins of this temple, which used to house the Kul Devta, or family deity, of the legendary Kadamba kings. Originally known as Koti Tirth it is now referred to as Porne Tirth. The new home of the deity now is Narve, a short ferry ride away.
Divar Island is home to many beautiful Portuguese structures. Passing the Nossa Senhora de Piedade Church stands the sun-drenched art deco house owned by the Albuquerque family known to be rich landowners and very well-connected. The island has some impressive Portuguese architecture you will discover on your wanderings. We will be welcomed in the home of one of Divar Island’s leading personalities, where we will explore the mysteries of Feni-making and the many variations of Goa’s top tipple. We will then take a guided walk through the fields to a man-made lake, where we can dive in and even try our hand at fishing the traditional way.
product@alphonsostories.com | +91 956 093 0445
Images Credit - Soul Travelling
An extravaganza of experiential stories, from famous landmarks to hidden gems.
Led with passion by our community of experience curators.
Connecting travellers to the people, traditions, and the local culture
Delhi, India
Varanasi, India
Thekkady, India
Mumbai, India
Darjeeling, India
We use cookies to improve your website experience. By navigating our site, you agree to allow us to use cookies, in accordance with our Cookie Policy