Image source: atul sethi
About Anjidiva Island
| Location | Off the coast of Karnataka, near Karwar, India |
| State | Goa (administratively), geographically closer to Karnataka |
| Total Area | Approximately 1.5 square kilometers |
| Significance | Historically important island with Portuguese colonial influence and naval significance |
| Best Time to Visit | November to March: The weather is pleasant |
| Accessibility | By Boat from Karwar (Entry restricted as it falls under the Indian Navy) |
| Historical Significance | Anjidiva Fort (Built by the Portuguese in 1505) Church of St. Francis of Assisi (Built in 1505, later rebuilt) Ruins of Portuguese settlements Scenic coastline and natural beauty |
| Current Status | Under the control of the Indian Navy; restricted public access |
| How to Reach? | Nearest City: Karwar, Karnataka By Road: Reach Karwar via NH 66 By Boat: Access to the island is restricted, but special permissions may be granted |
| Nearby Attractions | Karwar Beach (10 km) Devbagh Beach (11 km) Sadashivgad Fort (12 km) |
Spread over an area of 1.5 sq km, Anjidiva Island, Anjediva Island, and Anjadip Island are located in the Arabian Sea of South Goa. Although the village is situated just 2 km from Karnataka, legally it is part of the state of Karnataka. Its an archipelago that consists of five islands: Anjadiva, Kurnagal, Mudlingud, Devgad, and Devragad. The island is home to the Indian Navy, so sometimes access to the island is prohibited, so its necessary to contact the authority.
The Anjadip Island occupied an area of 1.5 sq km; it is the largest of the Karwar Panchadiva chain of five islands, and the other four are Kurnagal, Mudlingud, Devgad, and Devragad. Anji stands for five in Tamil, and it denotes the 5th island. This idyllic island is home to the Indian Navy, so before going there, please contact.
Historical connection
The legendary sailor Vasco Da Gama and a Jewish trader Gaspar Da Gama requested the king of Portugal to create a naval fort in the region of Anjadiva to gain administrative control of Goa. Anjadiva Fort is present on the Anjadip Island. Currently the fort lies in ruins, and the Church of Our Lady of Springs, which was constructed in the year is close to it. However, this fort was deserted by the Portuguese during the year 1843. The Hindus and Christians used the fort as a shelter when Portuguese territory was attacked by Tipu Sultan. On 19th December, 1961, Anjadiva Fort officially was declared a part of India.
The island is known for its annual feast of Our Lady of Springs, known as ‘Nossa Senhora das Brotas’ on 2nd February and the feast of the Chapel of St. Francis D’Assisi on 4th October.
How to Reach
You have to take a boat from the main port of Karwar to reach Anjadiva Island.
Maps and Location
Faq’s
1. Where is Anjidiva Island located?
Anjidiva Island lies off the coast of Karwar in the state of Karnataka, close to the Goa border in the Arabian Sea.
2. Is Anjidiva Island open to tourists?
No, the island is currently under the control of the Indian Navy, so general public access is restricted. Visitors are usually not allowed without special permission.
3. Why is Anjidiva Island historically important?
The island has a rich colonial past and was once occupied by the Portuguese. It is known for its old fortifications, churches, and as a strategic maritime base during earlier centuries.
4. Can I visit Anjidiva Island by boat?
Regular tourist boat services to the island are not available due to security restrictions. Occasionally, special permissions or official visits may allow access, but this is rare.
5. What are the main attractions on Anjidiva Island?
Some notable features include:
- Ruins of Portuguese-era forts.
- Old churches like Our Lady of Springs Church.
- Scenic coastal views and rocky landscapes.
6. What is the best time to visit Anjidiva Island (if permitted)?
The ideal time would be between October and March, when the weather along the coast is pleasant and suitable for travel.
7. Are there accommodation facilities on the island?
No, there are no hotels or stay options on the island due to its restricted status.