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 Anjediva Island
Reaching Anjediva Island is a bit different from visiting most tourist destinations because the island falls within the strategically important Indian Navy’s INS Kadamba (Project Seabird) area near Karwar. Public access is often restricted, and visitors may require special permission before planning a trip.
By Road
The nearest mainland town is Karwar in Karnataka, located on National Highway 66. Karwar is well connected to Goa, Gokarna, Hubballi, Mangaluru, and Bengaluru by KSRTC and private buses.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Karwar Railway Station, which lies on the Konkan Railway route. Regular trains connect Karwar with Mumbai, Goa, Mangaluru, Kochi, and other major cities. From the station, visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to the Karwar port area.
By Air
The nearest airports are Goa International Airport and Manohar International Airport. From either airport, Karwar can be reached by road or train in approximately 2–3 hours depending on traffic and route.
By Boat
Traditionally, the island could be reached by boat from Karwar Port. However, since the island is under naval control, boat services are not generally available for tourists. Access is subject to security regulations and prior approval from the concerned naval authorities.
Important Note
Before planning a visit, it is advisable to verify the latest access status with local authorities in Karwar. The island has remained restricted for long periods because of security considerations related to the naval base, and civilian entry is frequently prohibited.
Most travelers visiting the area combine a coastal tour of Karwar, Devbagh Beach, Sadashivgad Fort, and Gokarna with distant views of Anjediva Island rather than attempting to visit the island itself.
Nearby Attractions to Anjediva Island
Located off the coast of Karwar near the Goa-Karnataka border, Anjediva Island is a historically significant island known for its Portuguese-era fort, ancient churches, and strategic naval importance. Since public access to the island is often restricted due to its proximity to the Indian Navy’s INS Kadamba base, most visitors explore the surrounding attractions in the Karwar region.
1. Karwar Beach
One of the most popular beaches in coastal Karnataka, Karwar Beach offers golden sands, beautiful sunsets, and views of the Arabian Sea. The calm atmosphere makes it ideal for evening walks and relaxation. It is located about 10 km from the mainland access point near Anjediva Island.
2. Devbagh Beach
Situated at the confluence of the Kali River and the Arabian Sea, Devbagh Beach is famous for water sports, dolphin spotting, and pristine surroundings. The beach is less crowded than many Goa beaches and is perfect for nature lovers.
3. Sadashivgad Fort
Overlooking the Kali River estuary, this historic fort offers panoramic views of Karwar, the river, and the coastline. Built during the reign of the Marathas, it is an excellent destination for history enthusiasts and photographers.
4. INS Chapal Warship Museum
Located on Rabindranath Tagore Beach in Karwar, this museum is housed inside a retired missile boat of the Indian Navy. Visitors can learn about India’s naval history and maritime defense systems.
5. Rabindranath Tagore Beach
Named after the Nobel laureate who was inspired by Karwar’s scenic beauty, this beach features a long promenade, musical fountains, and stunning sunset views. It is among the most visited attractions in Karwar.
6. Kali River Estuary
The meeting point of the Kali River and the Arabian Sea creates a picturesque landscape. Boat rides through the estuary provide opportunities to observe mangroves, birdlife, and coastal ecosystems.
7. Kurumgad Island
A turtle-shaped island off the Karwar coast, Kurumgad is known for its beaches, trekking opportunities, and the ancient Narasimha Temple. During the annual temple festival, devotees arrive by boats from the mainland.
8. Tilmati Beach
Located south of Karwar, Tilmati Beach is famous for its unusual black-colored sand formed from basaltic rock deposits. The secluded setting makes it one of the hidden gems of the Uttara Kannada coast.
9. Gokarna
About 60 km from Karwar, Gokarna is renowned for the sacred Mahabaleshwar Temple and picturesque beaches such as Om Beach, Kudle Beach, and Half Moon Beach. It is a perfect combination of pilgrimage and coastal tourism.
10. Anjediva Fort and Church Ruins
When access is permitted, visitors can view the remnants of the Portuguese-built fort, the historic Church of Our Lady of Springs, and St. Francis of Assisi Chapel, which reflect the island’s rich colonial heritage.
Together, Anjediva Island and the surrounding Karwar coastline offer a fascinating blend of maritime history, Portuguese heritage, beaches, islands, forts, and scenic natural landscapes, making the region one of the most underrated destinations on India’s western coast.
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.
