Temples of Goa

After retirement, Mr and Mrs Mahadevan visited Goa. They were not so interested in beach life, so they explored the rich temple heritage of North Goa, visiting many sacred shrines.

Goa has a rich and ancient Hindu tradition.  Ponda taluka in South Goa, 28 km from Panaji, has many impressive temples that you can visit.

Important Temples:

Shantadurga Temple - This temple built by Shivaji's grandson, Shahuji, is the most-visited shrine. It is 3 km from Ponda town. It is built in an unusual pagoda style and has a grand central hall with chandeliers and carved silver screens around the main deity.

Shri Ramnath Temple - is walking distance from Shantadurga temple. It has an ancient Shiva linga, which is sheltered by a gorgeous silver screen with carvings of animals, plants and flowers.

Shri Laxmi Narasimha - This temple is surrounded by forest and is 5 km from Ponda. It has an enormous statue of Narasimha and a water tank with an impressive gateway.

Shri Mahalsa Temple - is 7 km north west of Ponda. It has an unusual brass pillar of 21 tiers. The main hall has carved wooden pillars and paintings of gods and goddesses. The inner sanctum is also richly carved of wood.

Shri Mangesh Temple - this is in the village from which Lata Mangeshkar hails. It is Goa's richest temple, and many festivals are held here by the local people, including the jatra festival of dance-dramas in April and May.

Tambdi Surla Temple - This is a rock cut temple dating from the 12th century. The entire temple is made out of black stone slabs with no concrete or mortar used. Inside are intricate carvings of Vishnu, Shiva and Parvati. The temple is a bit remote (45 km east of Panaji) but is worth the drive.