Goa is usually associated with neon-lit clubs, beach parties, and white sand beaches. However, beyond that, there is so much more to see in Goa – especially its temples. Goa is home to a diverse population of both Hindus and Catholics, and while the churches in Goa are quite well-known, temples here are a whole different experience. So, let’s dive into some of the must-visit temples in Goa this monsoon season.
Why Monsoon Season Is The Best To Explore Goa’s Temples
You must be wondering why we think monsoon is the best season to explore temples in Goa. Well, to begin with, monsoons in Goa are a different ballgame altogether. The weather becomes cooler after humid Goan summers, and rain showers are persistent throughout the day. This is the time when you’ll find most of Goa enveloped in a lush and enchanting blanket of green as the landscape flourishes.
The Hindu month of Shravana also coincides with the monsoon season, usually starting in July. This month is when a lot of Hindu festivals are celebrated, and if you’re visiting Goa’s temple in this month, you might be able to witness some or the other celebrations. This makes the monsoon a truly enjoyable season to visit temples in Goa.
7 Must Visit Temples In Goa
Shanta Durga Temple
This temple also has a history dating back to more than 450 years and is a revered spiritual place of worship for Hindus in Goa. Shanta Durga Temple is dedicated to Goddess Shanta Durga, a form of the divine feminine energy, Shakti. Goddess Shanta Durga is believed to be the peacemaker between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. In fact, if you look at the iconography of the deity, you’ll see that she’s shown holding two serpents – one in each hand. These two serpents are believed to represent Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu!
The temple is built in the traditional Indo-Portuguese architectural style that you’ll find in most other temples in Goa. The pyramidal shikhara or spire is noticeable, and so is the deep stambha here. There is also a small lake near the temple with a potted tulsi plant in its center. Every year during Navratri, thousands of devotees flock to the Shanta Durga Temple to seek blessings from the deity.
Address: Kapileswari – Kavlem Rd, Donshiwado, Ponda 403401
Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Brahma Temple
There are very few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in India, and this temple is the only one of its kind in Goa. It is dedicated to the creator of the universe, Lord Brahma, as per Hindu mythology.
The history of the temple is not much known, but it is believed that Lord Brahma’s idol in the temple dates back to the 12th century. The black stone idol of Brahma is said to have been chiseled out in the Kadamba period, and it is shown in the Trimurti form – the trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. The Brahma Temple in Goa is located in the small village of Valpoi and is ideal to visit when exploring the temples of Goa.
Address: H597+R24, Karambali Bramha 403506
Timings: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Mahalasa Narayani Temple
This temple in Goa comes with an interesting legend and is dedicated to Goddess Mahalasa or Mohini. It is believed that she’s one of the female incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Legend goes that the brass bell inside the temple – which has no ringer installed in it today – was a means of testifying the truth for the villagers.
In olden times, the ringer was attached to the bell only when someone wanted to testify in front of the village deity, Mahalasa. It is believed that if the person lied while the bell was ringing, they’d meet their end in just three days. Locals still believe that this was the deity’s way of punishing those who steered away from truth. In fact, the belief was prevalent even when Portuguese ruled over Goa – testaments in the temple were held acceptable in the court of law during that time. Today, the temple attracts devotees from all over the state. In fact, it is more famous today for the brass lamp in the temple – believed to be one of the largest of its kind in the world!
Shri Mangeshi Temple
The Shri Mangeshi Temple is one of the oldest temples in Goa, more than 450 years old. Located in the Mangeshi village, it is dedicated to Lord Mangesh, a form of Lord Shiva, and he’s worshipped as a lingam manifestation here. The village is known to be Indian music maestro, late Lata Mangeshkar’s village and this deity is her family’s primary deity.
Its architecture is visually striking, characterized by tall columns, domes, and balustrades. The chalk blue color over the temple facade also adds to the visual appeal of the temple. Also, the tall deep stambha or the majestic lamp tower is quite noticeable. It is lit up with oil lamps on festive nights, and this view is truly stunning. The Mangeshi Temple is one of the most popular temples in Goa because of its association with the reputed Mangeshkar family and the significance of the temple deity itself.
Address: CXV8+XH6, Dinanath Mangeshkar Rd, Mangeshi village, Mardol, Priol 403401
Timings: 6:30 AM to 9:30 PM
Address: CXRF+638, Mardol, Priol 403404
Timings: 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM
Saptakoteshwar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is believed to be one of the six main temples of Lord Shiva in the entirety of Konkan. Saptakoteshwar Temple, located in Bicholim, is known for being the family deity of the mighty Kadamba dynasty. However, the original temple (location unknown) was attacked by the Bahmani rulers.
To protect the lingam from destruction, it was secretly taken across the river in Bicholim and enshrined in a brand new temple in Narve – the one we know of today. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is credited with revamping the temple in Narve to what it looks like today. What’s also interesting is the journey you must undertake to reach the temple. From Divar Island, you must take a short ferry to reach the Saptakoteshwar Temple – a journey filled with breathtaking views especially during the sunset!
Address: HW3P+MVJ, Temple Road, Narva, Maem 403403
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Kamakshi Temple
The Kamakshi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi or Kamakhya, a deity that is more popular in East and Northeast India than in Western India. So, it is quite interesting to find a temple dedicated to her in Goa. Goddess Kamakshi is often associated with tantric communities and is an important deity in this region.
The main attraction of the temple is the majestic idol of the deity carved out of the Shilagrama stone – a rare and highly revered kind of stone in Hindu beliefs. Also what strikes the eye is the construction of the temple facade that resembles a Buddhist pagoda. There is also a water tank near the temple where devotees can spend some time absorbing the peaceful energy of the temple. So, if you’re visiting the many temples in Goa, make sure you do not miss out on this one!
Address: 82CM+9W7, Shiroda, Goa 403103
Timings: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM; 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Mahadev Temple
The Mahadev Temple in Tambdi Surla, a small village, is believed to be the oldest temple in Goa. Today, it is declared a Monument of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey of India. The Mahadev Temple is also the only preserved site that reflects the Kadamba-Yadava architectural style in Goa.
This temple has survived many invasions by the Mughals, Portuguese, and many other dynasties thanks to its remote location in a forest clearing. The temple’s remote location at the base of the Western Ghats adds a sense of mystery to the atmosphere. Many locals believe that there is a massive king cobra that resides in the temple at night! Doesn’t that add another layer of mystique to the already mysterious temple?
Address: C7Q3+J27, Near Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, Sanguem, Surla 403406
Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Summing Up
Temples in Goa, especially in the monsoon, are an unforgettable experience. So, while you visit these temples, make sure you follow all rules. We suggest you avoid wearing crop tops, short skirts, ripped jeans, or other revealing clothing while entering these temples. Dress appropriately and modestly and enjoy your temple-hopping experience in Goa!
FAQs
Which Temple Was Built By Shivaji Maharaj In Goa?
The Saptakoteshwar Temple in Narve was revamped by Shivaji Maharaj in Goa. This is because the original temple was destroyed by the Bahmani dynasty.
Which Shiv Temple Is Famous In Goa?
There are various Shiva temples that are famous in Goa. Among them, the Mangeshi Temple, Saptakoteshwar Temple, and the Mahadev Temple are particularly famous for their rich history and cultural significance.
Which Temple Was Built By Pandavas In Goa?
It is believed that the Pandavas dug up a cave in Aravalem and worshipped Lord Shiva there. This is believed to be a temple built by the Pandavas, and many consider it to be Goa’s oldest temple.
