Whenever the name Goa comes up, the beaches, nightlife, disco parties, etc. start roaming in the mind. For this reason, the name Goa is there in the wish list of the youth. But do you know that apart from all this, Goa is also known for its temples? Yes, many temples having mythological and historical importance are the pride of Goa, to visit which devotees reach here from far and wide. If you also plan to go to Goa, then definitely include the visit of these temples in your trip, which will make you feel unique in the atmosphere of Goa. Come let's know about these famous temples of Goa...
Shree Mangeshi Temple
Shri Mangeshi Temple is one of the largest and most visited temples in Goa. With a history of over 450 years, it is dedicated to Lord Mangesh, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is one of the popular temples of Goa. It is believed that Lord Shiva dressed as a lion to scare Goddess Parvati. This temple reflects the Leela of Lord Shiva. The architecture of the temple is a mesmerizing sight of balustrades, domes, and pillars. A magnificent water tank is part of the temple complex. At the entrance, you can see a seven-storied octagonal deep pillar or lamp tower.
Saptakoteshwar Temple
One of the six main temples of Lord Shiva in the entire Konkan region, Saptakoteshwar Temple attracts attention due to its architectural beauty. A wonderful feature of the temple is its dome, built in the Mughal style. The mandap of the temple is built in the European style, while the tall deep pillar is unlike other temples in the state. The main pillared hall of the temple has beautiful arches and chandeliers. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Saptakoteswara, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, whose idol is enshrined inside a wooden sanctum sanctorum.
Tambadi Surla Mahadev Temple
The way to reach this temple is very exciting. Spiritual peace will be found everywhere. This temple was built by Hemadri, the minister of King Ramachandra in the 12th century. It is considered to be the oldest temple in Goa. Here you will get to hear the murmuring sound of rivers and the chirping of birds all around. Devotees get immense peace on reaching this temple situated amidst the natural environment. There is also a waterfall here, which is in the middle of dense forests. Here the beauty of nature fascinates the mind.
Shanta Durga Temple
The famous Shanta Durga Temple in Goa is also more than 450 years old. Goddess Durga is worshiped in this temple as a mediator between Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, and hence the name Shanta Durga or Peaceful Durga. The image of the goddess depicts her as holding two serpents, one in each hand. It is believed that the serpent represents Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The architecture of this temple reflects both the Portuguese and Indian styles. The windows of the temple display the architecture of Rome. The temple structure has a pyramidal spire and Roman arched windows which are rarely seen in temples in Goa. The huge five-storied Deep Stambha or Deepak Tower and the large lake are additional attractions here. On festive occasions, the goddess is taken in procession in a golden palanquin.
Mahalaxmi Temple
Located in Bandol (Bandivade) village, this beautiful temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi and is located here since 1413. There was another Mahalakshmi temple at Colva. But when the Portuguese wanted to destroy that temple in the 16th century, the idol was brought here from the original temple. So there are two idols in this present temple, one of which is from Kolva temple. There are other gods too. On major Hindu festivals, the idols are taken out from the temple in chariots and paraded around in a huge procession. This temple is worth seeing in terms of architecture.
Maruti Mandir
This temple in the state of Goa is prominent among the local people. This temple of Lord Hanuman is considered to be the most famous sightseeing place in Goa. There are many beliefs about this temple. The Portuguese are said to have destroyed many Hindu temples during their rule over Goa, including this one, but they could not destroy it. Its statue survived. After the fall of the Portuguese, a grand temple was built here. Lakhs of devotees from other states also reach here on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Hanuman Jayanti.
Mahalsa Narayani Temple
Mahalasa Temple is one of the most beautiful temples in Goa. The temple is dedicated to Mohini, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, who took this avatar to snatch the nectar from the demons. Mahalasa has four hands in the temple. In which a Trishul is held in one hand, a sword in the other, a severed head in the third, and a drinking vessel in the fourth. Gaur Saraswat Brahmins and Vaishnavas of Goa and South Kanara recognize the idol of this temple as Mohini. There they are called by the names Narayani and Rahu-Mathani (Rahu the killer). Beautiful carvings can be seen in the interior of this temple.
Ramnath Temple
This temple comes under Saraswat Brahmin and Dev Danya Brahmin. There is an ancient belief behind this temple. Lord Rama is said to have repented after the battle with Ravana. He established Shivling here to get salvation. For this reason, where did it go to Rameshwar or Ramnath? One can visit this temple only by wearing special clothes. There are no darshans here in normal clothes.
Chandreshwar Bhootnath Temple
Chandreshwar Bhootnath Temple is one of the most visited temples in South Goa. This ancient temple is situated on the top of Chandranath Hill. You can either climb the granite steps or drive on a motorable road to reach the temple. Lord Shiva is worshiped here as the Lord of the Moon. The Shivling inside the temple is positioned in such a way that it appears resplendent on full moon nights. It is also said that whenever the moon illuminates it, water gushes out of the linga. While here, you can also visit a small temple located nearby. The temple is dedicated to Bhootnath, the lord of the ghosts, who is another form of Lord Shiva.
