Click it and Unblock the Notifications
Goa, the land of the sun, sand and surf, is a major tourist destination for travellers all over the world. The many pristine beaches here attract crowds in large numbers, who enjoy the beauty of nature and relax themselves at Goa. Also, it is one of the most happening places in India as many beach parties are organised here throughout the year. There is no dearth of travellers in the region at all times of the year.
Of the many attractions that make Goa a major tourist hub, mention must be made of the temples that stand here. Most of them where built during the ancient times and over the years have seen many changes. These temples are sure to leave you mesmerised by their architectural beauty and the history they hold. A visit to these temples is a must for all those travelling to Goa.
Click Here to avail 80% OFF on Travel Deals.
Mahadev Temple
The Mahadev Templeis a 12th centuryShaivitetemple of the Lord Mahadeva. It is the oldest temple inGoa and was built byHemadri, the minister of theYadavaKingRamachandra. TheJainstyle of construction has led to debates about the origins of the temple, since theKadamba Dynastyruled Goa between the tenth and fourteenth centuries. The temple is dedicated to LordShivaand is reminiscent of the temples atAiholein neighbouring Karnataka. There is aShivalingamounted on a pedestal inside the inner sanctum, and local legend has it that a hugeking cobrais in permanent residence in the dimly lit interior of this temple. Travellers coming here can marvel at the lovely architecture of this temple.
Photo Courtesy: AshLin
Mandodari Temple
TheShri Mandodari templeis in the village of Betaki and is dedicated to the village god, Betki. This temple was built to appease the god so that water was received here. The village was initially said to be barren, but after the temple was made and regular offerings were offered, water is said to have sprouted from the ground here. Travellers coming here can visit the temple and pay homage to the god and also see the sight from where water is said to have sprouted.
Photo Courtesy: Bartsson
Mangueshi Temple
The Mangueshi Temple is one of the largest and most frequently visited temples inGoa. It has its origins in KushasthaliCortalim that fell to the invading Portuguese in 1543. The main temple is dedicated to Bhagavan Manguesh, an incarnation ofLord Shiva. According to the legend, LordShivahad manifested into a tiger to scare his wifeParvati. The complex also has shrines of GoddessParvatiand Lord Ganesh. The other deities in the temple are Nandikeshvar, Gajana and Bhagavati.
Photo Courtesy: Vinayaraj
Shanta Durga Temple
The Shanta Durga Templeis a large temple complex located at the foothill ofKavalemvillage. A small laterite mud shrine was built and the deity was installed here. Later this mud-shrine was converted into a beautiful temple, whose foundation stone was laid in 1730 and the temple was completed in 1738. The temple is dedicated toGoddess Shantadurga, who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Devotees throng this temple to seek the blessings of the goddess as it is believed that the idol here has the power to fulfill all wishes.
Photo Courtesy: Nkodikal
Ramnathi
The temple ofRamnathiis located in Bandivade inGoa. This temple belongs to the Saraswat Brahmins and houses 5 main deities namely; the Shri Ramanath, Shanteri, Kamakshi, Laxmi Narayan, Ganapati, Betal and Kalbhairav. It is believed that the idol of Shri Ramanath was installed 3,000 years back by Lord Rama. He is said to have prayed to the supreme being to forgive him for having killed Ravana who was a Brahmin. It is believed that the deity here holds the power of Lord Rama as well as that of Lord Vishnu.
Photo Courtesy: Drshenoy
Shanta Durga Kalangutkarin Temple
The Shri Shanta Durga Kalangutkarin temple is located in Nanoda village of Goa and is dedicated to Goddess Shanta Durga who is believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Normally Shanta Durga is worshipped in a Shanta form, but it is believed that after killing the demons the goddess's anger was at its pinnacle and this form of the deity is worshipped here. Shri Shantadurga is the goddess of wealth, prosperity, light, wisdom, fortune, fertility, courage and beauty. Travellers coming here can pay homage to the goddess and admire the architectural beauty of the temple.
Photo Courtesy: Agawas
Mahalasa Temple
The Mahalasa Temple in Goa is dedicated to Mohini, an Incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is said that during the 'Amrit Manthan' between the gods and demons, Lord Vishnu appeared in the form of Mohini to ensure that the 'Amrit' was received by the gods. Later a temple was made to honour Mohini who is believed to be a bringer of balance. Travellers coming here can admire the artistic display of the story etched on the temple walls here.
Photo Courtesy: Kaveri
