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Goa, known for its radiant beaches and Portuguese heritage, is also home to a rich tapestry of spiritual traditions. Amidst the lush countryside and ancient towns, ancient Shiva temples in Goa echo great cultural significance under Hinduism. These temples are narrators of Goa’s history. So, whether you are looking for spiritual fulfilment or curious about history, a visit to these sites would deepen your understanding of Goa’s diverse heritage. Here is a list of some prominent Shiva shrines in Goa explaining their origins and keeping alive the spirit of devotion.
10 Shiva Temples In Goa
Here is a top-picked list of the Shiva temples in Goa that will help you make the most of your visit to the coastal state.
1. Shri Ramnath Temple
Photo: Amol.Gaitonde / Wikimedia Commons
Shri Ramnath Temple, situated in Bandora, Ponda is among one of the most famous Shiva temples in Goa. Dedicated to Lord Ramnath, who is considered as an avatar of Lord Shiva, the temple has historical significance in regard to protecting the deity from the Portuguese. This building has a white facade that catches one’s attention with its unique carvings and structure similar to deepstambha, which is a lamp tower. Additionally, there are other shrines dedicated to different gods within this temple complex such as Shantadurga and Lakshmi Narayan.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Shivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
2. Kamakshi Temple
Photo: Gaurav.gawand / Wikimedia Commons
The Kamakshi Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, who is a reincarnation of Goddess Parvati. Located in Shiroda, Goa, this temple holds great importance in Shiva’s worship and it is also intimately connected with divine feminine powers complementary to Lord Shiva himself. Dating back to the 16th century, this Goan-type temple has elaborate carvings that exhibit traditional cultures along with peaceful environmental settings. The major festivals such as Mahashivratri transform it into an area full of excitement.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Mahashivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
3. Shri Keshavnarayan Temple
Photo: K.Venkataramana / Wikimedia Commons
Shri Keshavnarayan Temple, in Keshav Nagar of Ponda, Goa is the famous pilgrim site for all the devotees of Lord Keshavnarayan, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is famous for its great tranquillity and typical Goan architecture. It has beautiful carvings in it and also contains a calm place for meditation and prayers. Because of its historical importance and architectural designs, it attracts both followers as well as tourists. Decorated beautifully during major Hindu festive events, this is quite a popular Shiva temple in Goa.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Mahashivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
4. Shri Mahadev Temple
Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons
One of the oldest Shiva temples in Goa, Shri Mahadev Temple was built in the 12th century in Tambdi Surla, Sanguem. This temple is famous for the ancient Kadamba-Yadava architectural style, which is carved out from laterite stone and decorated with intricate carvings amidst lush greenery. Dedicated to Lord Mahadev, this temple serves as a significant spiritual place of attraction for its historical as well as architectural significance. It offers an exclusive experience with its peaceful atmosphere and sense of history particularly at times like Mahashivratri when it becomes a centre for worship and festivities.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Mahashivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
5. Shri Venkatesh Temple
Photo: Prasad Gaude / Wikimedia Commons
The shrine of Shri Venkatesh in Sancoale at Vasco da Gama in Goa stands as a cherished shrine for Hindus. Dedicated to Lord Venkatesh, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva himself, this is one of the best Shiva temples in Goa. Comprising intricate carvings and a serene environment, it stands out among the south Indian architectures. Known for its rich spiritual heritage and vibrant rituals, this temple attracts devotees during major festivals like Shivratri, when there is a lot of excitement at the shrine which becomes quite popular for worship as well as cultural experiences.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Mahashivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
6. Shri Chandreshwar Bhootnath Temple
Photo: Kjayeshmk / Wikimedia Commons
The Shri Chandreshwar Bhootnath Temple, found in Chaudi, Canacona, Goa, stands as a prominent Hindu shrine. Devoted to Lord Chandreshwar Bhootnath, a form of Lord Shiva, this is one of the must-visit Shiva temples in the region. This temple has a historical significance with traditional Goan architecture, intricate designs and tranquillity. During Mahashivratri, the temple celebrates with bright events and prayers to attract worshippers who want to witness the deep spiritual culture of Goa.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Mahashivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
7. Shri Rudreshwar Temple
Photo: Amithabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Shri Rudreshwar Temple is a Hindu shrine in Collem, Sanguem, Goa, which is dedicated to Lord Rudreshwar, a form of Lord Shiva. An ancient temple characterised by quietness and historical relevance, it is notable for its typically Goan architecture featuring finely designed carvings and surrounded by a cool forest area. It serves as an essential agent in local religious practices especially during Mahashivratri when colourful rituals are conducted there. Thus drawing visitors is the tranquillity of its environment coupled with traditional Goan Shiva worship experiences.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Mahashivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
8. Shri Naguesh Temple
Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons
Shri Naguesh Temple is a historical and venerated Hindu shrine situated in Bandora, Ponda, Goa, devoted to Lord Naguesh, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. With its age-old history combined with traditional Goan architecture; the complex consists of intricate carvings and a cool ambiance. The temple is known for its tranquil atmosphere and has a significant contribution to the spiritual practices of locals. It becomes especially lively on occasions like Mahashivratri when devotees meet up for special ceremonies and rituals.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Mahashivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
9. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple
Photo: sarangib / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple is one of the oldest temples dedicated to Shiva. Initially built during the 12th century AD, it was reconstructed by Marathas after being destroyed during Portuguese rule. The temple has a unique mix of Indo-Portuguese and traditional Hindu architecture styles. Every year many pilgrims flock to this place; particularly during the Gokulashtami Festival, when there are colourful processions and ceremonials held in honour of Lord Shiva.
Best Time To Visit: November to February, during Gokulashtami or Shivratri
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
10. Shri Brahmadeva Temple
Photo: Sonika Agarwal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Shri Brahmadeva Temple, located at Carambolim in the Sattari district of Goa, is dedicated specifically to Lord Brahma along with a shrine of Lord Shiva in his Rudra form. It is one of the few places in India catering to the worship of Brahma, which makes it a very rare spiritual shrine. Greenery surrounds the shrine providing a serene and calm atmosphere. Architecturally, it has typical Goan designs along with very intricate carvings.
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Entry Fee: NA
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
If you are a history lover, nature enthusiast or just looking for a calm holiday then these Shiva temples in Goa have something for everyone. Apart from their architectural grandeur, these shrines are known to keep some historical significance as well. So, what are you waiting for, plan your trip with TripXL now for a memorable spiritual experience in the coastal state.
Cover Photo: Kiran891 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
