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Ponda is located in the centre of Goa and is considered the capital of religion and culture there. This area contains some of the most connoted and ancient temples in Ponda, each with a unique glimpse into the rich religious history of Goa. Whether one is a devout pilgrim or just a curious traveller, the temples of Ponda plunge one into the energetic spiritual life of this region. From the great architecture to its restful surroundings, its temples in Ponda stand to be more than mere holy places but guardians of Goa’s heritage.
10 Popular Temples In Ponda
These are the temples which contain a rich history source of the region, so one of them is a must-visit place for travellers who tour the temples in Goa.
1. Shri Mangeshi Temple
Photo: Mangesh Nadkarni / Wikimedia Commons
Shri Mangeshi Temple is one of the most famous and venerated temples in Goa. The temple is an outstanding example of attractive and graceful architecture set with a spiritual environment. The temple is more than 450 years old and has undergone numerous renovations yet has not lost its classical appeal. And the magnificent seven-storeyed deepstambha (lamp tower), the mute watcher for centuries, during festive occasions, floods the temple complex with light.
Timings: 6 AM – 10 PM
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2. Shri Shantadurga Temple
Photo: Nkodikal / WIkimedia Commons
Held a little far in Kavlem, Ponda, is the domicile of Shri Shantadurga Temple, which is a Bhagvati. This temple has the characteristics of an architectural marvel, with a bright red facade, an exquisitely sculpted deepstambha, and a large central courtyard on the inside. The temple was built in the 18th century and is a mark of harmony and divine intervention. The Golden Palanquin of the temple is highly revered and taken out during festivals.
Timings: 6 AM – 8:30 PM
3. Shri Mahalasa Narayani Temple
Photo: Kaveri / Wikimedia Commons
Shri Mahalasa Narayani Temple, nestled amidst the overflowing green covers of the quaint village Mardol in Ponda, is a house of divine assurance dedicated to the Goddess Mahalasa. This temple is a good epitome of classic Goan temple architecture, boasting its colourful, ornate face and wooden pillars deeply carved with skill. Spacious courtyard, towering deepstambha, and unique brass lamps in the temple complex light during the evening aarti, creating an enchanting atmosphere. This is a cultural spectacle where Jatra Mahotsav, a grand celebration, takes place.
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
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4. Shri Nagueshi Temple
Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Shri Nagueshi Temple in Goa is another ancient marvel. The temple is known for its beautiful wood carvings, including carvings of the magnificent Nandi Bull at the entrance of the temple. Nestled in serene surroundings with the temple’s deepstambha, it offers a peaceful experience to both devotees and travellers. The temple is of very ancient origin, said to be discovered in the forest by a cowherd, where now the temple stands.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
5. Shri Ramnathi Temple
Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons
The Shri Ramnathi Temple is dedicated to Lord Ramanath, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. This temple is one of the five temples of the Goud Saraswat Brahmins. The other important features of the temple are this beautiful deity, his silver-plated sanctum, and the prayerful large hall. Its history, especially the migration of Saraswat Brahmins from Goa to Karnataka and back, being gloriously interwoven into it, renders it so valuable to this community.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 9:30 PM
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6. Shri Kamakshi Temple
Photo: Gaurav.gawand / Wikimedia Commons
The Shri Kamakshi Temple is situated in the beautiful and scenic village of Shiroda. It is a temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, an incarnation of Parvati. Located here is a simple but beautiful temple with a good garden-situated large main hall. The idol of Kamakshi is said to be self-manifested. The temple is quite popular among devotees coming through to seek blessings for prosperity and well-being.
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12 PM, 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM
7. Shri Mahalaxmi Temple
Photo: Glavo / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Shri Mahalaxmi Temple in Ponda is a beautiful temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. The deity in the temple is uniquely beautiful, as Goddess Mahalaxmi is seen standing with a lingam, not quite the same as in other temples. This artistic temple is a special representation of the deity of Mahalaxmi holding a lingam, which is not generally found elsewhere. It’s among the most politically important centres of the Vaishnavite consciousness in Goa. The Navratri festival celebrated is about a big affair looking big at big crowds.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
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8. Shri Laxmi Narasimha Temple
Photo: Simon / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
One such gem, not too well known yet, is the Shri Laxmi Narasimha Temple, dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Vishnu. An annual Rathotsava, or chariot festival, takes place every so often in the peaceful surroundings of the temple. At the temple, the deity has been installed in a very special posture. The architecture followed for the temple is in the true Goan style.
Timings: 24*7
9. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple
Photo: Deoboo / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the heart of Goa, the Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Saptakoteshwar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The history involves a lot of struggle since the idol was shifted from one place to another because of invasions. The present structure is from the 17th century with Indian and Portuguese architectural styles; the dome and the European belfry are two of them.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
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10. Shri Navdurga Temple
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The village of Madkai houses the Shri Navdurga Temple that is home to Goddess Navdurga, yet another form of Durga. The main deity is depicted in another unusual placement stance not in a ferocious form but peacefully with both historical and local significance. A grand annual festival with old traditional rituals consisting of music and dance is arranged in the temple.
Timings: 5 AM – 8 PM
The temples in Ponda Goa, are no more just sites of worship, they are the guardians of hundreds of years old traditions and history. Every temple narrates a tale of devotion, culture, and architectural beauty, thus making Ponda a hotspot for every person interested in discovering the spiritual heritage of the state. The Ponda temples enrich you in a way that the experience remains within you long after visiting, be it for the festivals, tranquil environment, or the historic importance within. Book your temple visit to Goa with TripXL for a spiritual journey that you will never forget.
Cover Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
