Goa is truly a land of wonders. It is a land full of history, beauty and life, making it the perfect place for a discerning traveller. It is the smallest state in India, yet there is much to see and explore. The most obvious tourist attractions are the Goan beaches and churches, but once you dig deeper, you unearth many more equally beautiful places where you can spend a weekend, a day, or even go on exciting day hikes in Goa. Once you truly explore the state, you will find beautiful hidden gems. Streams, waterfalls and temples especially, with ancient architecture dating back to the Mughals, Marathas and Kadambas are just a few such gems. 

Here we have compiled a list of 5 temples you simply have to visit in Goa.

Mangeshi Temple, Ponda

Mangeshi Temple is dedicated to Lord Mangesh who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is one of the largest and most visited temples in Goa, with a history going back to 450 years. The temple was originally located in the village of Cortalim, Mormugao and fell during the Portuguese reign over Goa. It was later relocated to Mangeshi village in Ponda.

The original structure was very simple, and the current structure was built under the Maratha rule about 150 years after it was moved. The captivating architecture consists of large balustrades, domes and columns. To add to this magnificent beauty, the temple consists of a seven-story octagonal lamp tower, which is lit with oil lamps during festivals. Every Monday, before the evening aarti, there is a procession of the idol of Lord Mangesh in a palanquin. 

Mahalaxmi Temple, Ponda

The Mahalaxmi Temple is a shrine to the Goddess Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth, power and strength. The architecture of the temple is simply breathtaking with a silver arched doorway and a pillared hall. It also features twenty-four wooden panels that display scenes from the Bhagavata Purana that consist of major stories related to Lord Krishna. 

The idol of the Goddess Mahalaxmi is made out of black stone and is shown to have four hands, wearing a linga on her head. It was meant to resemble the idol of the goddess in Kolhapur, which is the main temple of worship for the goddess in India. The temple attracts a lot of pilgrims throughout the year. They all come to witness the beauty and splendour of the temple first hand. 

Mahadev Temple, Sanguem

Located at Tambdi Surla, Sanguem, the Mahadev Temple is often referred to as the gem of the place. It is considered to be the oldest shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva in the region. It has been declared by the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) as a Monument of National Importance in Goa. The temple dates back to the 12th century and was constructed in the Jain style. To make the temple even more special than it already is, it is the only structure representing the Kadamba-Yadava architectural style that can be seen in Goa today. It is made with basalt stone and is adorned with intricate carvings. A linga is housed in the inner sanctum sanctorum of the temple. 

To add to the allure of the temple, it is located in a dense jungle surrounded by lush greenery. During the annual festival of Mahashivratri, devotees from all over the state and country come to the temple to worship Lord Shiva. 

Shanta Durga Temple, Ponda

The Shanta Durga is a beautifully constructed temple that dates back to over 450 years. Much like the Mangeshi Temple, this temple too was destroyed during the Portuguese reign and was later relocated and rebuilt by a Maratha king. As the name suggests, the temple denotes peace and harmony. This significance originates as the Goddess Durga is worshipped as a mediator between Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The image and idols in the temple are of the deity holding two serpents, meant to represent the two lords. 

The temple is built in the Indo-Portuguese architectural style and features a pyramidal shikhara and Roman arched windows that are rarely seen in Goan temples and are seen more in churches. Read churches to visit in Goa to know more.

Chandreshwar Bhootnath Temple, Quepem

The Chandreshwar Bhootnath Temple is one of the most prominent and most visited temples in South Goa. It is situated on top of a hill called Chandranath Hill, making it a sight to behold to all pilgrims and worshipers. You can drive up to the temple or simply choose to take in the entire experience, climbing up the granite steps that lead to it.

This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva where he is worshipped as the Lord of the Moon. The Shiva Linga inside the shrine is positioned in such a manner that it shines radiantly on a full moon. Legend has it that one can even witness water flowing out of the linga whenever the moon illuminates it. Nearby, you can also visit another smaller temple dedicated to Bhoothnath, the lord of ghosts, which is another manifestation of Lord Shiva. 

Enjoy a truly enriching experience visiting the many temples the beautiful state of Goa has to offer. Rejuvenate in your luxury home in Goa and await your next adventure. At Kasu Homes you can enjoy a vacation-like living experience daily at one of our properties. Explore our villas at Anjuna and Assagao. Stay tuned for our upcoming project ‘Kasu Zira’ in Reis Magos as well. For more information and updates follow us on Instagram and Facebook.