Religious & Spiritual Tourism

– Ancient Hindu Heritage & Pilgrimage Sites

Shri Mangeshi Temple – Goa’s Most Famous & Grand Hindu Temple

 Location: Ponda, South Goa
 Best For: Hindu Pilgrimage, Architecture

✅ Dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to be over 450 years old.
✅ Elegant white & gold structure with Indo-Portuguese design.
✅ Surrounded by lush greenery & holy water tank.

 Must-See:
 Seven-story Deepastambha (Lamp Tower).
 Peacock motifs & intricate carvings.

 Best Time to Visit: Maha Shivratri (February – March).
 Entry Fee: Free

  Shanta Durga Temple – Goddess of Peace & Harmony

 Location: Ponda
 Best For: Spirituality, History

✅ Dedicated to Goddess Durga, believed to be a divine mediator between Lord Shiva & Vishnu.
✅ Beautiful red and white temple surrounded by green hills.
✅ Built in Indo-Portuguese style.

 Must-See:
 Serene temple gardens & grand entrance.
 Sunset views from the temple courtyard.

 Best Time to Visit: December (Shanta Durga Festival).
 Entry Fee: Free

   Mahadev Temple, Tambdi Surla – Goa’s Oldest Temple (12th Century)

 Location: Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
 Best For: Trekking, Heritage, Peaceful Retreat

✅ A 12th-century Shiva temple built in Kadamba-Yadava architecture.
✅ Hidden inside dense forests, perfect for nature lovers & history buffs.
✅ Made of black basalt stone, featuring intricate carvings.

 Must-See:
 Intricate stone carvings of deities & floral motifs.
 Trekking trails around the temple.

 Best Time to Visit: October – March
 Entry Fee: Free

  Shri Mahalaxmi Temple – The Abode of the Goddess of Wealth

 Location: Bandora, Ponda
 Best For: Devotion, Festivals, Hindu Culture

✅ One of Goa’s most revered temples, dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi.
✅ Houses a 15th-century idol with a peaceful smile.
✅ Best time to visit during Navaratri celebrations.

 Must-See:
 Traditional aarti (prayer ceremonies).
 Gold-plated temple sanctum.

 Best Time to Visit: Navaratri Festival (September – October).
 Entry Fee: Free