Temples of Goa

Goa is home to some of the most popular temples in the country. Even after being subjected to destruction by the Portuguese most of the temples in Goa still manage to stand unshaken. Uprooted from their original shrines most of the deities were made to shift during the Portuguese rule in India. Ultimately the deities were transferred to their original abodes after the first temple was built in 1818.


Shri Naguesh Temple, Bandora
Established in the year 1413 this is one of the most ancient temples situated in Goa. Built before Alfonso de Albuquerque arrived in Goa this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Designed with intricate and colorful wooden carvings that narrate stories from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, the Shri Naguesh temple is one of the most frequented temples in India.

Mahalaxmi Temple
Dedicated to Mahalakshmi the Goddess of wealth and prosperity this temple is located in the heart of Panaji the capital of Goa. Known to be the first Hindu temple built in Goa after the invasion of the Portuguese this temple holds immense importance in the eyes of its devotees. One of the major celebrations in this temple held every year is the Maruti Jatra which is witnessed by devotees in and across the country.

Mahalsa Temple
One f the most reputed temples in the state the Mahalsa Temple is dedicated to Goddess Mahalsa an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Located in Ponda village this visually appealing temple is bestowed with a six storied pillar lamp in the courtyard. The pillar is forty feet tall and offers 150 small lamps which when lit altogether is one of the most fascinating spectacles one can ever witness.

Sri Devaki Krishna Temple
Popular as one of the most sacred Hindu shrines in the country this temple is located in Ponda village. The only temple in the entire country that is said to be presided by Lord Krishna and His mother Devaki, the Sri Devaki Krishna Temple holds prime importance to the devotees of Lord Krishna. The idols of the two presiding deities in this temple is said to be the most outstanding feature ever created in any religious place so far.

Mallikarjun Temple
Dedicated to Mallikurjan, an incarnation of lord Shiva this temple was built by the ancestors of the Kshatriya Samaj in 16th century. Built on the spot where Lord Shiva reunited with his beloved Parvati after a long separation this temple is known throughout the country for its pomp and colorful festivities. Beautifully designed with medieval architectural style this temple has exquisitely carved wooden pillars that are formed in the shape of a mandap. Known as one of the most sacred shrines for Hindu devotees this temple attracts people from all across the globe.

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