Shree Ramnath Temple is situated in the peaceful village of Ramnathim Bandivade, South Goa and conveys the message of HariHara – A combination of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The shrines of Shri Ramnath Temple are Lord Rama, Lakshmi Narayan, Lord Ganesh, Kamakshi and Shantarani and Betal & Kalbhairav. Gowda Saraswat Brahmins consider the 450-year-old temple a place of utmost importance and a crucial pious site. Initially situated in Salcete, it shifted its abode in the 16th century to protect the idols from the Portuguese. The craftsmanship of art and architectural designs can be seen in the ornate silver screen on the door of the sanctum of Shree Ramnath Temple. The idol of lingam in the sanctum was originally from Loutolim in Salcete taluka, installed in the early 16th century.
History Of The Shree Ramnath Temple
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Shree Ramnath Temple has roots as early as the 16th century. The temple was initially built in Loutolim, and the deity worshipped here was Ramnath, an avatar of Lord Shiva. Due to the oppression by the British invaders, the devotees wanted to safeguard their sacred site and religious practices, and they shifted the temple to its present location in Bandivade.
They survived both their religion and the temple, for this strategic move ensured they protected their avenue to practice their faith. The structure of this temple is a fusion of Goan and Maratha architecture.
Must Read: Temples In Goa
Places To Visit Near The Shree Ramnath Temple
There are many places to visit around Shree Ramnath temple in Goa. While you plan your trip to Ramnath temple, which will take you about a day to cover in its entirety, you can also add a few days to your trip to visit these magical places in Goa. Each of these places has a unique tourism quotient, and many are off the commercial tourist map and are hidden gems. Here is a well-curated list of captivating places to visit to make your trip memorable.
1. Safa Masjid
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Safa Shahouri Masjid is a mosque built in the 16th century and situated in Ponda. It is a place that comprises gardens and fountains, and historians estimate it was constructed in 1560 by Adil Shah. The fact that the building is known as a national monument is also some sort of art worth a halt here. The structure has an enormous green field and a stunning calm water pool in the right foreground. The environment is characterized by serenity, and it is a suitable time to spend some peaceful thoughts near the power of the Almighty God. This mosque is a celebration centre for the local Muslim people during the Eid-Ul-Fitr and Eid-Ul-Zuha festivals.
Location: Masjid Committee Shapur, Ponda, Goa 403401
Distance from Shree Ramnath Temple: 3 km
2. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
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The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, established in northeastern Goa, is a wildlife sanctuary home to numerous flora and fauna. It is a recreational park, which is located at the expanse of 8 square kilometres of green land and attracts thousands of tourists every year from all over the country. When you trek on the forest trails, you get a rather rhythmic view of some of the comparatively easy-to-spot local fauna, such as bears, jungle cats, deer, bison, Malabar Giant Squirrel, etc. Look out for the exotic species of birds in the sanctuary. The more frequently observed species include hornbills, woodpeckers, and kingfishers.
Location: Usgao-Ganjem VP, Goa 403105
Distance from Shree Ramnath Temple: 20.9 km
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Vasco Da Gama
3. Dudhsagar Waterfalls
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This beautiful waterfall is among the five most magnificent waterfalls in India. Dudhsagar Waterfalls is approximately 310 meters high and 100 feet wide; thus, it depicts the strength of nature, which is surely worth having in the picture. This four-tier waterfall is highly beautiful and more famous after the shooting at this place for the film Chennai Express in the year 2013. In the Dudhsagar waterfalls in Goa, at the initial stage, the water seems to be a pour out of milk coming down from the mountain. Later, it changes and looks like it is gushing down. The entire landmark, including the backdrop of the falls, is garnished by a hugely extended forested area. Most of the Dudhsagar waterfalls are exceptionally stunning and special since a railway line passes through the middle of the waterfall.
Location: Sonauli, Goa 403410
Distance from Shree Ramnath Temple: 46.2 km
Best Time To Visit & Timings Of The Temple
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The temple is open from 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM every day. Ideally, Shree Ramnath Temple should be visited during the winter season, which is from the month of October to March. This time is quite favourable for the climate and is comfortable for travelling and strolling around the temple and surroundings. Also, visiting during this particular period enables tourists to witness the main festivals that are celebrated, such as the MahaShivaratri festival, which is celebrated in either February or early March.
On Maha Shivaratri day, the temple is decorated, and rituals are performed to mark the occasion. It receives the attention of many devotees, thereby giving an experience both cherished and rich in culture.
Suggested Read: Best Tourist Places To Visit In Goa
How To Reach The Temple
The Ramnath temple is well connected to the rest of India by Air, Train, and Road. Depending on what type of travel option suits you the best, you can reach the Ramnath temple through any of the above link networks and enjoy a fulfilling spiritual journey.
By Air: Goa International Airport, or Dabolim Airport, is the nearest airport to the Ramnathi Temple. From the temple, it is at least 35.7 km away from the destination.
By Train: The train stations near Ramnath Temple are Vasco Da Gama and Margao. The temple is 35 km from Vasco Da Gama station.
By Road: Ramnath Temple can be easily visited by road transport, and several roads connect it. To get to the temple, one must take a bus from the Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, approximately 28 kilometres away.
Further Read: Facts About Vasco Da Gama
Visit Shree Ramnath Temple to explore the rich culture and spirituality that this unique place provides. Whether one is searching for spiritual comfort, architectural aesthetics, or something more profound, like insight into Goan culture, this temple does not disappoint. Ensure you visit nearby places to enjoy the rest of your time here. Start planning your trip to Goa and begin enjoying the timeless charm.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Shree Ramnath Temple
Which deity is worshipped at the temple?
The deity worshipped at Shree Ramnath Temple is Ram Nath Gowda. The temple is also referred to as one of the ancient temples of South India, which was constructed and dedicated to Lord Ramnath, an avatar of Lord Shiva. People visit the temple of Lord Ramnath to pray for God's grace for prosperity, for heaven and salvation.
What are the festivals which are observed in this shrine of Shree Ramnath Temple?
The most popular festival that is celebrated here is Maha Shivaratri throughout the year which is marked with a large number of devotees. Other significant fests are Navratri and Diwali, which involve specific themes and installation practices, embellishment, and group get-togethers.
Are there any restaurants near the temple?
At present, there are many restaurants and other eateries in close proximity to the temple that serve Goan food, pure vegetarian food and snacks. It also has an Annadanam facility where the devotees can prepare and offer foodgrains to the people who come to the temple free of cost.
Are there certain activities carried out by the visitors of the temple daily?
Yes, Shree Ramnath Temple has daily darshan timings. However, the timings vary from morning puja (abhishekam, ceremonial bath of the deity), mid-day aarti (prayer with lights) and evening aarti (worship). Such activities can be witnessed or even participated in during a visit by the devotees.
Can one find a space of silence or solitude in a temple, or is the idea of a personal meditation room preposterous in a temple setting?
Religious activities such as praying and meditating are also effectively carried out at the temple, especially in yards and shrines. These are areas where people would wish to spend some solitary time as they reflect on their inner selves.
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