Located amidst the green landscape of Goa is the Shri Shantadurga Temple, which reflects the rich heritage in terms of culture and spiritual importance. This lovely temple attracts visitors through impressive architecture and tranquil surroundings dedicated to Goddess Shantadurga in Kavlem, Ponda—a small village. It is one of the most sacrosanct Hindu temples in Goa, binding visitors to spiritual solace and architectural grandeur. Its intricate design, colourful façade, and tranquil surroundings will enthral every visiting heart.
History Of Shri Shantadurga
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The history of the Shri Shantadurga Temple is replete with legends and is of great cultural significance. This was originally a temple in Keloshi in Salcette, which was shifted to Kavlem in the 16th century to avoid religious persecution at the hands of the Portuguese. The local legend has it that Goddess Shantadurga—an avatar of Goddess Durga—mediated a dispute between Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva and won the name of “Shantadurga” from her peaceful intervention, which means the Goddess of Peace.
Though small in size originally, the temple was rebuilt and enlarged in 1738 through the patronage of Maratha ruler Shahu Bhonsle. It underwent several renovations and additions throughout the centuries and grew into a large complex, never losing its spiritual essence and architectural charm.
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Architectural Marvel Of Shri Shantadurga Temple
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The Shri Mangeshi temple is one of the most striking examples of Goan temple architecture, combining Hindu and Portuguese elements. One of the striking features of the temple is its bright white exterior with contrasting blue highlights against the green surroundings. The principal building is pyramidal-roofed, topped by a decorative brass final, and over the entrance, there is a large dome. Intricate carvings, exquisite chandeliers, a large sabha mandap, and graceful pillars support this hall of the temple complex.
In the sanctum sanctorum, an idol of Goddess Shantadurga, flanked by Goddess Laxmi and Goddess Saraswati, is found. The temple’s architecture is supplemented by a deepstambha, a magnificent lamp tower, and a sacred tank, which add to the grandeur and spiritual atmosphere of that area of the temple compound.
Nearby Attractions Of Shri Shantadurga Temple
Here are the top tourist places to visit on a trip to Goa near the Shri Shantadurga temple.
1. Shri Mangesh Temple
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This Shri Mangesh Temple is another architectural marvel of the temple circuit in Goa and is Lord Shiva’s abode. With its seven-story deepstambha and magnificent white exterior, this temple creates a kind of soulful silence. The temple dates back to the 16th century and is one of the fine specimens of the mix between Hindu and Christian styles in architecture. Detailed carvings, colourful murals, and the serene atmosphere inside the temple compound are alluring to viewers.
Not far from the temple, there is a holy spring, which is believed to heal all kinds of diseases. This adds to the beauty of the temple. Thus, Shri Mangesh Temple, with its rich history and cultural value, is one of the places to visit in Goa for its religious heritage.
Location: Mangeshi, Ponda, Goa
Entry Fees: None
Timing: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Distance from city centre: About 21 kms from Panaji
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2. Shri Mahalasa Temple
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The Shri Mahalasa Temple is a fine temple that enshrines Goddess Mahalasa, who happens to be an avatar of Lord Vishnu. This place is widely famous for its architecture and spiritualism. It combines a unique pyramidal roof with exquisite carvings that bring out the finesse of Goan craftsmen. Enveloped within, one can see the beautiful idol of Goddess Mahalasa and beautiful paintings on the walls.
A sacred tank and a garden with beautiful flora are also found inside this temple complex, thus creating an atmosphere suitable for meditating and sitting in silence. Rich in history since the 16th century, Shri Mahalasa Temple presents insight into the divergent religious traditions and architectural heritage that Goa has been carrying.
Location: Mardol, Ponda, Goa
Entry Fees: Nil
Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Distance from city centre: About 22 km from Panaji
3. Sahakari Spice Farm
A far cry from visiting temples, the Sahakari Spice Farm is an exciting opportunity to experience Goa’s farming culture up close. This sprawling organic spice plantation is a treat to wander through the aroma world of spices like cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and pepper. Guided tours take one through an arena of various spices and their cultivation and usages, adding to the activities of tree climbing and elephant bathing.
The restaurant at this farm serves yummy traditional Goan cuisine cooked with fresh ingredients grown locally. Green and lush, and educative as well, this Sahakari Spice Farm enables refreshment and knowledge for nature and culinary enthusiasts alike.
Location: Ponda, Goa
Entry Fees: 400/- per person Inclusive of one time guided tour with lunch.
Timing: 9.00 A.M. to 5.00 P.M.
Distance from city centre: About 30 km from Panaji
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4. Tropical Spice Plantation
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However, providing an even better experience is the Tropical Spice Plantation, which is yet another of the more eco-friendly spice plantations available to showcase a wide array of spices, medicinal plants, and tropical fruits. Guided tours of the properties and usages of various spices and herbs are conducted.
Other activities involve birdwatching and traditional Goan cooking. A sumptuous conventional Goan lunch on banana leaves becomes the crown jewel of it all. Blending the vision for sustainable agriculture with cultural preservation makes the visit to the Tropical Spice Plantation educational and sensory-rich for visitors of any age group.
Location: Keri, Ponda, Goa
Entry Fees: INR 500 per person, inclusive of guide charges with a welcome drink, lunch
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Distance from city centre: About 35 km away from Panaji
5. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Image Credit: Aruna for Wikipedia
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a rejuvenating getaway for many nature and wildlife lovers visiting Goa. This small sanctuary is a host to the rich biodiversity of Goa, consisting of various species of animals like the Indian bison, Malabar giant squirrels, and many bird species. It has a small zoo, botanical garden, and deer park, making this sanctuary an ideal destination for picnics, family outings, and educational excursions.
It contains everything from nature walks and bird watching to overnight stays in the forest department accommodation. Rich in its conservation and academic purpose, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary strikes a perfect balance with the cultural experience brought forth by the temples around. It is one of the many temples in Goa that combines rich heritage, stunning architecture, and a serene atmosphere.
Location: Ponda Taluka, Goa
Entry Fees: INR 20 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Closed: Wednesday
Distance from city centre: About 50 km from Panaji
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This beautiful temple provides spiritual assistance to the visiting devotees and carries the identity of that region’s artistic and architectural heritage. With other significant temples and natural spots surrounded, this is just the right starting point to experience the diversity of Goa beyond the beaches. For the spirituality seeker, history buff, and explorer, Shri Shantadurga Temple is an area that offers a great experience steeped in Goan culture at large and living diversity. It is a charm, so trip to Goa and get enchanted by the beauty, serenity, and spirit infused within this holy place.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Shri Shantadurga Temple
What can be the best time to visit Shri Shantadurga Temple?
Though the temple is visitable throughout the year, the best time would be from October to March when the weather conditions are relatively cool and pleasant. The temple's annual festival, celebrated in December-January, is very vibrant and worth experiencing.
What can be the dress code for visiting the temple?
There is no strict dress code, but it is good to have your shoulders and knees covered out of respect for this beautiful place. Shoes will have to be removed outside the premises of the temple.
Are photography and videography permitted inside the temple?
Though generally allowed in the temple complex, there can be a no-photography area within the temple complex—more so in places such as the sanctum sanctorum. Ask for permission before clicking.
How long does it take to go around the Shri Shantadurga Temple and its surroundings?
A visit to the temple alone would consume about 1-2 hours. Suppose you intend to see other places in the vicinity, like temples and spice plantations. In that case, it is wiser to reserve an entire day in the region.
Are guides available within the temple?
Although there are no centrally provided guides, local guides can always be found near the temple to make historical and cultural explanations. However, the credentials should always be checked before hiring a guide.
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