Mangeshi Temple in Goa

Mangeshi Temple Architecture

The architecture of Mangeshi Temple is a delightful sight for tourists. It is constructed in an entirely quintessential Goan style. There are a number of striking features about the Mangeshi Temple in Goa. One of them is the unique Deepastambha. It is a seven-story lamp tower constructed in the shape of an octagon. The golden arches add a dash of glamour to the white lamp tower. It looks majestic especially during the night.  Another feature of the Temple is the figure of Nandi Bull, Lord Shiva’s carrier. The Sabha Griha is a large spacious hall which can accommodate over 500 devotees. The decor in the hall includes chandeliers from the nineteenth century. The central part of the Sabha Griha leads to the main Garbha Griha, which houses the sacred statue of Mangesh. The temple built in typical Goan architecture stands out against a sylvan backdrop of rolling green hills, making it a popular religious landmark to visit in Goa. 

Mangeshi Temple History

The Peshwas donated the land of Mangeshi village to the temple in 1739 by Shri Ramchandra Malhar Sukhtankar, a staunch follower of Shri Mangesh. The temple has been renovated twice from its original structure during the reign of the Marathas in Goa and again in the year 1890. The final renovation, when a golden Kalasha (vessel) was placed atop the dome, took place in 1973.

Mangeshi Temple in Goa is one of the most famous places to visit in Goa. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Manguesh which is an incarnation of Shiva. The Sanskrit words "mam girisha" got associated with Shiva and over time these words got abbreviated to Manguesh. The complex also houses shrines of Goddess Parvati and God Ganesha. 

Daily pujas in Mangeshi Temple in Goa are performed regularly. Every morning, pujas like Abhisheka, Laghurudra, and Maharudra are performed by the temple priests. There is also a Maha Aarti at noon and Panchopchar Pooja at late evening. Find out Mangeshi Temple timings here. Another feature of the Temple is the figure of Nandi Bull, Lord Shiva’s carrier. During the time of Ratha Yatra, an important festival, a lot of tourists visit the place. It happens during the month of Magha Purnima.