If Goa was just a location for you to relax and party, you may have missed out on a number of architecturally and culturally significant temples.
ItsGoa takes you on a special journey across the state of Goa, exploring the 20 popular temples in Goa. The list of famous Goan temples covers all types of visitors, including worshipers, history buffs, photographers, and adventure seekers.
Shri Mahadeva Temple, Tambdi Surla
Mahadeva Temple, which has been designated as a protected monument, is old enough to be included among Goa’s old temples. On the architectural basis, dedicated to Lord Shiva is a one-of-a-kind self. A pillared entrance hall with a three-stepped entrance to worship the linga is fashioned of the finest basalt stones. Throughout the year, worshipers and nature lovers flock to Goa’s Mahadev Temple.
Mahadev Temple is a mediaeval Shiva temple in Goa that is thought to be the region’s oldest shrine. The temple’s interior sanctum sanctorum contains a linga.
Constructed in the Jain style, the temple dates back to the 12th century. What makes it so special is the fact that it is the only structure representing the Kadamba-Yadava architectural style that can be seen in Goa today. Intricate carvings adorn the walls of the basalt stone shrine, making it a visual treat to your eyes.
The shrine’s attractiveness is enhanced by the luxuriant flora that surrounds it. Thousands of devotees flock to the temple during the annual Mahashivratri festival to offer their respects to Lord Shiva. During the night, according to local folklore, a massive king cobra resides inside the temple.
Declared as a protected monument, Mahadeva Temple is historic enough to fall in the category of the old temples in Goa. Dedicated to Lord Shiva is a unique self on the architectural basis. A pillared entrance hall, made up of the finest basalt stones and also bears a three-stepped entrance to worship the linga. The Mahadev Temple in Goa attracts devotees and nature lovers as well throughout the year.
Location: Near Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, Sanguem, Surla, Goa 403406
Major attractions: Festival of Mahashivratri
Timing: 8 AM – 8 PM (All days)
Entry – Free; Timings – N/A
Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple, Mayem
One of the various important Hindu temples in Goa, Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple stands with the architectural great thing about the Mughals, the mandap or the temple hall with designs from the Europeans and a tall lamp tower. Devotees from everywhere the country visit the sanctum to attend a crucial annual temple festival called Gokulashtami. So, do not miss out on this magically beautiful place on your next trip to Goa.
Location: Temple Road, Narve, Mayem, Goa 403403
Visiting timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm, All days
Major attractions: European architecture
Shri Maruti Temple, Panaji
The list of famous temples in Goa include Maruti Temple also . A visit to Maruti Temple may be a must on your trip to Goa. Maruti Temple may be a perfect place for the history buffs thanks to an extended yet a stimulating story behind the building of this temple. Lord Hanuman or the Monkey God is worshipped here. Do visit Maruti Temple when in Goa to explore the intriguing history behind its construction.
Location: Nanu Tarkar Pednekar Rd, Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001
Visit timings: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
Major attractions: Splendid architecture
Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, Ponda
One of the foremost important and most visited Hindu temples in North Goa, Mahalaxmi Temple abodes the presiding deity of the Panaji Village. The sanctum of this splendid temple has around 18 pious images which depict the sects from the Holy Bhagavata.
Mahalaxmi Temple of Goa attracts tons of pilgrims throughout the year. Wearing a linga on her head, the deity of Mahalakshmi is worshipped as the Goddess of wealth and peace.
Location: Bandivade, Ponda, North Goa, Goa
Visit timings: 6:30 am to 8:30 pm
Major attractions: Festivals of Navratri and Chaitra Purnima
Shri Shantadurga Temple, Quepem
Surprisingly, the Temple of Shantadurga can be found at three places in Goa. Shantadurga temples in Goa are at Kavlem, Pemem, and Quepem.
The Shantadurga Temple located in Quepem is a true symbol that God Is One because here, the deity is worshipped by both Hindus as well as the Christians. As the name suggests, this serene place is a true symbol of peace and harmony. Also, it is a must visit among the many temples in South Goa.
Location: Ghudo-Avedem, Quepem, Goa 403705
Visit timings: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Major attractions: Jatra Utsav festival
Shri Damodar Temple, Margao
Situated on the banks of the Kushawati River, Shri Damodar Temple is the home to the deity of Lord Shiva’s incarnation as Lord Damodar. A large number of devotees believe that Kushavati River can heal the body ills with its healing power.
According to the temple rituals, there is a Palanquin carried out where the ideal of the Lord Damodar is held around the temple premises.
During the procession, it takes around fourteen halts to just stand for a while and sing bhajans. Do your next trip to Goa some justice and visit this one of the famous temples in Goa to witness the colours and songs of peace.
Location: Fatorda, Margao, Goa 403602
Visit timings: NA
Major attractions: Songs and festivals
Shri Mahalasa Temple, Ponda
With a sack full of various beliefs, the Mahalsa Temple is among other famous temples in Goa. Some say that the small pool of water inside the temple was sprouted by Goddess when she struck it with her toe. And to no surprise, an idol was found at that same place with hundreds of stories behind it.
To attain divine experience, one must attend the aarti sequences or maybe the daily rounds of worship held in the temple premises.
Location: Mardol, Ponda, Goa 403404
Visit timings: 12:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Major attractions: Water pool
Shri Mangeshi Temple, Mardol
Goa is majorly full of Hindu temples and another significant one among the Hindu temples in Goa is the Mangueshi Temple in Goa. One of the best places to visit in North Goa, this temple is known for the Deep Stambha to the North of the structure which is at its best when lit with hundreds of diyas in the evening. A beautiful combination of modern day art and traditional Hindu pattern, The Mangueshi Temple is must visit on your list of famous temples here.
Location: Dinanath Mangeshkar Rd, Mangeshi Village, Mardol, Goa 403401
Visit timings: 6:00 Am to 10:00 PM
Major attractions: Celebration of Ram Navami, Navratri, Maha Shivratri and Jatra Utsav
Shri Nagesh Temple, Ponda
Another important and significant temple among the temples in Goa is the Nagesh Temple. Naguesh Temple is famous for its strong & stable background. It is the only temple in Goa that was not rebuilt ever and was just renovated.
You would not want to miss on the chance to see the beautiful reflections of the images that are created in the pool of the temple. This is what carries numerous tourists to the Naguesh Temple from all over the Goa.
Location: Bandiwade, Donshiwado, Ponda, Goa 403401
Visit timings: NA
Major attractions: Celebration of Shivratri
Shri Brahma Temple, Sattari
This Brahma Temple is a must visit among the Brahma temples in Goa to experience a divine temple tour. The tall and elegant idol of Lord Brahma stands in the center of the premises. The idol of Lord Brahma is portrayed in Trimurti form. It is believed that Lord Brahma will bless everyone who will come to see him. Further, which attracts a lot Hindu crowd to all the Goa temples.
Brahma Karmali Temple or the Brahma Temple is the only temple in Goa that is dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe as per Hindu mythology. The intricately crafted idol of Lord Brahma enshrined in this temple is believed to date back to the 12th century. In this idol, Lord Brahma appears along with Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. What strikes visitors about the temple is the serenity of the place where it is located. The temple complex is ideal to spend a few moments soaking in the calm ambiance.
Built in the 5th century AD, the Brahma Temple is one of the ancient pilgrim centres for Hindus situated in the lovely Carambolim village in Goa. This sacred place is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma in the city and the well-defined beautiful image of Brahma, made out of black stone that dates back to the 12th century, is one of the main highlights of this temple.
Location: Brahma Taluka Carambolim, Satari, Goa 403506
Visit timings: NA
Major attractions: 5th century architecture
Shri Kamakshi Temple, Shiroda
Another magnificent construction, Shri Kamakshi’s temple is set in breathtaking settings, adding to its beauty and allure. When a pilgrim travels this far, all he requires is a divine ambience. Unlike other well-known temples in Goa, Kamakshi Temple has a water tank within its sanctum. Tourists come from all around Goa to see the magnificent beauty and sanctity of the site.
Goddess Kamakshi is the embodiment of the Universal Mother Goddess, in case you didn’t know. The Kamakshi Temple in Goa is devoted to Goddess Kamakhya or Kamakshi, a highly regarded Assamese deity. She is one of the most important goddesses in tantric cults. The magnificent idol of the goddess, fashioned from a Salagrama shila, draws attention to the shrine. The temple’s main tower has a stunning design that resembles a Buddhist pagoda. Along the corners of the temple ceiling are images of hooded serpents. The temple compound is enhanced with a big water tank.
The tranquil ambiance and gorgeous surroundings further add to the temple’s allure. This temple may not be the largest or most popular among tourists (not worshippers), but it is without a doubt one of the most incredible in Goa.
Location: Shiroda, Ponda
Timings: 5:30 am to 12:00 pm and 3:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Location: Shiroda, Goa 403103
Shri Laxmi Narasimha Temple, Mardol
As the list grows, it appears that Goa has everything but temples. With its antique charm, the Laxmi Narasimha temple stands out among Goa’s temples. Because there is a temple on every corner and a larger community of devotees, temple tours in India will never be in short supply. Laxmi Narasimha Temples is one of Goa’s oldest temples, with a freshwater spring that fills the temple tank and incredibly detailed carvings.
Shri Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is a must-see temple in Veling village, Goa, with outstanding architecture that includes wonderful paintings and wooden relief sculptures. This temple, devoted to Lord Vishnu and his spouse, Goddess Lakshmi, was built in the 18th century.
The temple’s highlights include a beautiful water tank encircled by coconut palm trees, a temple hall filled with pictures of Lord Vishnu in various avatars, a musician’s gallery, and spectacular annual events.
Location: Veling, Mardol, Goa 403404
Visit timings: 6:30 AM to 12:45 PM; 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Major attractions: The location itself
Shri Ramnath Temple, Ponda
Ramnath is one of the incarnations of Lord Shiva to whom Lord Ram paid homage and worshipped before crossing the rivers into Sri Lanka, according to legend. As a result, Shri Ramnath Temple is extremely important in Hindu culture, and it is one of the most well-known Hindu temples in Goa.
The deepstambh and idols of other Gods besides Lord Ramnath are a must-see while visiting this temple. If we go back in time, Shree Ramnath is the outcome of Vishnu and Shiva’s union. The name is a mix of the words Ram and Natha. It is stated that as the ocean churned, Lord Shiva consumed the poison that resulted from the churning.
This rendered his throat blue and caused a burning feeling, which could only be relieved by chanting Rana Nama. As a result, the temple is a magnificent creation that is revered by both Vishnu and Shiva believers.
Lord Rama, Lakshmi Narayan, Lord Ganesh, Kamakshi, Shanteri, and Betal & Kalbhairav are all worshipped at Shri Ramnath Temple, also known as the Ramnathi Temple. For the Gowda Saraswat Brahmins, the 450-year-old temple holds great religious significance. It was originally located in Salcete, but was moved in the 16th century to avoid the Portuguese capturing the idols.
Location: Shree Ramnath Devasthan, Ramnathim, Ponda, Goa 403401
Visit timings: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
Shri Bhagwati Temple, Ponda
Shri Bhagavati Temple is devoted to Goddess Bhagwati, a version of Goddess Laxmi, and is said to be 500 years old. The temple is wonderfully constructed, with two massive black elephants greeting pilgrims at the gate. Shri Bhagavati Temple is perhaps well-known among Goa temples because it gets a large number of tourists during Dusshera.
It is recommended that you visit this temple while the festivals are approaching so that you can observe the vibrant and lively celebrations. Parshem is home to the Shri Bhagwati temple.
The entire temple complex consists of five temples, the most important of which is dedicated to Devi Bhagwati. The temple is known for its two tanks known as ‘Deepstambhas.’ Brahma, Shri Sateri, Shri Dev Ravalnath, and Shri Dev Bhivangi Panchakshari all have temples dedicated to them. The deities are exquisitely crafted, and many visitors go to see them as well as the temple’s exquisite design.
During the Indian month of Kartika, the primary temple celebration is conducted, and worshippers flock in droves to this place of worship. The temple is reported to be around 500 years old and has withstood the Portuguese persecution of various religions and cultures.
Location: Dhavali, Yashwant Nagar, Ponda, Goa 403401
Visit timings: NA
Major attractions: Celebrations on Dussehra
Shri Rudreshwar Temple, Sankli
Shri Rudreshwar Temple offers a pleasant atmosphere. The temple, also known as Lord Shiva’s Sanctuary, is located along the Harvalem waterfalls. Pilgrims attend temple rites to seek salvation as well as prosperity and cure from disease. In the midst of the spectacular gleaming showers, the majestic image of Rudreshwar faces the waterfall. Rudreshwar Temple is one of Goa’s most stunning structures.
On your spiritual Goa tour, don’t miss the chance to see the enthralling beauty of Gods. Shri Rudreshwar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is quite a sight, accessible through a series of stairs located beside the spectacular 70-meter high Harvalem Waterfall.
Apart from the everyday crowds of devotees that come to worship the deity in the morning, the temple also draws a significant audience on two occasions: one when Hindus come to perform rites for the deceased, and the other during Mahashivratri celebrations.
Location: Rudreshwar Colony, Sanquelim, Goa 403505
Visit timings: NA
Major attractions: The sanctuary is most delightful and joyous on the occasion of Mahashivratri. Hindu pilgrims also visit this temple to perform the ceremonies of the dead.
Shri Adinath Temple, Margao
The temple grounds also serve as a Dharamshala, with conveniences such as pure vegetarian meals and comfortable lodging alternatives. The deity in the temple’s sanctum is built of white marble, which gives out tranquil sensations all around. 1008 Adinath Digambar Jain Mandir, Goa’s lone Jain temple, is a must-see for all Jain tourists.
This is Goa’s lone Jain temple. According to Janisim, 1st thrithankar Bhagavan Adhinath, also known as Rishabh Dev, is the one who taught people agriculture, animal husbandry, cookery, and ahimsa. He also has 100 sons, and his grandson, Mahavir, is the last thritankar. The stunning temple was built in about 15 months in 2006-07, thanks to community donations and contributions.
Shri Adinath Digambar Jain Mandir is a well-kept Jains’ place of worship near Margao railway station in Goa. The temple is well-known for its exquisite construction and god figure; the serene atmosphere of the location is also highly regarded. In addition, there is a Jain Dharamshala adjacent to this temple that has very clean AC and Non-AC rooms where people can stay at very low rates.
Location: Mugalli, Near Rosery Chapel, Davorlim Road, Margao, Goa 403601
Visit timings: NA
Major attractions: Interiors
Shri Bhootnath Temple, Quepem
One of the most popular temples in South Goa is Chandreshwar Bhoothnath Temple. This historic temple is perched atop Chandranath Hill, making it a great vantage point. To get to the temple, you can either climb the granite stairs or drive on the motorable road that goes there. The Lord of the Moon, Lord Shiva, is worshipped here.
The Shiva Linga inside the shrine is positioned so that it shines brightly on full moon evenings, which is a beautiful sight to see. When the moon lights the linga, it is also stated that water comes out of it! Also see our list of locations to visit at night. You can also visit a nearby minor temple while you’re here. Bhoothnath, the Lord of the Ghosts, is another form of Lord Shiva, and this temple is dedicated to him.
Whether or not you believe in ghosts, a visit to Chandreshwar Bhoothnath Temple will undoubtedly be a memorable experience.
Location: Paroda, Quepem taluka
Timings: 5:30 am to 8:30 pm
Shri Balaji Devastan, Goa Velha
The Tirupathi Balaji temple is well-known, although few people are aware of the facts surrounding it. It stands for equality, love, and the outright prohibition of animal sacrifice. You may witness the Lord of Seven Hills deity in Tirumala, which is a real masterpiece.
An old Sri Venkateshwara temple can be found on the seventh peak. Millions of worshippers visit and worship at the main temple complex. This makes it extremely desirable for the temple to be included among India’s richest temples.
