Temples in Goa
Goa is known for its churches, but it is also home to some of the most important Hindu temples on the Konkan coast. Many were rebuilt in the green hills around Ponda, away from Portuguese-ruled areas, and their white towers and tall lamp pillars look quite different from temples elsewhere in India.
On one day you can see the Baroque churches of Old Goa and the temples of Ponda, which are under an hour apart by road. All of them are active places of worship, so dress modestly and follow the rules at each one.
Mahalasa Narayani Temple
Vishnu · Krishna templeGoddess Mahalasa Narayani — revered as Mohini, the female form of Vishnu, and also identified with Parvati
Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, Bandora
Devi · Shakti templeGoddess Mahalaxmi — Lakshmi, goddess of prosperity
Shri Mangueshi Temple
Shiva templeLord Shiva as Manguesh (Mangueshi), worshipped as a swayambhu lingam
Shri Shantadurga Temple
Devi · Shakti templeGoddess Shanta Durga — the peaceful form of Durga who ended the war between Vishnu and Shiva
Famous Temples in Goa
Shri Mangueshi Temple, in Priol near Ponda, is dedicated to Lord Mangesh, a form of Shiva. It is known for its white lamp tower (deepastambha), temple tank and quiet hillside setting.
Shri Shantadurga Temple, in Kavlem near Ponda, is dedicated to Goddess Shantadurga, a peaceful form of Durga. Its large courtyard, domed roof and lamp tower make it one of the most visited temples in Goa.
Famous Churches in Goa
The Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa holds the relics of St Francis Xavier and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Churches and Convents of Goa.
Se Cathedral, across the square in Old Goa, is one of the largest churches in Asia and is also part of the World Heritage Site.
The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Panaji is known for its white façade and the zig-zag staircase in front of it.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Goa
- Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Shorts, short skirts and sleeveless tops are not allowed at Mangueshi and Shantadurga.
- Remove your shoes before entering temples, and wear slip-ons to make this easier.
- Photography is not allowed inside the main shrine of the temples, and is restricted inside the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
- Remove caps and hats inside churches.
- Keep quiet during prayers and services, and do not walk in front of worshippers.
- Visit in the morning to avoid the midday heat and tour groups.
- Temple festivals and church feasts draw big crowds, so check dates before you go.
Questions
Goa — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Goa?
The best-known temples are Shri Mangueshi Temple and Shri Shantadurga Temple, both near Ponda. Goa's most visited churches are the Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral in Old Goa.
Is there a dress code at Mangueshi Temple?
Yes. Shorts, short skirts, sleeveless tops and other revealing clothes are not allowed. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Can I take photos inside Goa's temples?
Photography is not allowed inside the main shrine at Mangueshi and Shantadurga. You can usually take photos of the courtyard, the lamp towers and the outside of the temples.
How far are the Ponda temples from Panaji?
The temples around Ponda are usually under an hour's drive from Panaji. Many visitors combine them with Old Goa, which is on the way.