Temples of Ponda Goa
One of the very most reasons making Ponda Goa to be added among the favorite destination of the tourism is its tranquil and eye-delighting temples. Despite the Portuguese influence that dominated hotels in Goa over the centuries, it is fascinating to see how such a large number of Hindu temples have survived here.Goa temples really provides treat to the eyes, because of their architectural beauty. A Goan temple is called as Deul or a Sausthan The temple used to be the centre of the village or city, and all the other social, cultural and economic gatherings in Goa. Below is short list of Goan Temples.
Shri Manguesh Temple, Priol : This temple dedicated to lord Manguesh, ,a form of Lord Shiva, is situated 22 kms from Panaji at Priol in Ponda Taluka.Shri Shantadurga Temple at Kavlem : Built in 1738 by king Shahu of Satara, this temple is the largest and most famous in hotels in Goa. An impressive idol of Goddess Durga is worshipped here.The temple has an impressive idol of Goddess Shantadurga, in tranquility, with Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva on each side.
Shri Mahalaxmi Temple at Bandora : It is 4 kilometers away from Ponda.The Goddess of shakti cult is venerated here. The Goddess Mahalakshmi was adored here by shilahara rulers. 18 idols of Vishnu in wood enhances the beauty of the temple.
Shri Nagesh Temple at Bandora: This beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Elaborated wooden carving with Ramayana themes on one side and images of Ashtadikpal and Gandharva on the other side are a characteristic.
Shri Bagavati temple : This complex of 5-temples is situated 7 kilometers from Penem.This temple is nearly 500 years old. The entrance is flanked by 2 life-sized mammoths in black stone. The statue of Goddess Bhagavathi Ashtabhuja is impressive.
Shri Mahalsa at Mardol: This temple is just a kilometer off Shri Manguesh temple,is known for Gomantaka fulfilling the wishes of the devotees.
Apart from above, Shri Chandranath at Quepem , Brahma Temple at Carambolim, Shri Damodar temple at Zambaulim, Shri Datta mandir in Bicholim,Shri Gopal Ganapathi temple at Ponda are all esteemed and among the amazing temples of India.