Goa, the land of sun and surf is more than a fun place. It is known for its architectural marvels and spiritual places too. Shri Mangeshi Temple, a spectacular temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Ponda Taluka attracts devotees in huge numbers. One of the major temples in Goa, it is approximately 450 years old. Built in typical Goan architectural style, this temple has a water tank and stunning dome. Perched atop a hill, it is surrounded by verdant landscapes. It is one of the most-visited, wealthiest, and oldest temples in Goa. This temple has become a very significant spot for pilgrims and also a major tourist attraction for people arriving here from different parts of the world. It is a lovely Hindu shrine with a lot of spiritual significance associated with it. Approximately 21 km away from Panjim, it is situated in North Goa.
This spectacular temple is dedicated to Bhawan Mangesh who is revered as one of the reincarnations of Lord Shiva. As the legend goes, Lord Shiva has transformed himself into a tiger to scare his beloved wife Parvati. After seeing the tiger, Goddess Parvati got quite scared and went in search of Lord Shiva crying out ‘Trahi Maam Girisha’ which over time diluted down to Manguirisha or Mangueshi. If you like traveling to unique places then this temple is going to be a good choice. This spot offers an incredible mix of Goa’s charming feels along with the spiritual relevance of a significant temple spot.
Best Time to Visit Shri Mangeshi Temple
The best time to visit Shri Mangeshi Temple is from mid-November to mid-February. The weather is delightful during this time and perfect to visit the temple. Devotees must visit the temple during the annual Magha Purnima festival. A chariot procession or a rath yatra is taken out on the day of Magh Purnima. The deity is decorated in royal garbs and taken around the village in a chariot. This royal procession is worth witnessing. A large number of pilgrims and devotees gather to watch the procession going through the village.
History of Shri Mangeshi Temple
Shri Mangeshi Temple traces its roots back to the Kushasthali in Cortalim. It is an adorable village that was invaded by the Portuguese in 1543. In 1560, when the Portuguese started the conversion to Christianity, the locals moved the Mangesh Linga from its original site to Kushasthali on the river banks of Aghanashini where it is presently located in the village of Atrunja Taluka.
The temple was then transferred to this village; it has gone for renovation work twice, the first time during the reign of the Marathas and the second time in 1890. And recently, the last renovation was done in 1973 when specifically a Golden Kalasha was fitted at the top of the temple premise. It is said that the oldest structure was quite simple in its built and architectural style. The current structure, however, was constructed in a more refined way during the Maratha rule. Anyway, soon after the structure was built, this area fell into the hands of Portuguese rulers.
It is prudent to note that the majority of Goan temples are located in the areas that came under the possession of Portuguese rulers.
Top Attractions in and around Shri Mangeshi Temple
Built in the typical Goan Hindu style of architecture, Shri Mangeshi Temple is known for its spiritual significance. People visiting Goa make it a point to visit the temple and seek the blessings of the deity. Here are some of the magnificent attractions of the temple and its surrounding areas.
1. Deepstambh
Visit the temple and appreciate the amazing seven-storeyed lamp tower. The octagonal-shaped, Deepstambha in the temple complex is surrounded by a lovely water body, a huge tank filled with water. It is believed to be the oldest part of the temple. When lit with Diyas, the visitors can feel a distinctive divine vibe.
2. Unique Architecture
The temple has magnificent white towers that can be seen from afar. The entrance to the temple is simple yet elegant. The temple has an impressive statue of Nandi, the bull God ridden by Lord Shiva. The huge temple premises has a courtyard where weddings are solemnized. There are rooms available for the pilgrims to stay in.
3. Khandepar Cave Temples
These are located in Ponda Taluka on the banks of the Khandepar river. It is believed that these caves were built around the 12th century and were discovered in 1970. For any history lover, these caves are a very nice option to explore.
4. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Here, the tourists get to explore some of the most unique species of animals. Spot wildlife like wild Boar, Sambhar, and more wildlife species. It is also a perfect place for bird lovers who love spotting rare birds.
5. Cansaulim Beach
This is perhaps one of the most amazing options to go with if you want to chill and unwind. It is just the kind of spot where you would love to click some cool pictures and make some unforgettable memories.
6. Majorda Beach
The overall aura of this beach is quite calm and serene and perhaps this is one factor that makes this beach come across as one of the best sites to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Click Here to Book Tour Packages
How To Reach Shri Mangeshi Temple
Goa has always been known as the party capital of India with scintillating nightlife and oodles of fun and exciting activities waiting to be explored. Its spiritual side is largely unexplored. For the uninitiated, Goa is also known for its amazing spiritual places like Shri Mangeshi Temple. Visitors can arrive at the temple using any mode of transport as Goa is well connected with different parts of the country and the world. Here is how you can reach this attraction.
- Nearest Major City. Panjim
- Nearest Airport. Panjim Airport
- Nearest Railway Station. Karmali Railway Station
- Distance from Panjim. 22.7 km
By Air. The nearest airport to reach Shri Mangeshi Temple is Panjim Airport or Goa International Airport. It serves the destination and nearby areas. The airport offers several flight options, making it convenient for visitors. After deboarding the flight, visitors can hire a taxi or a cab to reach Shri Mangeshi Temple. They can also arrive at the beach by private and state-run buses.
- Distance from Panjim Airport. 32.4 km
Click Here to Book Flights at a Reasonable Price
By Train. There is good connectivity of train routes from Karmali Railway Station to all parts of the country. From the Railway Station, tourists can take a cab or just a walk to the center of the town. State-run and private buses are also available to help passengers reach Shri Mangeshi Temple from Karmali Railway Station.
- Distance from Karmali Railway Station. 5 km
By Road. Depending on your geographical location, you can consider traveling to Shri Mangeshi Temple by road as well. The overall road network which includes national highways is well-maintained and easily accessible. As per your convenience, you can choose to travel by state-run buses, cabs, or by your personal vehicles as well.
- Distance From Pune. 438.5 km
- Distance From Amravati. 943.6 km
- Distance From Nagpur. 1090 km
- Distance From Nashik. 656.8 km
- Distance From Kolhapur. 215 km
- Distance From Ahmednagar. 539.3 km
- Distance From Jalgaon. 833.5 km
- Distance From Solapur. 409.3 km
- Distance From Delhi. 1970.1 km
- Distance From Mumbai. 597.6 km
- Distance From Kolkata. 2162.3 km
- Distance From Bengaluru. 560.7 km
Frequently Asked Questions About Shri Mangeshi Temple
Ques 1. Why is Mangeshi Temple famous?
Ans 1. Shri Mangeshi Temple in Goa is dedicated to Bhagwan Mungesh or Lord Shiva. As the legend goes, Lord Shiva has transformed himself into a tiger to scare his beloved wife Parvati. After seeing the tiger, Goddess Parvati got quite scared and went in search of Lord Shiva crying out ‘Trahi Maam Girisha’ which over time diluted down to Manguirisha or Mangueshi.
Ques 2. What is the best time to visit Shri Mangeshi Temple?
Ans 2. The best time to visit Shri Mangeshi Temple is from October to March. During these months, the weather is delightful, making it perfect for exploring the stunning outdoors. Check out the unique architectural features of the temple.
Ques 3. Which is the closest airport to Shri Mangeshi Temple?
Ans 3. The closest airport to reach Shri Mangeshi Temple is Panjim Airport. The airport is just 32.4 kilometers away from the temple.
Ques 4. How old is Shri Mangeshi Temple?
Ans 4. Shri Mangeshi Temple was built 400-years old.
Ques 5. Are there flights available from different Indian cities to Goa to reach Shri Mangeshi Temple?
Ans 5. Yes, there are flights to Goa from different Indian cities.
Book exclusive Tour Packages, hotels, flights, buses, and more with Adotrip and get the best offers along with end-to-end services. We ensure the best price and services for a memorable vacation for all our clients. With us, nothing is far!
