The state of Goa, in India, is famous for its beaches and places of worship, and tourism is its primary industry. Tourism is generally focused on the coastal areas of Goa, with decreased tourist activity inland. Foreign tourists, mostly from Europe, arrive in Goa in winter whilst the summer and monsoon seasons see a large number of Indian tourists. Goa handled 2.29% of all foreign tourist arrivals in the country in 2011. This relatively small state is situated on the western coast of India, between the borders of Maharashtra and Karnataka and is better known to the world as a former Portuguese enclave on Indian soil. Tourism is said to be the backbone of Goa’s economy
History of Goa – The history of Goa dates back to prehistoric times, though the present-day state of Goa was only established as recently as 1987. In spite of being India’s smallest state by area, Goa’s history is both long and diverse. It shares a lot of similarities with Indian history, especially with regard to colonial influences and a multi-cultural aesthetic. Situated on the Konkan Coast in Western India, Goa was[when?] one of the major trade centres in India. It attracted influential dynasties, seafarers, merchants, traders, monks and missionaries since its earliest known history. Throughout its history, Goa has undergone continual transformation, leaving an indelible impression on various aspects of its cultural and socio-economic development.
1. Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple – One of the many important Hindu temples in Goa, Shri Saptakoteshwar Temple stands with the architectural beauty of the Mughals, the mandap or the temple hall with designs from the Europeans and a tall lamp tower. Devotees from all over the country visit the holy place to attend an important annual temple festival called Gokulashtami. So, do not miss out on this magically beautiful place on your next trip to Goa.
Location: Narve, Bicholim, South Goa, Goa – 403714
Visiting time: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm, all days
Distance from Panaji: 37 kilometers
Entry: Free
2. Maruti Temple – The list of famous temples in Goa include Maruti Temple as well. A visit to Maruti Temple is a must on your trip to Goa. Maruti Temple is a perfect place for the history buffs due to a long yet an interesting 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: Near RTO Circle, Ponda-Panaji Highway, Ponda, Goa 403401
Nearby attractions: Reis Magos Fort, Mahalaxmi Temple, Goa State Museum, Panjim Heritage Walk
Visit duration: One hour
Visit timings: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
3. Mahalaxmi Temple – One of the most important and most visited Hindu temples in 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 attracts a lot 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
Major attractions: Festivals of Navratri and Chaitra Purnima
Visit timings: 6:30 am to 8:30 pm
4.Mahadeva 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 Tambdi Surla temple 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
5. Shri Shantadurga Temple – 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: Quepem, South Goa, Goa – 403703
Major attractions: Jatra Utsav festival
6. Shri Damodar Temple – 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: Sanguem, South Goa, Goa
Distance from Margao: 22 kilometers
6. Mahalasa Temple – 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: Shri Mahalasa Saunsthan, Mardol, Prirol, Goa
Nearby attractions: Butterfly Conservatory of Goa, Shri Naguesh Temple, Shantadurga Temple, Old Goa, Mangueshi Temple and Utorda Beach.
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