A Visit to the Holy Shri Mangesh Temple of Lord Shiva in Goa

We had an awesome time at the Dudhsagar waterfall. The sound of the gushing water still echoes in my ears and I feel so thrilled remembering he cheerful and lively time that we spent there. Hereafter we planned to visit a famous religious site of Goa i.e. the Shri Mangesh temple. It is a renowned holy destination for followers of lord Shiva, the destroyer. Tourists from all parts of the country visit this famous hotspot to pay tribute to the presiding deity.

The temple is located at the apex of a small hill and the lush emerald surroundings that envelope this pristine place of worship add to its charm and popularity among onlookers and tourists. The distinctive white towers constructed at the entrance of the Mangesh temple give it a very majestic feel. The temple is one of the richest and most visited temples in Goa.

The distinctive white towers constructed at the entrance of the Mangesh Temple | Image Resource : wikimedia.org

Located at a distance of 22 kilometres from the capital city Panaji and 26 kilometres from Margao the temple is easily commutable via public transport. The temple architecture is exquisite and is a treat to art and history lovers. There is a prominent sculpture of a bull i.e. Nandi which is supposed to be the Vahana or carrier of Lord Shiva according to Hindu mythology.

There is a sprawling courtyard in the premises which is surrounded by a number of buildings which comprise of the main temples and rooms for accommodating pilgrims as well as for organizing weddings.

Shri Mangesh Temple Goa | Image Resource : wikimedia.org

The magnificent tank that lies in the temple premises is the most significant and oldest part of this monument. The chandeliers dating back to the 19th century still adorn the temple interiors. Moreover the walls are engraved with figures of lord Shiva in various poses and forms. The SabhaGriha is the meditation hall where devotees of Shiva assemble twice a day to attain solace and blessings of the presiding deity.

The temple depicts the traditional Goan Hindu style of architecture. The view from the top of the hill where this glorious temple is located is enchanting. The view of the sprawling farmlands and gentle breeze that pampers devotees and visitors allure more of tourists to his prominent site.