History
Shree Mangueshi Temple, located in the village of Mangeshi in Goa’s Ponda district, is one of the most prominent and revered Hindu temples in the state. Dedicated to Bhagavan Manguesh, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the temple is deeply significant to the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community and is a major pilgrimage site for devotees from across the region. The temple has a long and storied history, originally located in Cortalim and relocated to its present site in the 16th century to protect it from Portuguese colonial destruction during the period of religious conversions.
The temple architecture is a blend of traditional Hindu and Goan styles, featuring a majestic seven-story deepstambha (lamp tower), domes, balustrades, and whitewashed exteriors that give it a distinctive look. Inside, the sanctum houses the idol of Lord Manguesh in his iconic linga form, and the temple complex includes shrines to other deities as well. Known for its serene surroundings and well-maintained premises, the temple is especially vibrant during festivals like Mahashivaratri and the annual jatra, which attract large crowds of worshippers. Shree Mangueshi Temple stands as a testament to the enduring spiritual and cultural heritage of Goa.
Greatness:
Shree Mangueshi Temple, located in the village of Mangeshi in Goa, is one of the most prominent and respected temples in the state, dedicated to Lord Manguesh, a form of Lord Shiva. This temple is deeply rooted in Goa’s spiritual and cultural identity, having been relocated from its original site in Cortalim during the Portuguese era to protect it from destruction. The temple’s architecture is a graceful blend of traditional Goan Hindu style with touches of Portuguese influence, featuring a majestic seven-story deepastambha (lamp tower), elegant domes, and a beautifully maintained temple tank. The deity, worshipped with great reverence, is believed to bestow wisdom, strength, and protection upon devotees. Shree Mangueshi Temple is not only a spiritual center but also a symbol of the resilience and devotion of Goan Hindus through history. Its peaceful surroundings and rich rituals make it a cherished destination for pilgrims and visitors alike.
Specialities:
Shree Mangueshi Temple, located in Mangeshi village in Goa, is one of the most prominent and revered temples in the state, dedicated to Lord Mangesh, a form of Lord Shiva. This temple holds deep spiritual significance for the Goan Hindu community, especially the Goud Saraswat Brahmins, and is considered a major pilgrimage center.
Originally located in Cortalim, the deity was shifted to its present location during the Portuguese era to protect it from destruction. The current structure was built in the 18th century and reflects a blend of Hindu and Portuguese architectural influences, featuring white domes, balustrades, a grand seven-story deepastambha (lamp tower), and an elegant water tank believed to be over 400 years old.
The sanctum houses a sacred Shiva Lingam, and the temple is known for its peaceful ambiance, daily rituals, and cultural vibrancy. Festivals like Mahashivratri and Navaratri are celebrated with great devotion and grandeur, drawing large numbers of devotees. The temple’s serene setting, spiritual energy, and architectural beauty make it not only a center of worship but also a symbol of Goa’s enduring Hindu heritage.
Festivals:
- Rathotsava (Annual Jatra)
- Navaratri & Vijayadashami (Dasara)
- Diwali (Deepavali)
Timings:
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Evening: 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM
FAQs
Shree Mangueshi Temple is located in Mangeshi Village, Priol, in the Ponda Taluka of North Goa, India.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Mangesh, a form of Lord Shiva worshipped as Shri Manguesh by local Goan Hindus.
The temple is over 450 years old and is one of the most prominent and visited temples in Goa. It is an important spiritual center for the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community and showcases a blend of traditional Hindu and Goan temple architecture.
Yes. Visitors are required to wear modest and traditional attire. Shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothes are not allowed inside the temple premise
