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Goa

Shri Shanta Durga Temple

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map

January

17.4 - 35.2 °C

February

17.9 - 36.2 °C

March

20.2 - 35.5 °C

April

22.6 - 35.3 °C

May

23.0 - 35.4 °C

June

22.2 - 34.4 °C

July

22.4 - 31.5 °C

August

22.7 - 31.2 °C

September

22.7 - 32.2 °C

October

21.7 - 35.0 °C

November

19.6 - 35.4 °C

December

18.3 - 34.9 °C


Major Airports :

Dabolim Airport (GOI), Goa

Manohar International Airport (GOX), North Goa

Nearest Railway Station :

Madgaon Junction Railway Station (MAO)

Major Airports :

Dabolim Airport (GOI), Goa

Manohar International Airport (GOX), North Goa

What's in a name

Snuggled into the arms of the verdant greens and tranquillity of Ponda, Goa sits the Shanta Durga Temple like a beacon of peace and spiritual solace. The very essence of the Goddess lies enshrined within her name. Dating back to the 18th century, this sacred sanctuary was dedicated to the revered Goddess Shree Durga, celebrated for her serene and composed demeanor.

The focal point of devotion is the resplendent idol of Shree Durga, gracefully adorned and radiating divine grace. Flanked by the formidable presence of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, locked in eternal conflict, the Goddess assumes the role of a divine mediator, seeking to reconcile their differences and restore harmony to the cosmos. This captivating portrayal symbolizes the Goddess's unwavering commitment to peace and her eternal quest for balance amidst chaos.

 

Many believe that the Goddess was first installed in the small cosy village of Cavelossim in Salcette but was later relocated to its current site in Kavalem. The shift came after the Portuguese plundered and destroyed historical monuments and temples to construct churches and propagate the teachings of Christianity. With each visit to the Shanta Durga Temple, devotees are drawn into a timeless journey of faith and introspection, guided by the luminous presence of the Goddess and the sanctity of her sacred abode.

The richness of heritage

The Shree Shantadurga temple is not just a religious edifice. It also is a monument that reminds the city of its rich cultural heritage. It teaches about faith and helps us reminisce about an age gone by when opulence was obvious and normal. The richness of the state, helped the authorities create architecture so grand that it's fascinating to imagine building these imposing structures today. 

The grandness of faith

The façade leaves a lot of tourists spellbound  even as the entrance has designs that recreate scenes and happenings from Hindu mythology. Step into the compound and a huge courtyard is host to small shrines of different Gods, with the sanctum hall in the centre. This is where Goddess Shanta Durga resides. If you are imagining a confluence of Hindu and Portuguese sensibilities, Shree Shanta Durga is a magnificent example. 


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Timings

Opening time - 06:00 AM

Closing time - 08:30 PM

Remembering the divine daily

It isn’t just on special occasions but every day that rituals and prayers are held at the temple. The popularity of the temple is so immense that devotees don't just come from the immediate neighbourhood but from far-off places so that they can seek the blessings of the Goddess herself. The air gets heavy with whispers of prayers, the aroma of incense sticks and the fragrance of flowers. Goans celebrate the Zatra festival at this temple. They convene together and perform various forms of art like dance, drama, or even music with great joy and positive energy.

Beyond the Temple

Just a short distance from the temple, you can walk over and immerse your senses in the bustling markets of Ponda. From traditional handicrafts and spices to local delicacies, you can pick, choose, and experience the charming coastal life. But if retail therapy isn’t to your taste, you can look for a deeper connection at the nearby Mangeshi Temple. You can get a peep into the state's devout Hindu traditions, with its exquisite architecture and sacred rituals. For nature enthusiasts, the trail leads to lush landscapes that envelop the temple, with opportunities for scenic walks and birdwatching amidst the verdant hills and tranquil rivers. You can also visit the Sahakari Spice Farm to discover the secrets of Goa's spice trade and indulge in a guided tour of the sprawling plantations. 

Whether exploring the vibrant markets, delving into Goa's rich spiritual heritage, or simply basking in the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside, your Goan experience is sure to be rich and opulent.