Discover the Mahadev Temple in Goa

Side view of Mahadev Temple in Goa, India; Shutterstock ID 110998595; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Mahadev Temple, Tambdi Surla, Goa, India; Shutterstock ID 110999225; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Temple in Tambdi Surla, Goa; Shutterstock ID 1036792207; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Temple in Tambdi Surla, Goa, made of black stone.; Shutterstock ID 1153968172; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Sural or Surla Waterfalls : Surla the village falls in border of Karnataka-Goa State.

Kirtimukha on the carving of Lord Vishnu at Mahadev Temple, 12th-century temple, located at Tambdi Surla, Goa State, India; Shutterstock ID 1327751039; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

Ancient Tambdi Surla Temple in Goa; Shutterstock ID 1709973022; purchase_order: -; job: -; client: -; other: -

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)

A place of worship, the hub of history

The Mahadev Temple in Tambi Surla, Mollem will take you down the journey of Goa's rich cultural and historical heritage. The temple is tucked away in the verdant landscape of the village and exudes a serene aura. It was conceived in the twelfth century which reflects in its art and architecture. The interesting blend of Jain architectural style and Kadamba-Yadava craftsmanship makes you take a second look and ponder about the times gone by and its artistic brilliance.

The temple lies kilometres away from the main city. It’s remote location, tucked away from bustling settlements, adds an air of mystique to its charm.

So, when you plan a trip to Goa, do not forget to take time out and drive down to this seat of divine power and sanctity. The serene landscape, the air of spirituality and the calmness will be worth it.

Black beauty

The most unique quality of this temple is its colour. It is crafted from black basalt which makes it look charming and special. A sight of the temple with its petite stature, intricate carvings of Hindu mythology will immerse you in a divine charm. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a very rare specimen of Kadamba-Yadava architecture preserved amidst the verdant expanse of Goa. As you walk inside the temple you will reach its sanctum sanctorum. This is where the sacred linga, symbolizing the presence of Lord Shiva lies. They say, there’s a colossal King Cobra, sitting silently as a guardian of the inner sanctum.

Other deities like Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma along with Lord Shiva and their consorts have their etchings on the temple's walls. It is as if the divine presence blending with the aura of the sanctum leaves behind reverence and devotion. As you enter the mandap, you will find a headless Nandi, the faithful mount of Lord Shiva, ensconced amidst four stately columns. The symbolism of the Kadamba kingdom, embodied by an elephant triumphantly trampling a horse, is etched upon the base of one of these pillars, a silent tribute to Goa's storied past. Above, a roof of plain grey sloping slabs shelters the mandap, a stark contrast to the intricate carvings adorning its walls.

The melody of faith

Neighbouring the temple is the peaceful and pristine River Surla which sounds like a melodic lullaby. During Mahashivratri dawns, the temple springs to life with fervent devotion, resonating with the joyous chants of devotees from surrounding villages. If you ever visit the temple during the celebration months your senses will be immersed with the scent of incense and the echo of sacred hymns. This is the time when Mahadev Temple becomes a beacon of spiritual celebration, bridging the gap between the past and the present, and inviting all who seek solace to bask in its divine embrace.

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Timings

Opening time - 08:30 AM

Closing time - 05:30 PM

Beyond the Temple

Post your Mahadev Temple visit, you can head over to the lush wilderness of Mollem National Park which invites with its verdant trails and cascading waterfalls – a true haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The majestic Dudhsagar Falls, a breathtaking cascade of milky white waters is also nearby. It vanishes as a serene pool below, creating an ethereal spectacle amidst the dense foliage. Even the Tambdi Surla Waterfall invites visitors to immerse themselves in its cool embrace, surrounded by towering trees and pristine natural beauty. If you like history you can visit the Tambdi Surla village which talks about the region's rich cultural heritage, with its quaint streets and centuries-old architecture. And as the day draws to a close, indulge in a leisurely stroll along the banks of the river Surla, basking in the tranquil serenity of Goa's countryside as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and gold.