The Shri Mangueshi temple is located at Mangueshi in Ponda Taluka. It is the most prominent among temples and is situated along the National Highway-4A about 23-km from Panaji. The Shri Mangueshi Temple attracts thousands of visitors every year and is gifted by the 'Welcome Gate', an elegant lamp tower, a 'Noubatkhana' overlooking the temple tank and the 'Agrashalas' on three sides. The structure of the Shri Mangueshi Temple dates from 1700's. The temple is dedicated to the Lord Shiva.

Lore has it that Parvati - the consort of Lord Shiva - came to Goa in search of Shiva who had disappeared from Kailasa following an altercation between them. Parvati beseeched Shiva to protect her in these terms: 'Trahi Mam Girisha' (protect me the Lord of mountains). 'Mam Girisha' subsequently became 'Mangirisha' or 'Manguesh'.

A gateway at the roadside leads to a paved path and courtyard. This courtyard leads to a water tank, overlooked by the white temple building, raised on a plinth. In the courtyard stands a seven-storey 'Deepmal' (tower for oil lamps). The floor of the Shri Mangueshi Temple is paved with marble, and bands of decorative tiles adorn the white walls. The sanctum houses a Shiva Lingam. A golden 'Shesha', the Linga and an image of Shiva constitute the main altar. When entering the complex, one finds our Hindu traditional gods and their accommodation according to Shastric injunctions. The deity is worshiped by both its citizens and tourists. Festivals and periodical devotional activities are conducted with great zeal.

Quick Facts:

Location: Mangueshi, Ponda Taluka, 23-km From Panaji, Goa
Deity: Lord Shiva
Main Attraction: A Lamp Tower, A Welcome Gate, A Noubatkhana & Agarshalas.

Last Updated on 4^th October 2010

Temples of Goa