Sightseeing Places in Goa

Temple Attractions

Shri Mangesh Temple

The 18th century, Shri Mangesh Temple, lies on the north west of Ponda in Priol. Considered to be the most important temple in Goa, it belongs to the typical Goan Hindu temple style of architecture, which is a curious mix of the Hindu and Portuguese style. This picturesque little temple is built on a hilltop amidst sprawling farmlands. The temple has shrines of Parvati (consort of Shiva - Destroyer of the Universe) and Ganesha (the elephant-god of Prosperity and Wisdom). A beautiful seven-storeyed deepstambha (lamp tower), typical of Goan temple architecture, stands in the temple complex.

2km from the Shri Mangesh Temple, is the Mahalsa Narayani Temple. The Vishnu (Preserver of the Universe) Temple is known for the Garuda pillar (the half-man half-eagle vehicle of Vishnu), which stands on the back of a turtle with Garuda perched on top of it. The temple also has a deepstambha, and finely-carved columns depicting the ten incarnations of Vishnu.

Nagesh Temple

The Nagesh Temple is situated 4km west of Ponda. Nagesh or the 'God of Serpents' refers to Shiva (Destroyer of the Universe). The temple was built in 1413. The mandapa (an assembly hall, generally pillared, preceding the sanctum sanatorium) has woodcarvings that narrate stories from the Hindu epics - Ramayana and Mahabharata. The temple compound also houses a five-storeyed deepstambha. Not far from the Nagesh Temple, is located the Mahalakshmi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga (the Goddess of War). According to the date inscribed in Marathi on the temple, the monument could have been built in 1413.

Shantadurga Temple

Set amidst tranquill forests and hills, the Shantadurga Temple lies 3 km from Ponda in Queula. Shantadurga, one of the consorts of Shiva, is a form of Durga (the Goddess of War) and the Goddess of Peace. Legend has it that once, the Destroyer and the Preserver had a mammoth fight that plunged the entire universe into chaos. Shantadurga stepped in as the arbitrator and succeeded in reconciling the warring parties, thus saving the universe from eternal doom. The temple makes a preferred holiday pilgrimage center for the devotees thronging from far and wide. Hence she stands in the temple shrine in between Shiva and Vishnu (Preserver of the Universe) as a symbol of peace.

The Shantadurga Temple was built in 1738, and is the biggest temple in Goa. A distinctive six-storeyed deepstambha and ratha (chariot) with some gilt work adorn the temple grounds. It is interesting to note that amongst some other features of the temple, the dome shows a definite influence of church architecture.

Panajim

Called Panjim by the Portuguese, Panaji is the state capital of Goa. Unlike many capital cities, Panaji has a distinct unhurried character. It is situated on the southern banks of the Mandovi River, which makes this town all the more charming. Typical of a Goan town, Panaji is built around a church facing a prominent square.

The town has some beautiful Portuguese Baroque style buildings and enchanting old villas. The riverside, speckled with brightly whitewashed houses with wrought iron balconies, offers a fine view. Trudge around town in the cobbled alleys to see quaint old taverns and cafés with some atmosphere, and practically no tourists.These are a good places to travel and meet the local people.

The Safa Mosque

Adil Shah constructed the Safa Mosque in 1560. The architectural style of the mosque is predominantly Goan, with the exception of the arches that indicate a distinct Bijapuri influence (for more information on the Bijapuri Style of architecture, see Bijapur). The mosque has a beautiful backdrop of wooded low hills that rise in the background.

The Main Attractions

The Largo da Igreja Church Square is a fine illustration of the awesome Portuguese Baroque style. The Church of the Immaculate Conception is easily one of the most elegant and picturesque monuments in Goa. Built in 1541 a.d., atop a high, symmetrical, crisscrossing stairway, the church is a white edifice topped with a huge bell that stands in between two delicate Baroque style towers. David Gentleman, the well known illustrator says " I drew outside it as evening mass went on within: the music (harmonium and violins) that drifted out was a pretty blend of Indian and European, the congregation as docile and contented as my daughters once seemed as snowflakes in their school nativity play".

Trave to riverside, there one come across some fine government buildings, passport office situated along the riverside boulevard in Panaji. is s In the 16th century, the edifice was the palace of Adil Shah (the Sultan of Bijapur). The Portuguese took over the palace and constructed the Viceregal Lodge in 1615. In 1843, the structure became the Secretariat, and today it is the Passport office. The Braganza Institute, houses the tiled frieze which depicts the 'mythical' representation of the colonisation of Goa by the Portuguese. Fountainahas is a lovely old residential area amidst shady cobbled streets connecting red-tile-roofed houses with overhanging balconies, much like a country town in Spain or Portugal.

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Water Sports In Goa

Water Sports in Goa Diving, Windsurfing, Yachting, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling. Those visiting Goa will find ample opportunity to indulge in all kinds of water sports. However, serious water freaks should head for the sparkling blue (and strictly preserved) waters of the Andaman and Lakshwadeep Islands.