Around Ponda Important information

Tourist Acctration in Around Ponda

• Shri Shantadurga Temple, Kavlem
• Shri  Mahalaxmi Temple, Bandode
• Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Velinga
• Shri Mahalsa Temple, Mardol
• Shri Manguesh Mandir
• Keri
• Bondla Sanctuary
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls

Shri Shantadurga Temple, Kavlem (3 kms.)

This largest and most popular temple of Goa was built in 1713 and dedicated to Shantadurga, a manifestation of Parvati or Durga. According to mythological legends, once Lord Vishnu and Shiva were engaged in a fierce battle. At the insistence of Lord Brahma, the Goddess Jagadamba appeared and calmed the fiery combatants. Thus, the Goddess came to be known as Shantadurga or peace-maker.

The beautiful pagoda like temple is peculiar to Goa, as it is Neo-Classical in design with distinct influence of European architecture. In front of the entrance is the six storeyed deepmal or Lamp Tower. Marble has been used extensively in the interiors of the temple fine chandeliers add to the beauty of the shrine. A pair of dwarpals (guardian deities) embossed on the silver screen flank the Garbhakuda or the holy of holies, where an 'repressive idol of Shantadurga stands between the images of Vishnu and Shiva.

Shri  Mahalaxmi Temple, Bandode (4 kms.)

It is considered to be the abode of the original oddess of the Shakti cult. The stone plaques lund in the temple indicate that the shrine has jen in existence since 1413. The temple was ;built in 1913, but the old outline and the chitectural style was retained. The unique nage of Mahalakshmi has a representation of nga on her head and it is considered a peaceful r Satvih form of the Goddess.

Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Velinga (5 kms.)

It is one of the most picturesque temples located aound Ponda. The idol of presiding deity, akshmi-Narasimha devta was brought here 'OmSalceteinl567. Shri Manguesh Temple

Shri Mahalsa Temple, Mardol (7 kms.)

It lies just 1 kms. south of Mangueshi temple along the Panaji - Ponda road and is edicated to Mohini, a female attribute of Lord Vishnu. The beautiful temple was Dnstructed in 1567 and a seven storeyed deepmal or lamp tower in the courtyard and a 2.5 metres high dipa stamba or oil lamp, made of five metal (panchalayi). This dip stambha is considered to be the largest of its kind in the world and symbolises the lythological churning of sea.

Shri Manguesh Mandir (7.5 kms.)

he temple dedicated to Shri Manguesh, a manifestation of Lord Shiva, is one of the lost important Hindu shrines in Goa. The present shrine situated on the side of a hill was uilt in 1565 and enlarged in the mid -18th century. Its architecture reflects typical Goan tyle, with Christian and Muslim influences. The courtyard has a 7-storeyed deepdaan r Lamp Tower, which is undoubtedly, the most impressive in Goa. The majestic white wer at the entrance is a special feature of Hindu temples in Goa. The interior is luminated with graceful chandeliers, which is quite unlike Hindu temples and gives a hurch like appearance. The Manguesh linga is placed in the main silver sanctum, lanked by a solid gold idol and is illuminated by oil lamps. There are also shrines edicated to Lakshmi Narayan, Satiri and Mulkeshwar behind the main temple.

Keri (8kms.)

This typical Goan village is endowed with exceptional scenic beauty and has a rich eritage in Ayurveda, Indian classical music as well as cottage industries. The Vaidya family, has been practicing the Ayurveda for generations.

The Parvati Madhav Plants Park, Arya Cashew Products Factory, Laterite Stone Mines and Sri Vijayadurga Temple are worth visiting sites.

Bondla Sanctuary (20 kms.)

This small sanctuary covers an area of 8 sq. kms in the lush foothills of Western Ghats. It is a major attraction for nature lovers as well as children. There is also a Mini Zoo, Deer safari Park, Gardens, Botanical Gardens and Eco-Tourism Cottages.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls : The fabulous falls to the   south-east   of Molem   lie   within   the Bhagwan Mahavir  Sanctuary  and are  the second highest falls in the country. A tributary of  the   Mandovi   river   plunges   down majestically from a height of 603 m and creates a foaming torrent that splits into three streams, which cascades down a near-vertical cliff face into a deep green pool full of lush foliage. The best time to visit the falls is just after the monsoons, from Oct. to mid - Dec.

The Devil's Canyon at the base of the falls, is a very charming spot with a deep pool formed between the steep-sided rocks. It is also an excellent site to view wildlife. he best way to visit the falls is by the train from Vasco to Londa. It stops at Dudhsagar station, from where you can walk back down the line through a small path which leads to he falls. The train stops at the Collem railhead, to pick up passengers for the trip to the vaterfalls. The railway line from Vasco to Londa crosses the mountainside and one can mjoy great view of the falls from the window of the train.