Popular Temple
Shri Mangueshi Temple, Goa
Mangueshi, Priol, Ponda, Goa
One of Goa's largest and most visited temples, and the kuladeva shrine of the Saraswat Brahmins
At a glance
- Location
- Mangueshi, Priol, Ponda, Goa
- Presiding deity
- Lord Manguesh (a form of Shiva)
- Temple type
- Popular Temple
- Tradition
- Shaiva
- Nearest railway station
- Karmali railway station (~12 km); Madgaon (~26 km)
- Nearest airport
- Goa International Airport, Dabolim (~25 km); Mopa (~50 km)
- Best time to visit
- November to March. The annual Magh festival and Navratri are the main occasions.
History
The Shri Mangueshi temple is at Mangueshi in Priol, Ponda taluka, about 21 km from Panaji. By tradition the deity was moved from Kushasthali (Cortalim) to safer territory during Portuguese rule. Manguesh is held to be the kuladeva of the Saraswat Brahmins and of some other gotras.
Spiritual significance
The temple is an example of Goa's distinctive temple architecture, recognised above all by its white seven-storey lamp tower. It is among the largest and most visited temples in Goa. Since 2011 a dress code has applied for entry.
Plan your visit
Darshan timings
Open from morning to night, with the sanctum closed for part of the afternoon. The dress code applies at entry.
Timings change on festivals and special occasions. Confirm with the temple's official source before you travel.
Easily reached by road from both Panaji and Madgaon. The Shri Shantadurga and Shri Nagesh temples are close by, so the three are often seen together.
Continue your Shiva bhakti
Devotional texts for this deity, already on the site.