Mangeshi Temple – Introduction
The Mangeshi temple is located in Mangeshi village and is one of the richest and largest Hindu temples in the state. The temple is about 21 km from the state capital city and is located in North Goa. This temple is approximately 450 years old.
Mangeshi Temple is built in typical Goan architectural style, in which it has a water tank and stunning dome. It is a very auspicious Hindu pilgrimage and has a lot of spritual significance associated with it. There is an old story about the temple of Lord Shiva and Parvati due to which it got its name.
History and architecture
The history of Mangeshi Temple traces its roots to Kushasthali in Ratalim – a quaint village that was invaded by the Portuguese in 1543. Around 1560, when the Portuguese started conversion to Christians, the local people shifted the Mangesh Linga from its original site to Kush Sthali on the banks of the Agnashini River where it is currently located in the village of Atrunja Taluka.
Since Mangeshi Temple was shifted to this village, it had to be renovated twice. First during the reign of the Marathas and the second during the 1890s and most recently, in 1973, the last renovation was carried out when a golden kalash was specially installed at the top of the temple.
It is believed that the oldest structure was quite simple in its built, and architectural style. The present structure was built in a more favorable manner only during the Maratha rule. However, just after the construction of the structure, the area came under the hands of the Portuguese rulers.
Perfect time to visit Mangeshi Mandir
From mid-November to mid-February is the best time to visit Shri Mangeshi Temple. This time the weather is very enjoyable which is perfect for the tourist to and attract them to visit this place. The annual Magha Purnima festival is the favorite time for the devotees to visit this place.
Actually, on the day of Magh Purnima a chariot procession or a rath yatra is taken out. In this rath yatra deity is decked up in royal attire and taken around the village in a chariot. This attracts the large number of devotees and pilgrims to watch the rath yatra going on in the village.
Tourist Attraction near Mangeshi Temple
Deepstambh:- The wonderful seven-storied lamp tower and lampstand surrounded by beautiful water fountains in the temple premises is the main attraction of this temple. It is considered to be the oldest part of the temple.
Khandepar Cave Temple:- These are situated in Ponda Taluk on the banks of Kondapar River. These caves are believed to have been built around the 12th century and were discovered in the 1970s. Exploring these caves is a great option for any historians.
Cansaulim Beach:- This is probably one of the most amazing options if you want to have fun and relax.
Majorda Beach:- The overall aura of this beach is quite calm and serene. Due to this beach is known as one of the best place to spend quality time with your loved ones.
Also Read: Shaktipeeth Purnagiri Temple – History, story and how to reach
How to reach Mangeshi Temple
By Air- The nearest airport is located at Dabolim which is at a distance of 25-30 km from Panaji. It has a good international connectivity with other domestic flights as well.
By Road- The place has very good connectivity through roads. Apart from going through own vehicle you can also opt for bus service. The nearest bus stand is Kadamba Bus Stand located in Panaji.
By Train- The nearest railway station is located at Margao. This railway station, known as Madgaon and Vasco da Gama, is well connected to Mumbai and other cities of the country.
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