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Sri Manguesh Temple, Ponda

November 12, 2026  By sneha 
Sri Manguesh Temple, located in Ponda region of Goa, is one of the most celebrated Shiva Temples and stands as an immemorial symbol of Goa’s vibrant cultural and spiritual heritage.

One of the largest Shiva temples in Goa, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshiped as Bhagwan Manguesh. Huge number of devotees visit this temple to have the darshan of Lord Manguesh.

This hillock temple is nestled in the serene village of Mangeshi, Mardol, Priol, Ponda Taluka, Goa, Bharat.

This majestic temple is the oldest temple in the region, dating back approximately 450 years. It is considered as the Kula devata for Saraswat Brahmins and other communities.
Sri Manguesh Temple, Ponda

Musical Legacy

Sri Mangueshi Temple has a rich musical legacy. Lord Manguesh is considered the Kuladevata of the Mangeshkar family, one of India’s most celebrated musical families. India’s famous singer Lata Mangeshkar hails from this family.

Her father Deenanath changed his surname from Hardikar/Abhisheki to Mangeshkar before shifting to Maharashtra. Since he was born in Mangeshi village, to honour his ancestral roots, he changed his surname.

Sthala Purana of Sri Mangueshi Temple

According to the Sthala Purana of Sri Mangueshi Temple, it is associated with Lord Shiva assumed the form of a tiger to frighten Parvati Devi in the ancient village of Kushasthali, now known as Cortalim in Goa.

Once Lord Shiva and Parvati Devi were playing the game of dice at Kailasha, the sacred abode of Lord Shiva. During the game, Parvati Devi defeated Lord Shiva. Hence, Lord Shiva left Kailasha and settled in the dense forest of Kushasthali.

Later Parvati Devi left Kailasha and came in looking for Lord Shiva. When wandering through the thick dense forest, Lord Shiva disguised as tiger and attacked her. Frightened Goddess Parvati, shouted loudly, “Trahi Mam Girisha!”, meaning “Save me, Oh Lord of Mountains!” Lord Shiva then resumed his original form. As time passed, the expression “Mam Girisha” eventually evolved into the name “Manguesh.”

History of Sri Mangueshi Temple

The temple was originally located at Kushasthali, present day Cortalim, on the banks of the River Zuari. When Portuguese invaded Goa and forced religious conversion, the devotees secretly moved the Shiva Linga from Kushasthali to Priol in 1560 to safeguard it against attack.

The temple was later rebuilt and expanded during the 18th century, with the Peshwas traditionally associated with its development. Today, the temple stands as an important symbol of Goa’s enduring Shaiva heritage and devotion.

Architecture of Sri Mangueshi Temple

Sri Mangueshi Temple at Priol is a classic example of traditional Goan temple architecture. This temple is built with distinctive features adapted to the local climate, heavy monsoon and cultural traditions. The present structure was developed and expanded by the Marathas.

Garbhagriha is located at the center of the temple, where Lord Manguesh is worshiped. There is Sabha Mantap, in front of the garbhagriha. This pillared hall is the place of gathering for devotees to perform prayers and religious activities.

There is a temple tank nearby, where waters are used for religious purpose. This contribute to the serene and beautiful atmosphere of the temple complex.
Sri Manguesh Temple, Ponda

Festivals Celebrated at Sri Mangueshi Temple

Magha Purnima Festival: This is an annual festival celebrated in Magha masa (February-March), that begins on Magha Shukla Sapthami and ends on Magha Purnima. This is the annual Jatra Mahotsava celebrated with much grandeur, devotion and faith. The festival reaches its peak on the ninth day, where grand Maha Ratha is pulled by devotees around the temple.

Mahashivaratri: This is the grandest festival celebrated at Sri Mangueshi Temple, observed on Magha Chaturdashi. Large number of devotees observe Jaagran and chant Om Namah Shivaya. The temple is adorned by lighting seven-story Deepstambha and temple complex.

Timings of Mangueshi Temple

Timings: 05:30 AM to 09:30 PM

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mangueshi Temple in Goa is from November to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Late February is also an ideal time to visit, as the temple celebrates festivals like Magha Purnima, Ratha Yatra, and Maha Shivaratri.

Nearby Places to Visit Manguesh Temple

Sri Mangueshi Temple, located at Priol in the Ponda region of Goa, is a well-known historical place, attracting devotees and tourists alike from all over the world.

Sri Mahalasa Narayani Temple: It is located in the Mardol region of Goa. It is an important temple dedicated to the worship of Goddess Mahalasa. It is located about 2 km from Mangueshi Temple.

Sri Nageshi Temple: It is a historic temple in the Bandora region, dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshiped as Lord Nageshi.

Sri Shantadurga Temple: It is a famous temple dedicated to Goddess Shantadurga, located in Kavlem. It is one of the important pilgrimage sites in the Ponda region.

Sri Mahalaxmi Saunsthan: It is a famous temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi in Bandora region in Goa.

Laxmi Narasimha Temple: It is a famous temple situated nearby the Veling area dedicated to Lord Narasimha.

How to Reach Manguesh Temple

Ready to explore the Sri Mangueshi Temple in Ponda? Plan your spiritual journey today. Join Tirtha Yatra’s Goa Tour.
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By Air: The nearest airport is Dabolim airport, about 37 km away. Another nearest airport is Manohar International Airport, roughly 45 km away. From these airports, bus, taxi or car services are readily available to reach the temple.

By Railway: Karmali Railway Station (20 km) and Madgaon or Margao Junction (25-26 km) are the nearest railway stations to reach temple. From here, many taxi and bus service are readily available.

By Road: Frequent government and private buses operate between Ponda and nearby places such as Panaji, Mardol, Old Goa, Margao, and Vasco da Gama.

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