Sri Ramnath Temple in Bandora is a timeless spiritual landmark of Central Goa, which offers a meditative haven with a spiritual aura, exquisite architecture, and a tranquil serenity.
The temple’s presiding deity is Sri Ramnath, a form of Bhagvan Shiva. According to tradition, the deity was installed by Bhagvan Sri Ramachandra.
The temple follows the Panchayatana system of worship. Its principal deities are Sri Ramnath, Shanteri Devi, Kamakshi Devi, Sri Lakshmi Narayan, and Sri Siddhinath. Along with these deities, Betal and Kaal Bhairav are also worshiped.
The majestic temple is located in scenic Ramnathi village (Bandora), near Ponda in Central Goa.
Sthala Purana of Sri Ramnath Temple, Bandora
During Samudra Manthana, i.e., the churning of the ocean, Bhagvan Shiva consumed Halahala, the dangerous poison that came out during the churning of the ocean by devas and asuras. When he drank the poison, his throat turned blue and experienced severe burning sensations. To overcome this situation and soothe his throat, he recited the most sacred Rama Nama.
History of Sri Ramnath Temple, Bandora
The original deity of Sri Ramnath was worshipped at Loutolim but was later relocated to Bandora in the 16th century to escape Portuguese persecution and protect the deity from further destruction.
Architecture of Sri Ramnath Temple, Bandora
The entrance to the inner sanctum is particularly notable for its intricate silver repousse work, depicting various scenes from puranas, including devotees worshipping a Shiva linga and Bhagavan Vishnu reclining on the serpent Shesha with Goddess Lakshmi.
Another prominent feature is the five-tiered stone deepastambha situated in the courtyard, whose base is embellished with carvings of Hindu deities and revered saints.
The temple’s exterior combines traditional Goan-style sloping roofs covered with red tiles and a prominent central shikhara rising above the main shrine. Surrounding the complex are agrashalas, or pilgrim rest houses, which provide accommodation for devotees and visitors.
Festivals Celebrated at Sri Ramnath Temple, Bandora
Shivaratri: It is a popular annual celebration carried over six days that extends from Magha Krishna Dwadashi to Phalguna Shukla Paksha Dwitiya Tithi. The sacred murti of Ramnath is brought in the palanquin to Talli, and the priest performs traditional dance as a part of the ritual and then carries it back to the temple.
Navratri: It is a vibrant regional festival known as Makharotsav. During the festival time, a beautifully suspended makhar is suspended from the ceiling and acts as a swing. Makhar is a wooden carved frame, and it is beautifully illuminated with fresh flowers and other decoratives. Each night, the deity is enshrined inside the swing, and traditional folk instruments like the dhol, tasha, and ghumat are used, which increases the spiritual vibe of the place. During the festive season, the Makhar aarti takes place at 10:00 PM.
Diwali: During this festive season, the temple hosts a grand Zatra. Along with the main deity, Bhagavan Ramnath, other deities like Sri Lakshmi Narayan, Kamakshi Devi, and Shanteri Devi are also taken into procession by placing them on Vahanas or vehicles.
Darshan Timings of Sri Ramnath Temple, Bandora
Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Aarti Timings of Sri Ramnath Temple, Bandora
Mangala Aarti: 04:00 AM
Rudra Abhishekam: 05:30 AM
Bhog Aarti: 11:30 AM
Sapta Rishi Aarti: 04:00 PM
Sandhya Aarti: 07:00 PM
Shayan Aarti: 10:30 PM
Best Time to Visit
October to March is the best time to visit Sri Ramnath Temple in Bandivade, Goa.
Nearby Places to Visit
Sri Shantadurga Temple: It is a renowned temple dedicated to Sri Shantadurga Devi, known for its peaceful surroundings and distinctive Goan temple architecture. It is an important pilgrimage site in the Ponda region.
Sri Nageshi Temple: It is dedicated to Lord Shiva who is worshiped as Nageshi, this historic temple is known for its traditional architecture, serene atmosphere, and sacred water tank.
Sri Mahalaxmi Temple: It is a revered temple dedicated to Mahalaxmi Devi, featuring traditional Goan architectural elements and a spiritually tranquil setting.
Sri Mangeshi Temple: One of Goa’s best-known temples, dedicated to Lord Mangesh (Shiva), and distinguished by its elegant white structure and iconic deepastambha.
Farmagudi: It is a scenic hill area near Ponda, offering a pleasant natural setting and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Ponda Town: It is a major cultural and commercial centre in central Goa, known for its historic temples, local markets, and connection to the region’s heritage.
Kavlem Temples: It is a home to important temples and is regarded as a significant centre of religious and cultural heritage in Goa.
How to Reach Sri Ramnath Temple, Bandora
Ready to explore the oldest temple in Goa, Sri Ramnath Temple? Plan your spiritual journey today. Join Tirtha Yatra’s Goa Tour.
By Air: The nearest airport is Goa International Airport and Manohar International Airport.
By Railway: The nearest railway station is Vasco Da Gama Railway station and Margao railway station.
By Road: The city of Varanasi has excellent road transport system. It is major cities like Lucknow, Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Patna and many more.
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