Shri Devaki Krishna Temple — Attraction in Goa

I recently had the privilege of visiting Sri Devaki Krishna Mandir, located on the serene Chorao Island in Goa. This sacred temple is a hidden gem that offers a truly spiritual and tranquil experience amidst the natural beauty of the island.

Sri Devaki Krishna Mandir holds a significant place in Goan culture and spirituality. It is the only temple in the world where Lord Krishna is worshiped with Mata Devaki, his biological mother. As soon as I entered the temple premises, I was enveloped by a sense of peace and serenity. The architecture of the temple is stunning, reflecting traditional Goan style with its intricate carvings and vibrant colors. The sanctum sanctorum, where the deity is housed, emanates a divine aura that is both captivating and comforting.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Devaki, and their presence can be felt throughout the temple complex. The devotion and reverence of the temple priests and staff are truly admirable. They provide insightful information about the temple's history, rituals, and significance, enriching the spiritual experience for visitors.

The lush surroundings of Chorao Island add to the enchanting atmosphere of the temple. The island's verdant landscape, dotted with coconut palms and swaying trees, creates a peaceful ambiance that perfectly complements the temple's spiritual essence. A walk around the temple complex allows for quiet contemplation and a chance to connect with nature.

One of the highlights of my visit was witnessing the traditional aarti ceremony. The melodic chants, rhythmic drum beats, and the mesmerizing sight of the deity adorned with flowers and lights created a truly magical experience. It was a moment of devotion and gratitude that will remain etched...

Here is found India’s only temple where the presiding Deity is Sri Devaki-Krishna, which is Sri Krsna and His mother together in Deity form. Sri Sri Devaki and Krsna are together in the temple by Bhumika Devi, Laxmi Ravalnath, Mallinath, Katyayani, Chodaneshwar and Dhada Shankar. Like many of the regions transcendental personalities, the Devaki-Krsna Deities were subjected to displacement due to foreign invasion. Originally located at Chorao Island in Tiswadi, all the temple Deities were moved to Mayem in Bicholim to escape the wrath of the Portuguese rulers. Eventually they were established at the present location at Marcel. The Devaki-Krsna Deity is the main feature of the garbha griha, or inner sanctum of the temple. Mother Devaki is depicted in a standing posture with child Krsna between her legs. Beautifully carved in black stone, the pose of the Deities is also very unique. Also known as Pisso Ravalnath, the Devaki-Krsna temple is also home to a life-sized murti of Sri Swamy Ravalnath, which was installed in 1974 by Sri Srinivasa Prabhu, the oracle of the temple. In a separate temple a life-sized stone Deity of Sri Devaki holding the baby Krishna has been installed and it was consecrated by HH Srimad Sudheendra Thirtha Swamiji in 1981. The oracle is organised every full moon day. These Deities were carved by the famous sculptor, Renjal Gopal Krishna Shenoy. More than 15 other Hindu temples of note are found in the small town of Marcel, including Sri Kamakshi temple, Sri Mahalakshmi temple, Sri Manguesh temple, Sri Saptakoteshwara temple, Sri Shantadurga temple at Kavalem, and the Sri...

This place is very unique from mythological perspective as it is one of the rare Hindu temple devoted to Devaki (the biological mother of Krishna) and Krishna. Most other temples are Radha Krishna. The original temple was destroyed during the attacks by Adil Shah and rebuilt by the Portuguese. This was a part of the Charao island tour that I did with Soultravelers operators (through Viator). Our guide Eric gave us some insight about the historical perspective of this place and also how island "Churamani" became "Churan" and then "Chorao" under the...