Shri Kamakshi Temple — Attraction in Goa

Nestled in the heart of the vibrant state of Goa, amidst the lush greenery and serene surroundings, lies the Kamakshi Temple, a sacred abode of divinity and tranquility. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a form of the supreme Goddess Parvati, this temple stands as a symbol of devotion and spirituality, drawing devotees and visitors from far and wide.

Historical Significance: The history of the Kamakshi Temple dates back centuries, steeped in mythological tales and religious lore. While exact origins are unclear, the temple is believed to have been established during the medieval period by the Shankaracharya of Shringeri, a revered Hindu saint and philosopher. Over time, the temple underwent renovations and expansions, evolving into the magnificent architectural marvel it is today.

Architectural Marvel: The Kamakshi Temple showcases exemplary Dravidian architecture, characterized by its towering gopuram (entrance tower), intricate carvings, and vibrant colors. The temple complex is adorned with ornate pillars, intricately carved ceilings, and sanctum sanctorum housing the divine idol of Goddess Kamakshi. The serene ambiance and spiritual aura of the temple captivate the senses, offering solace and peace to all who step foot within its sacred premises.

Religious Significance: Goddess Kamakshi is revered as the divine embodiment of love, compassion, and wisdom. Devotees flock to the temple to seek her blessings for prosperity, happiness, and fulfillment of desires. The temple hosts various rituals, pujas, and festivals throughout the year, including Navaratri, when the entire temple comes alive with fervent devotion and celebration.

Cultural Heritage: Beyond its religious significance, the Kamakshi Temple holds immense cultural importance in the region. It serves as a center for spiritual learning, hosting discourses, bhajans, and cultural events that promote harmony and unity among people of diverse backgrounds.

Visitor Experience: For visitors, a visit to the Kamakshi Temple is not just a religious pilgrimage but also an enriching cultural experience. The tranquil surroundings, majestic architecture, and devout atmosphere create a sense of peace and serenity, allowing one to connect with their inner self and experience a moment of transcendence.

In essence, the Kamakshi Temple in Goa stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. It beckons seekers of truth and devotees alike, offering them a sanctuary of divine grace and spiritual solace amidst the hustle and bustle of...

The Kamakshi temple is dedicated to Kamakshi or Goddess Kamakhya, originally a deity from Guwahati, Assam. She is also known as Parvati or consort of Lord Shiva and is known as Shantadurga or Goddess of Peace. The temple is quite impressive and is located in Shiroda which is situated 12 kms away from the village of Kavlem in Ponda taluka.

The original temple of the deity was in Raia in Salcete Taluka which was destroyed during the missionary activities and the idol of Kamakshi was carried away to Shiroda where it is now situated. The temples of Raia are in close proximity with each other justified by the images of Lakshminarayan and the linga of Rayeshwar coming from 2 different temples in Raia itself.

Besides being a peace goddess, Kamakshi or Shantadurga is also quite violent when it comes to destruction of evil. The image of Mahishasurmardini form of the goddess is worshipped here.

The overall setting of the Kamakshi temple is quite congested although the main tower design is quite marvelous with the roof bearing stark resemblance to that of a Buddhist pagoda. It has hooded serpent images projecting from the corners of the pagoda roof while there are elephant statuettes kneeling at the corners of the square base on which rests the main tower. A golden finial rises from the center of the pagoda roof.

The vicinity of the Kamakshi temple has another small temple as is observed in most of the Goan Hindu temples, a shrine dedicated to Lord Rayeshwara or Shiva and the place where the temple is built has an ancient name "Shivagram". Also within the temple, there are shrines dedicated to Lord Hanuman and Dattatreya. Images of Kalbhairava and Betal are also found on the left and right of the silver screen leading to the sanctuary which has the goddess on her pedestal.

People of all faiths from all over Goa venerate and worship the Kamakshi Goddess who is believed to shower immense blessings on her devotees and fulfill desired wishes. Jai sree kamakshi devi ji...

Shree Kamakshi Saunsthan Temple at Shiroda, Goa has the main temple of Shri Kamakshi Devi who is a form of goddess Adi shakti. There is another temple where presiding deities are Shri Laxmi Narayan, Shri Rayeshwar and Shri Shanta Durga. The temple also has three main ganas of Shri Betal, Shri Kalbhairav, Shri Gram Purush. The temple precinct is very clean and the green surroundings of flora & fauna gives you a feeling of calmness. Shri Kamakshi Devi is Kuladevi (family goddess) to Kamath, Kini, Balgi, Pai family. The temple opens in morning at 5:30 am with Nirmal pooja (morning)) followed by darshan for all devotees throughout the day. Devotees wishing to offer abhishek seva need to provide all the abhishek pooja ingredients available at precincts stalls by 8am in Shri Rayeshwar temple. The afternoon pooja happens at 12pm and evening pooja is held at 8:30pm. All major festivals & events as per Hindu lunar calendar are celebrated in traditional way with lots of pomp with devotees participating in huge numbers from all across the country. Every month on Chaturdashi (previous day of New moon day) there is palki utsav of Shri Rayeshwar temple. On Amavasya (New moon day) there is a big palki utsav festival with thousands of devotees paying visit for darshan of goddess Shri Kamakshi as it is considered very auspicious. It is said having darshan for 5 consecutive months on Amavasya day is very lucky and fulfills all your wishes. On Amavasya day due to huge rush there are special queue arrangements made for darshan. Devotees get free lunch (samradhan) prasad after afternoon 12pm pooja. Other main festivals are Navaratri and MahaShivratri Jatraotsav. The temple trust managing committee have made good arrangements for lodging in temple premises for Devotees coming from outstation. Temple trust also has a good website which gives details of all events calendar and a live video streaming...