Ponda

Shantadurga Temple

Housing an impressive idol of Goddess Durga, Shri Shantadurga Temple is unique in terms of environment, architecture and space. Once a small laterite mud shrine, Shantadurga Temple is now a spacious and grand temple complex attracting hundreds and thousands of devotees every year. The name of the temple comes from a strong religious belief that Shree Durga mediated between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu to stop the violent war between the two. Hence, this avatar of Goddess Durga which emerged to derive peace between Lord Shiva and Vishnu came to be known as Shree Shantadurga Temple. The architecture of the temple is inspired by Indo-Portuguese style. The temple has an eye-catching idol of Goddess Durga in calm and serenemood.Theidol of this beautiful templeholds two serpents, which symbolizes Vishnu and Shiva. Visitors to this temple can also explore nearby attractions like Mahalaxmi Temple, Fountain of Phoenix, St. Sebastian Chapel, Dona Paula Beach, Miramar Beach and many more.