As much as Goa is cherished as a party and beach destination, there is another facet of this tropical state that often goes unnoticed. It is home to some of the most important temples and churches, prominent for both Hindu and Christian communities. In this blog, we will look at the top temples and churches in North Goa, their inception, and what makes them remarkably valuable in Goa’s diverse cultural and religious fabric.
1. Shri Dev Bodgeshwar Temple
The Shri Bodgeshwar Temple is located around 12 kilometres from Panaji, close to Mapusa. The setting of the Shri Bodgeshwar Temple is incredibly attractive, and it is surrounded by thick greenery, which draws a lot of devotees and visitors. Locals refer to Lord Bodgeshwar as the Guardian of Mapusa and believe it is he who keeps Mapusa and its people safe. At the Shree Dev Bodgeshwar Temple, the festival honouring the god Kanakeshwar Baba is often held in December or January. During the celebration, there is an annual fair called “Zatra,” which draws large crowds of visitors and residents alike.
Address: Calangute – Mapusa Road, Mapusa, Goa
Timings: 7:30 AM to 9:30 PM
2. Maruti Temple, Panjim
Located on Altinho Hill, overlooking Fontainhas district in Panjim, Maruti Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is one of the most famous temples in Goa and is visited by a large number of devotees, especially during special occasions such as Hanuman Jayanati. There is a beautiful stream that flows beside the temple, making the surroundings extremely soothing and calm. The temple looks ethereal once it is all illuminated at night. To reach the temple, you can take the staircase from the foot of Altino Hill. Inside the temple, you will find two idols of Shri Hanumanji, one in white marble and the other in black marble. You can make your offering to the Lord and seek his blessings.
Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:30 PM
3. Mahalaxmi Temple, Panjim
Mahalaxmi Temple is one of the most important temples in Goa for the Hindu community. Built in 1818, the temple is located on the Dr. Dada Vaidya Road in Panjim and is dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth. The deity sitting inside the temple is considered to be a serene form of the goddess Laxmi and is crafted from black stones with four arms. Today, this temple is one of the most prominent religious sites in Goa and one of the major tourist attractions for people visiting Goa. Flowers and other offerings for puja are also available near the temple premises in small stalls.
Timings: Everyday from 6:00 am to 8:30 pm
4. Bom Jesus Basilica
The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church, located in Goa, is one of the oldest churches in India and is known for its exemplary baroque architecture. Don’t let the simple and solemn exterior of this church make you think that it is not worth visiting. Once you step inside, you will see the floor is made of marble, laden with precious stones and an elaborate gilded altar. The rest of the interior of the church is simple. The main altar features a large statue of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). The church also houses the well-preserved body of St. Francis Xavier in a well-decorated casket, which is taken out every once in 10 years for display.
Timings: Monday to Saturday from 9.00am to 6.30pm
Sundays – 10:30 am to 6:30 pm
5. St Michael’s Church
Located near Anjuna Beach, St. Michael’s Church is a historic Roman Catholic church and is regarded as one of the oldest churches in Goa. This church was established by the Jesuit missionaries in 1603 and remodelled again in 1717 based on the Se Cathedral of Old Goa. The Portuguese style of architecture is the primary attraction of this church. On September 29, the church honours St. Miguel’s by celebrating a feast day. During the massive celebration of St. Michael’s feast, a lot of tourists come to St. Michael’s Church.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM on all days.
6. Chapel of St. Sebastian
The Chapel of St. Sebastian is one of the important churches in Goa and a religious site in Goa. Built in 1818, this church is dedicated to the miraculous St. Michael, who cured people’s diseases suffering from plague through his medications and interventions. The church features an eye-catching crucifix, which was originally located in the Palace of Inquisition in Old Goa. One can witness that Christ’s eyes on the crucifix are open to punish the wrongdoers and troublemakers and reward the good-hearted people. The locals around the church host a lively annual street feast in mid-November to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament.
Opening Hours:
9:30 AM – 1 PM
4:30 PM – 6 PM on all days.
7. Our Lady of Good Hope Church, Candoilm
Our Lady of Good Hope Church, popularly called the Candolim Church, is a popular religious site in North Goa, overlooking the Nerul River. Rebuilt in the 16th century, the facade of the church is coloured in pristine white hues with Mannerist architecture. The two towers on either side of the church are awe-inspiring to look at. Once you step inside the church, you will witness the beautiful altars, with walls inside the church installed with blue tiles. There is a sense of serenity and peace that one would feel inside church premises. Many people come here to seek tranquillity from the hustle and bustle of Candolim. You can click photos outside of the church; however, photography inside the church is prohibited. Make sure to dress modestly and not disturb other worshippers.
Opening Hours:
Daily Mass: 7am (Monday to Saturday)
Sunday mass: 6:30am, 8:15am, 9:30am
8. Three Kings Chapel
Perched atop Cuelim Hill, the Three Kings Chapel is a solitary church believed to be haunted. According to urban legend, there were three kings who governed the church. In quest of becoming the most powerful and sole retainer of power, they fought and killed each other. Later, they were buried at the same site and it is believed that their spirits still haunt this place to provide protection. Apart from the church and beautiful nature which surrounds the place, there is nothing much to see. However, if you wish to visit the place, take a camera and visit during the day time.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Address: 8C, Muder, Cansaulim, Goa 403712
Wrap Up
The religious sites in Goa are as beautiful as they are diverse. Different communities in Goa, irrespective of their cultural or religious background, live in peace and harmony. If you too wish to be a part of Goa’s diverse and cosmopolitan culture, secure a second home here with Veera Developers Group. Check out our latest villas in Goa, such as Veera Eminence, built for those who desire luxury and opulence.