Shri Shantadurga, Kavlem

         This temple is the largest and most popular temple in Goa.

It was built in 1713 and dedicated to the "Goddess ShantaDurga".

According to a legend, Lord vishnu and shiva were engaged in a fierce battle. At the insistence of Lord Brahma, the Goddess Jagdamba appeared and calmed the fiery combatants.
Thus, the Goddess came to be known as Shantadurga ( peace-maker).

The beautifully constructed pagoda like temple has a distinct influence of European architecture. In front of the entrance is the six storeyed Lamp Tower ( deepmal ). Marble is used in the interiors of the temple while magnificent chandeliers add to the beauty of the shrine.

A pair of dwarpals (guardian deities) embossed on the silver screen flank the Gabhara (Sanctum), where an impressive idol of Shantadurga stands between the images of Vishnu and Shiva. An imposing dome crowns the main area, which was built in 1738, by the Maratha Ruler Shahu Raja.

After worshipping at the main sanctum the devotees visit the subsidiary shrine where the Goddess Shantadurga sleeps.

The annual Jatra festival of the temple is celebrated in the month of February.

The temple has agrashalas, which provide lodging facilities to the devotees.

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