The land of Gods Goa beyond beaches

Hello, travelers from around the world, friends, and community. During my travels in Europe, I've had the opportunity to visit many wonderful and beautiful churches that showcase impressive architecture, history, tradition, and culture. Today, I am exploring a place known as God's Land—Goa a small state popular as a tourist attraction. because of beaches, bars, and churches.BBC But this perception is superficial,
beyond that, the hindu heart lives in the center of Goa.
The real Goa has, colors, ancient customs and traditions, attires, cuisines, festivals, history, and heritage. the Golden Age of the region under the Kadamba dynasty,
Before the Portuguese arrived, Goa was known as Gomantak Bhumi. Here, you can see many Hindu temples, each reflecting different architectural styles, cultures, and traditions. Historical evidence shows that after Vasco da Gama landed in Goa, the region began to experience a significant cultural shift. The Portuguese came to establish their business but gradually took control of the area. mass conversions, destruction of temples, and gory details of the Goa Inquisition under the Portuguese, They started converting Hindus, destroying their temples, and building churches in their place.

During this time, many Hindus hid their deities in safe locations. After the Portuguese left Goa, these communities rebuilt their temples. Most of these temples are located in central Goa, known as Antruj-Mahal, where the incarnations of Shiva and Shakti can be found in various forms names, and places.
Though temple construction in Goa started with bricks, mud mortar, and brickbats, stones like laterite, basalt, schist, and granite were also extensively used for making icons, doors, lintels, columns, and ceilings. Wood was used extensively to sculpt excellent temple art.
I grew up here and used to visit often all the temples several times. I never took photos of temples. But today in this post I would like to explore a few temples. some places are forbidden for photos and some places we do not expose and disturb the spiritual boundaries.
Goa has two international airports one in the North and one in the South. both ways are convenient for exploring Goa. Hiring taxis or renting a car or bike are often options to go around.

We were driving from Ponda town It was Sunday afternoon so the roads were not busy.

Shree Kapileshwar Temple is located 4 kilometers from Ponda town. This revered Shiva temple is known for its serene atmosphere, ancient architecture, and spiritual significance, attracting devotees who seek peace and divine blessings.

Built in the 18th century, the temple features a relatively simple design. Its characteristic red laterite-rock construction is exposed, enhancing its rustic charm. The mandapa boasts an elegant gable-style roof, while the garbagriha, or sanctum, is housed within a beautifully dome-shaped structure.

A small altar with Tulsi or holy basil adorns the courtyard.

A small lake beside the courtyard.

Inside the temple the wooden ceiling.

Festive palanquin or chariot

For rituals the priests use water from this well inside the temple.

clean holy well.

After experiencing positive vibes and spiritual peace we don't want to leave that place. We spent a good time relaxing and filled ourselves with enough spiritual energy so we moved further to Kavale Shree Shantadurga Devsthan/Goddess Shaki's Incarnation. Around 2 kilometers away.

There were road works in progress.

temple is visible from the road.

Entrance

Holy lake

Lamp tower

It was a special noon-time ritual. This temple is full of energy Immediately you can feel it. after spending some time we went to Ramanati, another name and place for Shiva.

The tower was being painted.

Bhakt nivas here visitors have the opportunity to sleep overnight

From Ramnathi A Mahalaxmi temple is located 2 km farther down the road.

And then Nageshi

All these temples are located in a small special area little disturbed by Portuguese colonial influence. the distance from one amazing temple to the next is just 1.5 - 2 kilometers.
Thank you.

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