Sri Shantadurga temple is located at Kavlem in Ponda Taluka, Goa. The temple is approximately 33 Kms away from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. It is considered as one of the most important and biggest temple in Goa. This beautiful temple is set amidst betel palms and is also known as the Santeri temple.

The temple is dedicated to Shree Shanta Durga, the Hindu goddess who mediates between Vishnu and Shiva for bringing peace. It enshrines a beautiful idol of Goddess Shree Shanta Durga with a six inch color Shivalinga adjacent to it. The temple has a rich and beautiful Garbhakuda where the idol is kept. The temple was built in 1738 during the reign of Maratha king Shahu Raje of Satar at the request of Naro Ram Mantri. It is one of the main attractions of Goa that attracts devotees from far and near.

The Shivalinga at the temple is considered as belonging to the Mahajans of the surname Vorde who are Kulavis of the Shri Manguesha temple. The deity of Shanta Durga in Sri Shantadurga temple is holding two serpents one in each hand representing Vishnu and Shiva. During the abhishek of Goddess Shanta Durga, the shivling which is kept adjacent to her also gets the honor. The temple is surrounded with stunning scenic beauty. The atmosphere and climate around the temple is very healthy

The architectural structure of Shri Shantadurga temple is beautiful. The Nayanmanohar Deepa stambha is a main attraction of the temple. The lake in front of Nayanmanohar Deepa Stambha provides an added attraction to the temple. The Nagarkhana, at the entrance of the temple is for musical purpose. The dome of the temple is very unique and is considered as one of the best among the other temple.

The walls of Shri Shantadurga temple are one the main attractions of the temple. As it is an ancient temple therefore all the walls of the temple were completed recently. The temple has many Agrashalas and halls that have all the modern amenities. Here devotees coming from far can stay during their visit to the temple.

How to Reach

Panaji is 33 Kms away from Sri Shantadurga temple. You can take taxi or motor bike on rent from Panaji to reach this temple. Buses ply regularly between Panaji and Ponda Taluka.