Nestled in the serene village of Zambaulim, in South Goa’s Quepem Taluka, the Shri Damodar Temple is a spiritual retreat rich in history, culture, and devotion. Dedicated to Lord Damodar, a form of Lord Shiva, this temple is not just a sacred place of worship but a testament to the resilience of Goa’s Hindu communities during colonial times. Surrounded by lush greenery and situated on the banks of the Kushawati River, the temple attracts thousands of devotees and visitors seeking divine blessings, healing, and peace.
About the Temple
Shri Damodar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located on the banks of the Kushawati River in Zambaulim, near Quepem in South Goa. Dedicated to Lord Damodar, a form of Lord Shiva, this temple is an important religious site with historical, spiritual, and cultural significance.
The deity was moved here from Margao in the 16th century during Portuguese rule when Hindu temples were being demolished. The temple has become a symbol of spiritual continuity and cultural pride for Goans, particularly the Gaud Saraswat Brahmin community.
Temple Description and Speciality
Traditional Goan temple architecture with a serene riverside setting.
Healing waters of the Kushawati River are believed to cure skin ailments.
Famous for hosting the grand Shigmo Festival.
Home to vibrant rituals, abhishekams, and daily aartis.
Maintains centuries-old worship customs in a peaceful, natural environment.
Temple Address & Location
Shri Damodar Temple, Zambaulim, Quepem, South Goa – 403705, India
Coordinates: 15.2075° N, 74.0971° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
(May vary on festival days)
Temple Sevas
Daily pujas, abhishekams, and aartis.
Special poojas during Shigmo, Mahashivratri, and Kartik Poornima.
River worship and ritualistic bathing during festivals.
Travel Facilities
Good road connectivity via local buses and taxis.
Parking available near the temple.
Accessible from major towns like Margao, Quepem, and Curchorem.
Food Facilities
Prasadam distribution on major festival days.
Local food stalls and restaurants nearby.
Traditional Goan cuisine in nearby towns.
Stay Facilities
Budget hotels and lodges in Quepem and Margao (20 km away).
Guesthouses and dharamshalas near the temple for pilgrims.
Nearest Railway Station
Margao (Madgaon Junction) – Approx. 20 km from temple
Nearest Airport
Goa International Airport (Dabolim) – Approx. 45 km
Nearest Bus Station
Quepem Bus Stand – Approx. 7 km
Direct buses or shared jeeps from Margao and Curchorem
Bus Routes to Temple
Panaji → Margao → Quepem → Zambaulim
Margao → Quepem → Zambaulim
Train Routes to Temple
Travel to Madgaon Junction (Margao) via major Indian cities.
Local transport (bus/taxi) to Zambaulim.
Airways to Temple
Land at Goa International Airport (Dabolim).
Take a pre-booked taxi or local transport to the temple (approx. 1.5–2 hours).
Nearby Cities
Margao – 20 km
Panaji (Goa Capital) – 60 km
Curchorem – 12 km
Quepem – 7 km
Nearby Temples & Attractions
Shree Chandreshwar Bhutnath Temple
Shri Mallikarjun Temple, Canacona
Salaulim Dam – scenic with gardens and picnic area
Bubble Lake (Budbud Talli) – unique bubbling water spring
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary – nature lovers’ retreat
Palolem Beach, Cabo de Rama Fort, and more
Best Time to Visit
October to March – Best weather
March–April – For Shigmo Festival
February/March – For Mahashivratri
Temple Festivals
Shigmo Festival (March/April): Folk dances, procession, and rituals.
Mahashivratri: Night-long pooja and cultural programs.
Kartik Poornima: Ceremonial river bathing and offerings.
Local Shopping & Handicrafts
Cashew nuts, feni, and spices.
Handwoven sarees, shawls, and bamboo crafts.
Brass idols and Goan-style puja items.
Markets in Margao and Quepem for souvenirs.
The Shri Damodar Temple is more than just a sacred shrine—it's a vibrant blend of Goan spirituality, heritage, and cultural pride. From the spiritually purifying waters of the Kushawati River to the colorful celebrations of Shigmo, this temple offers an experience that resonates with both devotion and discovery.
Perfect for a quiet getaway or a spiritually enriching vacation, a visit to this temple provides not only blessings but also a deep connection to Goa’s lesser-known cultural legacy. Pair it with nearby sightseeing, local delicacies, and meaningful shopping, and you’ll walk away with a wholesome experience etched in memo.
