The serene village of Mardol in Ponda, Goa, the Shri Mahalsa Narayani Temple is a spiritual gem renowned for its devotion, history, and architectural beauty. Dedicated to Goddess Mahalsa, the temple is revered as the abode of Lord Vishnu’s Mohini avatar the divine enchantress. With its towering Deepastambha (lamp tower), divine aura, and vibrant festivals, it draws pilgrims and travelers alike.
Whether you are on a spiritual quest or a cultural tour of Goa, this temple offers a perfect blend of devotion, tradition, and aesthetic wonder. Here's your complete guide to experiencing it fully from sevas and rituals to nearby attractions, travel, and local flavors.
About the Temple
Shri Mahalsa Narayani Temple is one of the most prominent and sacred temples in Goa, particularly worshipped by the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community. The deity Mahalsa is revered as a powerful and benevolent form of Lord Vishnu’s Mohini incarnation.
Temple Description
Grand traditional Goan Hindu architecture
5-tiered Deepastambha (lamp tower) with 21 brass oil lamps
Ornately decorated idol of Mahalsa Narayani
Rich carvings, silver-plated doors, and a peaceful courtyard
Temple Speciality
Gajantal Seva (procession with elephants)
Famous Rathotsava (chariot festival) and Palakhi processions
Navaratri and Magha Jatra attract thousands
Address & Coordinates
Location: Shri Mahalsa Temple, Mardol, Ponda, Goa – 403404
Latitude, Longitude: 15.4435° N, 73.9802° E
Temple Timings
Daily: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Morning and evening aartis are major highlights.
Temple Sevas
Palakhi Seva, Abhishekam, Naivedyam
Special Pujas during Fridays, Ekadashi, Navaratri
Bookings handled by temple office
Traveling Facilities
Roads connected via Panaji, Ponda, and Margao
Public transport, private taxis, and rentals available
Food Facilities
Free prasadam served on special occasions
Nearby eateries offering Goan thalis, snacks, and beverages
Stay Facilities
Temple guest houses and dharamshalas available
Hotels and lodges in Ponda
Resorts nearby for extended leisure
Nearest Railway Stations
Karmali Station – ~14 km
Madgaon (Margao) Station – ~26 km
Nearest Airport
Goa International Airport (Dabolim) – ~25 km
Nearest Bus Station
Ponda Bus Stand – ~6 km
Local buses available frequently from Panaji and Margao
Bus Routes to Temple
Panaji → Ponda → Mardol
Margao → Ponda → Mardol
Train Routes
Reach Karmali or Madgaon
Then take bus/taxi to Ponda → Mardol
Air Routes
Land at Dabolim Airport
Taxi/bus route: Dabolim → Ponda → Mardol
Nearby Cities
Ponda (6 km), Panaji (21 km), Margao (26 km), Vasco da Gama (29 km)
Nearby Temples & Attractions
Shri Mangueshi Temple, Priol – 2.5 km
Shri Shantadurga Temple, Kavlem – 4.5 km
Old Goa Churches, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Spice Farms
Best Season to Visit
What to Shop For
Cashew nuts, Kokum, Spices, Brass idols, Handicrafts, Shell décor
A visit to Shri Mahalsa Narayani Temple is not just a pilgrimage, but a journey into the divine and cultural heart of Goa. From the sacred atmosphere of daily rituals to the grandeur of festive processions and the serenity of nearby temples and spice gardens, Mardol offers a spiritually enriching experience. Whether you're a devotee or a curious traveler, this temple provides a beautiful intersection of faith, history, and Goan heritage.
