Temple Name: Shri Nagesh Maharudra Temple (Nagnath/Nagueshi)
Deity: Lord Nagesh (Form of Shiva)
Type: Swayambhu (self-manifested Shiva Linga)
Address: Shri Nageshi Temple Road, Bandora, Ponda, Goa 403401, India
Coordinates: 15.4088° N, 74.0095° E
About the Temple
Shri Nagesh Temple is one of Goa’s oldest and most sacred Shiva temples, distinguished for its uninterrupted worship even during the Portuguese rule. It features traditional Goan architecture with a deepastambha, a scenic water tank, and agrashalas for pilgrims. The temple is associated with ancient Saraswat Brahmin communities and retains its original location and sanctity.
Historical Significance
Established at least by the 7th century CE
Stone inscription from 1413 AD documents land grants under King Veer Pratap Devaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire
Survived the Portuguese inquisition without being relocated, unlike many other temples in Goa
Temple Timings
Open Daily: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Aarti: Conducted during early morning and evening hours
Temple Sevas (Ritual Offerings)
Rudrabhishek
Laghu Rudra
Mahapuja
Panchamrut Abhishek
Mahashivratri Special Sevas
Major Festivals
Mahashivratri: Celebrated with grandeur including Rathotsava (chariot festival)
Chaitra Jatra: Held during March-April alongside Ramanavami
Celebrations also include Navratri, Diwali, and other Hindu festivals with music, lights, and devotion
Accessibility and Travel Info
How to Reach
By Bus: KSRTC and private buses connect Ponda to Panaji, Margao, Vasco, and Mapusa
By Train: Alight at Madgaon Station (22 km), then take a taxi or bus
By Air: Land at Goa International Airport (Dabolim) – approx. 38 km
Nearby Transit Hubs
Bus Stand: Ponda Bus Stand – 4 km
Railway Station: Madgaon (Margao) – 22 km
Airport: Goa International Airport (Dabolim) – 38 km
Food Facilities
Prasad offered on select days
Local vegetarian eateries and restaurants are available in and around Ponda
Stay Options
Pilgrim Dharamshalas near temple
Budget hotels and lodges in Ponda
Luxury and mid-range hotels in nearby Panaji and Margao
Nearby Cities
Ponda – 4 km
Margao – 22 km
Panaji (Panjim) – 29 km
Vasco da Gama – 34 km
Nearby Attractions
Temples
Shri Shantadurga Temple – 2 km
Shri Ramnathi Temple – 1.4 km
Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, Bandivade – nearby
Nature & Culture
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Goa Sahakari Spice Farm
Khandepar Caves
Local Shopping
Brass lamps, pooja items
Goan spices (especially black pepper and cinnamon)
Cashews, kokum, coconut products
Handcrafted shell art and souvenirs
Best Time to Visit
October to March Pleasant weather, ideal for temple visits and exploring nearby attractions The Shri Nagesh Temple is more than just a place of worship it's a timeless symbol of resilience, devotion, and Goan culture. With its unique history, unbroken traditions, and divine atmosphere, the temple offers a meaningful experience for pilgrims, culture seekers, and spiritual travelers alike.
