Goa is one of the most secular states, this is very evident with the equal amount of churches and temples. The temples in Goa are dedicated to various deities.

MANGUESHI TEMPLE

Shri Manguesh temple is dedicated to Lord Manguesh, a form of Shiva, which is recognised only in Goa. Though small, it has an air of distinctive elegance. Its lofty white tower at the entrance is a landmark of the countryside.

SHRI SHANTADURGA TEMPLE, KAVLEM

Shri Shantadurga temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva. King Shahu of Satara built this temple in 1738. This temple is the largest and most famous in Goa. The goddess here is also referred as Durga. The actual meaning of Shanta in Sanskrit language, means peace. Thus by combining the two names, we get the name Shantadurga, which thus means the Goddess of Peace.

MAHADEV TEMPLE, TAMBDI SURLA

Built in the 13th century, this is the only temple belonging to the Kadamba architecture that has stood the test of time. The temple has been built with black basalt, which was probably brought from across the borders, as this rock is not found in Goa.

The intricate carvings that have been made on the pillars and walls of the temple are noteworthy. The temple has a simple façade with a tower or a shikhara right above the sanctum. This tower has the images of the gods of the Hindu trinity along with their respective consorts beautifully carved on it. Lord Shiva facing the north, Lord Vishnu facing the west and Lord Brahma, the south.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the entrance of the temple faces the east so that the sunrays at dawn fall directly on the deity. The Surla River flows close to the temple. Devotees generally take a dip in this river before entering the temple premises.

SHRI NAGUESH TEMPLE, BANDORA

Shri Naguesh temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most ancient temples in Goa. It was established in 1413, years before Alfonso de Albuquerque arrived in Goa.

The temple has a gallery on both sides that contains exquisite specimens of intricate woodcarvings of the events of Ramayana on one side and wooden images of Astadikpal and Gandharva on the other.
The most important festival that is commemorated here during the month of November is the Anguish Satrap.

DEVKI KRISHNA TEMPLE, MARCELA

The small town of Marcel is the location of the temples of more than 15 deities of the Hindu pantheon. The unique feature of this temple is that this is the only temple in India where Lord Krishna is worshipped alongside mother Devaki as Devakikrishna. The main Deities Devakikrishna and affiliate deities of Bhumika Devi, Laxmi Ravalnath, Mallinath, Katyayani, Chodaneshwar and Dhada Shankar were originally located at Choodamani island (Chorao island of today).

The Garbha Griha (inner sanctum) of the temple has the beautiful idol of Devaki and Lord Krishna. The idol of Devaki is in standing posture with a child Krishna, between her legs. This particular pose is considered to be unique. The idols are beautifully carved in black stone. The palakhi is taken in Shukla and Trayodashi (except in Chaturmas). Ramanavmi, Gokulastami are celebrated on a grand scale. Limited accommodations available. The major festival is Malni Purnima from Paush Vadya which is celebrated over here with great fervour and excitement.