Key Highlights |
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| ◉ The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Mahadev. |
| ◉ The temple is a monument of national importance protected by the ASI. |
| ◉ The temple features a Nandi Mandapa housing a headless Nandi statue. |
The Mahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Goa. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is situated amidst the dense forests of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, near the foothills of the Western Ghats. The temple is also known as the Tambdi Mahadev Temple. A distinctive feature of this temple is its location; it is surrounded by lush greenery and the Western Ghats, with the Surla River flowing nearby. The blend of ancient stone architecture, the forest setting, and the flowing water creates a unique and serene atmosphere.
Visiting Hours for Mahadev Temple, Tambdi Surla
The temple is open throughout the week, and visiting hours are from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Timings may change during festivals or special occasions; therefore, it is advisable to check locally before visiting.
Major Festival at Mahadev Temple, Tambdi Surla
Mahashivratri is the main festival celebrated at Mahadev Temple, Tambdi Surla.
How to Reach Mahadev Temple, Tambdi Surla
The Mahadev Temple is located at Tambdi Surla in Goa. It can be reached via forest-lined roads leading towards Tambdi Surla/Molem. The nearest major airports are Dabolim Airport (GOI) and Manohar International Airport. The temple is approximately 65–70 km from Panaji by road.
The Tambdi Mahadev Temple was built during the 13th century under the Kadamba dynasty. It is primarily constructed from sturdy grey-black basalt stone, believed to have been brought from the Deccan Plateau. The temple reflects the Kadamba-Yadava architectural style, evident in its distinctive carvings and design.
The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Mahadev (Shiva), who is worshipped in the sanctum sanctorum. An antarala (vestibule) connects the sanctum to the pillared hall. There is a Nandi mandapa housing a headless Nandi statue. The basalt pillars feature exquisite carvings, including designs such as elephants and chains.
The stone ceilings are adorned with intricate lotus designs. Sculptural panels depict Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma alongside their consorts. The temple faces east, allowing the morning sunlight to illuminate the sanctum sanctorum. Above the sanctum rises a three-tiered tower; its uppermost section is either unfinished or was removed in the past.
Local tradition associates the temple's dark sanctum sanctorum with the king cobra, which devotees believe is linked to the sacred presence of Lord Shiva. The temple remains an active place of worship to this day. Its remote location within the forest allowed it to remain largely safe even during periods of political turmoil and Portuguese rule. The temple is a monument of national importance protected by the ASI.
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
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