Hidden Gems of Goa - Mahaganpati Temple, Khandole.

Goa, a tiny state between Maharashtra and Karnataka is a favorite destination of all Indians and is also a famous international location.

When one thinks of Goa, what come to our mind are beaches, chilling, party and boozing but GOA is much beyond it. Goa is a feeling, the quite lanes, coconut lagoons, pious temples, vast sanctuaries, calm beaches, gigantic forts, Massive churches and some hidden gems.

So, we decided to do a series on some off beat places in Goa for people who like to explore the place and see what real Goa looks like. We will publish one unexplored destination every weekend. As we start any good thing with the name of God, let us also start this series with a beautiful temple of Ganapati situated at Khandole. This temple is my personal favorite since it’s our “Kuldaivat” and who doesn't love our favorite Ganpati Bappa .

The Temple is situated in Khandole/Candola village of Ponda Taluka which is around 20 kms from Panaji and takes around 30 mins to reach. This MahaGanapati temple has a history; it was earlier situated in Divar Island. After the Portuguese destroyed the temple in Divar Island in 1540, the devotees of Lord Ganesha moved the Idol to Khandepar later to Narve and finally to Khandole in 1750 to save it from invasion and destruction.

The Temple was strategically situated in a valley surrounded by dense tress at that point in time to hide it from invaders.

The New Idol of black stone was installed on 31st January, 1969 and the old Idol has been preserved in the Gabhara itself on the right side of the main deity. Besides the Ganpati you can see one more temple dedicated to Devi Shantadurga.

The Temple has a serene feel to it and since it is not so famous you can find peace and calm in this place. There is also a small pond in the vicinity of the Temple where you can find turtles and water snakes.

Do visit this Pious Temple and feel the tranquility. Ganpati Bappa Morya!!!

Radhika Thankar