Mallikarjun Temple
Details: The Shri Mallikarjun Temple is an important Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Mallikarjun, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is situated in the peaceful Sristhal village, northeast of Canacona town. The current temple structure dates back to 1778, although the original shrine is believed to be much older, possibly from the 16th Century. The temple is renowned for its unique blend of traditional Hindu and local Goan architectural styles. The interior features beautifully carved wooden columns and pillars that depict scenes from the Puranas and the epic Mahabharata. The deity is highly revered locally as Adavat Sinhasanadhishwar Mahapati Canacona. It is a place of great spiritual importance and a central hub for vibrant annual festivals, making it a peaceful and culturally rich visit away from the beaches.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 Hours:Place Type:
Religious/Cultural Spot:Entry Fees:
Entry Fees:
No Entry Fee: Entrance to the Mallikarjun Temple is entirely free for all visitors. This is customary for Hindu temples in Goa.
Donation: Visitors are welcome to make a voluntary donation for the...Entry Fees:
No Entry Fee: Entrance to the Mallikarjun Temple is entirely free for all visitors. This is customary for Hindu temples in Goa.
Donation: Visitors are welcome to make a voluntary donation for the upkeep of the temple.
Photography Fee: There is no formal fee, but asking permission before photographing the deity or the inner sanctum is a sign of respect.Timing:
Timings:
Regular
Timings: The temple is generally open from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Times may vary slightly on festival days.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning (6:30 AM to 9:...Timings:
Regular
Timings: The temple is generally open from 6:30 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Times may vary slightly on festival days.
Ideal Visit Time: Early Morning (6:30 AM to 9:00 AM) is the best time to experience the peaceful atmosphere and morning rituals without crowds. Late Afternoon is also pleasant for a visit.
Festival Days: The temple is busiest during the major annual festivals (Jatra, Veeramel), which usually fall between February and April.Special Events:
Special Event:
Mallikarjun Jatra: A major annual festival (typically between February and April) where the idol of the deity is taken out in a colorful procession to the nearby Kindlebag Beach for a ritual bath, accompanied by music and celeb...Special Event:
Mallikarjun Jatra: A major annual festival (typically between February and April) where the idol of the deity is taken out in a colorful procession to the nearby Kindlebag Beach for a ritual bath, accompanied by music and celebration.
Veeramel Festival: Coincides with the larger Shigmo Festival (usually in March or April). It is a highly traditional ritual involving a display of devotion and ancient martial traditions.
Shisharani: Another unique ritual celebrated at this temple, where devotees perform specific rites to appease the deity, drawing large crowds of locals and devotees.Best Photo Spots:
Best Photo Spots:
The Wooden Pillar Carvings: Focus on the intricate, detailed carvings on the main pillars within the mandap to capture the artistic and historical value.
Temple Facade: Capture the entire tr...Best Photo Spots:
The Wooden Pillar Carvings: Focus on the intricate, detailed carvings on the main pillars within the mandap to capture the artistic and historical value.
Temple Facade: Capture the entire traditional Goan red and white exterior of the main shrine, framed by the surrounding greenery.
Festival Procession: During the Jatra or Veeramel (with permission), photograph the vibrant, colorful procession and the traditional attire of the participants.
The Sacred Tree: Frame the temple structure with the ancient, sprawling Peepal Tree for a sense of historical context and peace.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Things to Do:
Worship and Prayer: Attend the daily Aarti (prayer ritual) to experience the local Hindu devotional tradition.
Study the Carvings: Spend time examining the intricate wooden carvings on the six main pillars, which serve as visual storytelling of Hindu epics.
Take a Peaceful Walk: The temple is surrounded by green hills and nature, making the complex grounds a tranquil place for a quiet stroll and reflection.
Witness Local Customs: If visiting during a festival, observe the unique traditional rituals like the Veeramel procession (check dates in March or April).
Engage with Locals: Speak to the temple priests or local villagers to learn about the temple's history, the legend, and the si...
Information
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Why Famous:
Why Famous:
Ancient and Sacred Site: It is considered one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Goa, holding deep spiritual significance for the local Kshatriya community and devotees of Lord Shiva.
Unique Arc...Why Famous:
Ancient and Sacred Site: It is considered one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Goa, holding deep spiritual significance for the local Kshatriya community and devotees of Lord Shiva.
Unique Architecture: Its fame comes from the beautiful and rare wooden architecture, particularly the six pillars in the assembly hall (mandap) that are intricately carved with mythological stories from the Mahabharata and Puranas.
Annual Jatra and Festivals: It is famous for hosting colorful and unique annual festivals like the Mallikarjun Jatra (chariot festival), Veeramel, and Shisharani. The Veeramel festival, in particular, involves a traditional display of martial arts and devotion. -
Architecture:
Hindu Goan Temple Style: The temple's architecture is a distinct mix of traditional Hindu and local Goan design elements.
Dimensions: The temple complex includes the main shrine, a large mandap (hall), and surrounding structures for priests ...Hindu Goan Temple Style: The temple's architecture is a distinct mix of traditional Hindu and local Goan design elements.
Dimensions: The temple complex includes the main shrine, a large mandap (hall), and surrounding structures for priests and rituals. The most notable features are the large, ornately carved wooden pillars in the mandap. The six pillars are decorated with intricate scenes from Hindu epics. The exterior is notable for its vibrant, traditional red and white facade and the dome-like roof over the inner sanctum. The shrine also features carved images of dwarpalakas (doorkeepers) on the doors. A large, sacred Peepal Tree often forms a living architectural element of the complex. The overall structure is relatively modest in size compared to South Indian temples but is rich in detail.
Intricate Wood Carvings: The interior wooden carvings are the most significant architectural and artistic feature. -
How To Reach:
How to Reach:
By Air: Fly to Goa International Airport (Dabolim - GOI), approximately 70 KMS away. Hire a taxi to Sristhal village (approx. Rs.1,900).
By Train: The nearest station is Canacona Railway Station...
Tourism Tips
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