Shri Vijayadurga Temple Keri
A 16th-century architectural gem in Goa, famed for its Kavi art, serene lake, and divine ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience peace and quiet
Shri Vijayadurga Temple Keri
Best Time
Experience peace and quiet
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century architectural gem in Goa, famed for its Kavi art, serene lake, and divine ambiance.
"Must visit whenever you are at Goa. Get blessed."
Dress Modestly
Wear respectful attire covering shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts and chaddis. :dress:
No Deity Photos
Photography of the deity is not allowed. Be mindful of temple rules. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Kavi Art
Temple interiors and exteriors
Marvel at the traditional Kavi art, a unique mural painting style adorning the temple walls, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.
Blissful Lake View
Steps leading down from the main gate
Descend to the tranquil lake for a peaceful escape, offering a serene vista and a moment of quiet contemplation.
Wooden Interiors
Main temple hall
Appreciate the beautiful, unique wooden interiors of the temple, contributing to its classic architectural charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Respectful Attire and Photography
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
Wear respectful attire covering shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts and chaddis. :dress:
No Deity Photos
Photography of the deity is not allowed. Be mindful of temple rules. :camerawithflash:
Book Accommodation Early
If you plan to stay, book AC rooms in advance. :bed:
Enjoy Mahaprasad
Free Mahaprasad (food) is served to all devotees for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. :knifeforkplate:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
Wear respectful attire covering shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts and chaddis. :dress:
No Deity Photos
Photography of the deity is not allowed. Be mindful of temple rules. :camerawithflash:
Book Accommodation Early
If you plan to stay, book AC rooms in advance. :bed:
Enjoy Mahaprasad
Free Mahaprasad (food) is served to all devotees for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. :knifeforkplate:
Embrace the Serenity
Enjoy the peaceful vibes and positive energy. No network, just you and yourself. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Shri Vijayadurga Temple for its serene atmosphere, divine presence, and positive vibes, making it a must-visit for spiritual seekers. The well-maintained premises, beautiful Kavi art, and tranquil lake view are frequently highlighted as major attractions. The temple's hospitality, including free Mahaprasad and accommodation, is also highly appreciated, though booking in advance is recommended for stays.
"Serene atmosphere. Divine presence can be felt all around. Nicely maintained locality with great temple Mahaprasad is served to all devotees. Please do not take photo of diety. Friendly staff will guide you. The temple priest will assist you with Vijayadurga blessings. Must visit whenever you are at Goa. If you need stay in this temple area please book in advance. Mainly for Kulavis.
Jai Jai Vijayadurga devi"
Vishwanath S
"the story of this mandir is very legendary
the vibes here are very positive
do not miss visiting this mandir
Goa is not just about beaches - but more mandirs & Hindu Heritage. get blessed."
Laukik J
"It’s our kuldevi temple
We stayed in the temple with AC rooms
Food is free for all from breakfast lunch dinner and tea
Temple closes at 9 for public
Devi darshan is a blessing
Wear proper cloths before u enter the temple not in shorts and chaddis"
Shreyas Shenoy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shri Vijayadurga Temple is located in Keri, Ponda, approximately 30 km from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus service towards Ponda and then to Keri. The journey offers scenic views of the Goan countryside. 
Yes, the temple is accessible by car, and there is usually parking available nearby. The roads leading to Keri are generally well-maintained.
From other parts of Goa, you can take buses or taxis heading towards Ponda. Keri is a well-known village in the Ponda taluka, making it relatively easy to find transport.
The temple is situated in the village of Keri, Ponda. It's known for its serene surroundings and a beautiful lake nearby.
Yes, it's feasible to visit Shri Vijayadurga Temple as a day trip from South Goa, though it will involve a significant travel time. Planning your route in advance is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no entry fee to visit Shri Vijayadurga Temple. Donations are welcome and appreciated to help with the temple's maintenance and activities.
The temple is generally open to the public until 9 PM. It's advisable to check for any specific timings or temporary closures, especially during festivals.
No, advance booking of tickets is not required for general temple visits. However, if you plan to use the accommodation facilities, booking in advance is essential.
While the temple is open for darshan, it's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the surroundings and architecture. The temple closes for the public at 9 PM.
Yes, visiting during festivals like Navratri can be a special experience, but expect larger crowds. The temple is known to host special events and celebrations.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography of the deity is strictly prohibited inside the temple. You can take photos of the temple architecture, surroundings, and Kavi art, but always be respectful of the sanctity of the place.
Besides the deity, it's wise to be cautious about photographing religious rituals or private areas. When in doubt, always ask for permission or observe others.
The Kavi art, the wooden interiors, and the serene lake view from the steps are excellent subjects for photography. The exterior architecture also offers great photographic opportunities.
Using tripods might be restricted, especially inside the main sanctum. It's best to check with the temple authorities or observe if others are using them.
Drone usage is generally not permitted in and around religious sites without prior permission from the authorities. It's best to avoid flying drones to prevent any issues.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the temple provides free Mahaprasad (food) to all devotees for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This is a significant aspect of the temple's hospitality.
The Mahaprasad typically consists of simple, wholesome vegetarian meals, prepared with devotion. It's a traditional offering to all visitors.
While the temple offers free meals, there might be local eateries or small restaurants in the nearby Ponda town if you wish to explore other dining options.
Yes, tea is also mentioned as being available, contributing to the overall hospitality offered to devotees.
For special arrangements, it's best to contact the temple administration directly. They might be able to assist with specific requests, especially for group visits.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The temple is known for its serene atmosphere and divine presence. Visitors often describe it as peaceful, positive, and a great escape from city noise.
The temple is a fine example of classical architecture, featuring intricate Kavi art and beautiful wooden interiors. The unique design contributes to its historical significance.
Yes, the temple offers accommodation facilities with clean and spacious AC rooms, though booking in advance is required. Free Mahaprasad is also served.
The lake adjacent to the temple offers a blissful view and a quiet spot for contemplation. Steps lead down to this serene water body from the main gate.
A visit of 1-2 hours is usually sufficient to explore the temple, admire the art, and enjoy the surroundings. If you plan to stay for Mahaprasad or use accommodation, allocate more time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress modestly as a family, ensuring everyone wears clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Feeding is a highlight, with free Mahaprasad available for all, which can be a convenient and wholesome option for family meals.
🙏 Devotees and Spiritual Seekers
+1The opportunity to receive blessings from the temple priest and partake in the Mahaprasad further enhances the spiritual experience.
🎨 Art and Architecture Enthusiasts
+2 The detailed murals offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional Goan art forms and mythology. The temple's wooden interiors are also noteworthy for their craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal. Beyond the main structure, the surrounding environment, including the serene lake, adds to the visual appeal.
The temple has also been a subject of detailed documentation projects, highlighting its importance in preserving cultural heritage through art and architecture. Visiting during a plein air painting session, as organized by local art groups, can offer a unique perspective on appreciating the temple's beauty through an artist's eye. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance
+2 The Sahyadri Khand even mentions Goddess Durga visiting Sancoale to pay respects to the Ocean God and encountering a demon named Kaalaan, adding a layer of mythology to its origins. This temple is not just a place of worship but a significant Hindu heritage site in Goa, showcasing the region's cultural and religious past. The story of its relocation highlights the importance of preserving religious artifacts and traditions against historical adversities. Visiting the temple offers a glimpse into this legacy and the enduring devotion of its followers.
Today, it stands as a beacon of spiritual solace and architectural beauty, attracting devotees and history enthusiasts alike. The temple's continued existence and the preservation of its art forms are a tribute to the community's dedication.
Architectural Marvels and Artistry
+2The temple also features beautiful wooden interiors, contributing to its classic charm and creating a warm, inviting ambiance for devotees. The craftsmanship evident in the woodwork is a significant aspect of its architectural appeal.
+1Recent efforts have also focused on documenting the temple's architecture. For instance, a project involved detailed on-site documentation, including deliberating, drawing, sketching, and writing to create communication panels that highlight the temple's heritage.
This dedication to preserving and showcasing its architectural and artistic value underscores the temple's importance as a cultural landmark.Community and Hospitality
For those seeking a spiritual retreat, the temple offers accommodation facilities with clean and spacious AC rooms. However, it's crucial to book these rooms in advance, as they are popular, especially among the temple's 'Kulavis' (community members).
The temple staff and priests are known to be friendly and helpful, guiding visitors and assisting them with blessings.
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