Shri Ramnath Devasthan Ponda,Bandiwada,Goa

The distinguishing feature of the Shri Ramnath Mandir is the five storied lamp tower (deepstambh) in the courtyard, which has the images of Hindu saints carved on its base. Located in Ponda in North Goa, it has a pretty interesting history behind it, like so many of the other famous temples in Goa.

History of Shri Ramnath Mandir

The original idol of Lord Ramnath was installed in Loutolim (a large village in the district of South Goa) by Gaud Saraswat Brahmins who had migrated from Rameshwar on the southern shores of India. But it was shifted to its present day abode of Bandivade, in order to escape persecution by the Portuguese.

Features of Shri Ramnath Mandir

Shri Ramnath Mandir houses the deities of Shri Laxmi Narayana, Shri Santeri & Shri Sidhanath. What makes it different from the other temples in Goa is that it has no pillars, and there is a special gallery for the ladies. The door leading to the inner sanctum is adorned with lovely scenes from Hindu epics in silver metal. One of the scenes depicts the devotees worshipping a Shiva Linga, while the other depicts Lord Vishnu with his consort Goddess Lakshmi seated on his couch.

Festival Held at Shri Ramnath Mandir

The main festival celebrated in the Shri Ramnath Mandir is the annual Jatra. It is attended with a lot of splendour & pomp, with devotees carrying the palanquin (called palkhi in the local language) around the temple.

Visiting Timings

05:00 AM – 08:00 PM