Panjim Temples

A number of Hindu temples are found in Panjim the main city of Goa, the most famous of them being the Mahalaxmi and the Maruti temples.

Since the Portuguese captured Goa in 1510 the first Hindu temple that they allowed to be constructed was the Mahalaxmi Temple. Built in 1818, it is now one of the most famous temples of Panaji situated on the Dr. D.V. Road. It is devoted to the presiding deity of the Panaji village - Mahalaxmi, the goddess of wealth. The deity considered a peaceful form of the goddess wears a "linga" on her head and is made of black stone with four hands. During Hindu festivals like Dussera and Mahashivratri a lot of devotees come here and also in February a big fair is held during the Maruti Zatra that is a major festival dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

The Maruti temple situated on top of a hill overlooking the Fontainhas district, is dedicated to lord Hanuman, the monkey god. As it is brightly lit the temple is visible from a distance. It is beautifully lit up at night. One can approach it by following the old Margao road that runs parallel to the Qurem creek. Near the temple on the southern edge of Fontainhas, the Fontainhas of Phoenix spring is situated from which it derives its name. This spring that has three tanks where water collects from the mountain before flowing into a reservoir was once the lifeline of the area. Even today it is in use.