A 12th-century basalt stone temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located inside the forests of Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary. It is Goa's oldest surviving temple.
Discover what makes this destination truly special

Located deep within the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park, the Mahadev Temple at Tambdi Surla is a remarkable example of 12th-century architecture. Made entirely of grey-black basalt, it stands apart from other temples in Goa. The temple is built in the Kadamba-Yadava style and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visitors first notice its remote and quiet setting, surrounded by forest and with the Surla River flowing nearby. The structure itself is compact but full of detail.
Plan your trip around the ideal season for the best experience
October-January, weekends, and during the Mahashivratri festival, when many local devotees visit.
February-March and on weekdays during the tourist season.
April-September, due to the intense summer heat followed by heavy monsoon rains.
Plan ahead with accurate pricing and visiting hours
Indian Visitors
Free
No entry fee
Opening Hours
8:30 AM — 5:30 PM
Open all days of the week. It is highly recommended to visit during daylight hours and leave the area before sunset due to its location inside a forest.
Free entry for all visitors.
Find your way to this destination with ease
Address
Near Tambdi Surla village, Sanguem, inside Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park
Coordinates
15.4390, 74.2525
Nearest City
Goa
Multiple ways to get to this destination conveniently
Goa International Airport (GOI) in Dabolim is the nearest major airport, located about 65 km away. The drive from the airport takes approximately 2 hours by tax...
The nearest major railway station is Madgaon Junction (MAO), about 45 km away. Kulem (QLM) is a smaller station closer at 12 km, but with fewer train connection...
The temple is around 65 km from Panjim and 50 km from Margao. It is best reached by car or scooter, taking the turn-off from National Highway 748. The final str...
Renting a scooter (around ₹400-600 per day) or a car is the most flexible option. Taxis can be hired for a round trip, but ride-hailing app services are not rel...
Learn about the story and cultural importance of this destination
The Mahadev Temple was built in the 12th century, during the rule of the Kadamba dynasty. It is believed to have been constructed by Hemadri, a minister of the Yadava king Ramachandra. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a rare surviving example of Kadamba architecture in Goa. Its remote lo...
This temple is significant as the oldest preserved temple in Goa. Its architectural style is a fusion of Kadamba and Yadava influences, which is uncommon. The choice of basalt stone for construction is also unique, as it is not found locally and had to be transported to the site. The temple's surviv...
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