Exploring Tambdi Surla: Goa’s Oldest Shiva Temple
Most of the world thinks of Goa when thinking about beaches and nightlife, but that isn’t all that Goa has to offer. From quiet time within historical precincts, to a glimpse into Goa’s ancient history and culture, a place like Tambdi Surla Temple will surely provide an opportunity to explore something deeper than your average tourist attraction.
A Glimpse into History
The Tambdi Surla temple dates back to the 12th century. The very embodiment of deity as Lord Shiva, the Tambdi Surla temple is one of the oldest surviving in Goa. Constructed during the Kadamba dynasty, it has a great historical significance in the country. Though not big in size, the carving of gods and mythological scenes on the stone walls speak volumes of the artistry of those days.
The temple has a charm in its simplicity. It is almost as if the touch of time had not come across Tambdi Surla, unlike the big, very modern temples in Goa. The carvings and the sculptures are small yet so finely detailed, and visiting this temple is something anyone who’s got some penchant for history and art wouldn’t want to miss.
Architecture and Nature
A masterpiece of ancient design, standing strong for centuries. Tambdi Surla Temple is truly a hidden architectural gem.
Made out of basalt stone, the Tambdi Surla proudly stands there with green forests all around. Its atmosphere adds to the serenity and beauty. The temple is simple but impressive, considering its details. From carvings on the wall to the Shiva Linga, which is the central deity, the temple seems to be a passage into the past.
Once inside, there is a peaceful ambiance along with the natural surroundings that connect one to history and nature. Small in size as compared to other temples in Goa, its beauty lies in its calm atmosphere and craftsmanship by the artisans of Kadamba.
How to reach Tambdi Surla Temple
Tambdi Surla is about 60 km from Panjim and 37 km from Ponda. This drive takes you through the scenic countryside and the forested areas of Goa. The journey itself is peaceful, offering you a view of natural beauty from Goa, far away from beaches and city life. As you draw closer to this place, the forest envelops it around you, giving you the feeling that you are entering another time.
It is through a path to Tambdi Surla that one can walk away from the beaten track and experience another facet of Goa. This temple, in itself, is surrounded by nature; hence it is an ideal place to unwind and connect with culture and the environment
Cultural Importance and Festivals
Tambdi Surla is not only an ancient monument but also holds spiritual significance. Mahashivratri happens to be a yearly festival in the reverence of Lord Shiva, at which there is hectic activity here. Many devotees throng the temple to offer prayers. Milk, flowers, fruits, and ‘Bel’ leaves are brought as a sign of worship. The temple exudes spiritual energy when such hundreds of devotees come together.
This is the time when Mahashivratri starts, and the temple deck seems more vibrant with devotional songs and prayers. Tambdi Surla more than its temple seems to symbolize the living culture and religious practices of Goa. Even the small temple attains importance and large crowds gather for the festival.
Conclusion
While most tourists flock to the beaches of Goa, the Tambdi Surla Temple offers something totally different. You can fade away into Goa’s colonial and cultural history and relax in its forest surroundings. The simplicity yet detail in design of this temple tell it connected to the past, and so, here stands a place for historically inclined souls and spiritual gurus.
Whether you are looking for the relaxing, historical, and even earth-linked side of Goa, then Tambdi Surla is the place to visit. Its old age, serenity, and cultural importance make it one of the hidden gems of Goa. From a history buff to one who simply wants peace, this is sure to be an experience from which you will never forget, far from the normal tourist trail.