Shri Shantadurga temples in Goa comprise of three temples, which are placed in Kavalem, Pemem and Fatorpa (Quepem). The temple of Shantadurga is contributing tremendously in making Goa a famous travel destination. The annual festival zatra, at Shantadurga, falls in the month of Pausha Shuddha Navami, attracts millions of devotees from all over the Goa as well as several parts of India.
Shri Shantadurga Temple (Kavalem): Shri Shantadurga Temple (Kavalem) is located 18 kms from Margo at Fatorpa (Quepem) at the foothills of Kavalem. It is a magnificently built temple positioned just 33 kms from Panaji, i.e. in an extremely tourist spot. A rich and beautiful 'Garbhakuda' (the holy of holies) where the deity is kept shows a huge gathering of devotees from all over world. The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Shantadurga who mediates between Vishnu and Shiva.
Shri Shantadurga (Pemem): Shri Shantadurga (Pemem) is situated at a distance of 14 kms from Mapusa at Dhargal. The temple is placed in a brilliant environment of scenic gifts. The Goddess of the Shri Shantadurga temple was carried at Sanquelim, during the Portuguese destruction of the temples in Barde.
Shri Shantadurga (Kunkolienkarin): Shri Shantadurga (Kunkolienkarin) is located 18 kms from Margo at Fatorpa (Quepem). Portuguese moved the goddess to Fatorpa in 16th Century during religious persecution.
The unique special features of the Idols of Shantadurga temple is the impressive idol of Goddess Shree Durga who conjectures between Shree Vishnu and Shree Shiva and thus ceased the terrified war between the two Lords. Here Durga is encircled by Vishnu and Shiva on both sides.
