Shri Ramnathi Temple

Shri Ramnathi Temple at Bandora in Ponda taluka is dedicated to Ramnath, a form of Lord Shiva. The deity was originally worshipped at Loutolim in Salcete and was moved inland in the 16th century to escape Portuguese religious persecution. Tradition holds that the linga was originally installed by Lord Rama, which gives the temple its name. The complex also houses shrines to other deities, including Shantadurga, Lakshmi Narayan and Ganapati. The temple's silver-plated screen at the sanctum entrance is a highlight of its interior. Its architecture follows the Goan pattern of a tiled roof, dome and lamp tower. The temple is one of several major shrines clustered in the Ponda area. It is worth the trip as part of a day visiting Ponda's temple belt.