Sharvani Temple, Advalpale
Bicholim, North Goa
The Sharvani Temple in Advalpale, located in the Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Shree Sharvani (an incarnation of Goddess Durga). The temple is known for its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance, attracting both devotees and nature lovers due to its location amidst lush greenery and scenic surroundings. It is especially popular during the Navratri festival, when special prayers and celebrations take place.
About
The Sharvani Temple in Advalpale
The Sharvani Temple in Advalpale, located in the western part of Goa, is a revered and historic temple dedicated to Goddess Sharvani, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Situated amidst lush greenery, the temple is a peaceful retreat that attracts devotees seeking spiritual solace. The temple's architecture is traditional, with intricate carvings and a serene atmosphere, making it a significant pilgrimage site for locals. The temple is particularly known for its annual Sharvani Yatra, which draws a large number of devotees who come to offer prayers and seek blessings from the goddess. The peaceful surroundings and religious significance of the Sharvani Temple make it an important cultural landmark in the region.
Sharvani Devi
Sharvani Devi is a revered deity in the state of Goa, worshipped primarily in the Sharvani Devasthan, located in the picturesque village of Advalpale near Bicholim. The temple, dedicated to the goddess Sharvani (a form of Goddess Parvati), is one of the important places of worship in the region and is especially popular among the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community. According to legend, the goddess is considered a protector and bestower of blessings, worshipped for prosperity, protection, and success. The temple's architecture reflects the traditional Goan style, adorned with intricate carvings and a serene ambiance. The deity Sharvani is depicted with a trident, representing her power to protect devotees from evil. The temple complex is vibrant, with the annual Sharvani Jatra and festivals such as Navratri drawing large crowds who participate in various rituals and cultural activities. Set amid a lush, green landscape, the temple offers a peaceful retreat and is a symbol of Goa's rich spiritual heritage.
Sharvani Devi History
The history of Sharvani Devi is rooted in local traditions and beliefs, particularly among the Goud Saraswat Brahmins of Goa. Goddess Sharvani is considered a form of Goddess Durga, the embodiment of strength, power, and protection. Though the exact origins of Sharvani Devi in Goa are not entirely documented, she is revered as a protective deity who safeguards devotees from misfortune and evil. The temple dedicated to Sharvani Devi is situated in Advalpale, a serene village in the Bicholim region of Goa. The legend surrounding the deity is tied to the local community's beliefs in divine protection, and it is said that Sharvani Devi was instrumental in shielding the villagers from various calamities, including pestilence and natural disasters. The temple was likely established by the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community, who have a deep reverence for the goddess, and over time, it became a significant place of worship and pilgrimage.
Sharvani Devi Timings
- Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Break: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM (Temple may remain closed)
- Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Sharvani Devi Aarti Timings
- Morning Aarti: Around 6:00 AM - 7:00 AM
- Evening Aarti: Around 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sharvani Temple Advalpale Nearby Attractions
- Harvalem Waterfalls (11 km) - A picturesque waterfall located near the village of Sanquelim, especially stunning during the monsoon season.
- Brahma Temple (12 km) - One of the very few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in India, located at Pomburpa.
- Fort Aguada (35 km) - A historic Portuguese fort offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary (35 km) - Known for its rich biodiversity, including rare species like the Indian leopard and sloth bear.
- Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (45 km) - A haven for birdwatchers, home to a wide variety of bird species.
- Old Goa (30 km) - A UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful churches like Basilica of Bom Jesus and Se Cathedral.
- Safa Masjid (15 km) - An ancient mosque built in the 16th century, set amidst lush greenery.
- Mollem National Park (35 km) - Part of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its biodiversity.
- Cabo de Rama Fort (45 km) - One of the oldest forts in Goa, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- Tambdi Surla Waterfall (30 km) - A hidden waterfall offering a serene and peaceful retreat.
Visiting Information
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Special poojas during Navratri and Zatra festivals
Entry Fee
No entry fee - donations welcome
Special pooja fees may apply
Location
How to Reach
The temple is located in Advalpale, a village in the Ponda region of Goa. It can be reached by road from Ponda town, approximately 20 kilometers away. Visitors can hire taxis or drive their own vehicles to the temple.
- By Car/Taxi: From Panaji (the capital city of Goa): The temple is about 35-40 kilometers from Panaji, which would take around 1 to 1.5 hours by car. You can take the NH 66 (National Highway 66) toward Bicholim, then follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Advalpale village.
- By Bus: Goa's local bus services can take you to Bicholim or Sanquelim, which are the nearest towns to Advalpale. From Bicholim, you may need to hire a local auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Advalpale village and the Sharvani Temple, as bus routes are not very direct to the temple.
- By Two-Wheeler: Renting a motorcycle or scooter is a popular option for tourists. It's convenient for traveling around Goa and offers more flexibility. You can follow the directions from Panaji or Mapusa via NH 66, and then take the local roads to reach the temple.
Nearby Attractions
- Harvalem Waterfalls - Picturesque waterfall near Sanquelim
- Brahma Temple - Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Brahma
- Fort Aguada - Historic Portuguese fort
- Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary - Rich biodiversity sanctuary
- Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary - Birdwatching paradise
- Old Goa - UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Safa Masjid - Ancient 16th-century mosque
- Mollem National Park - Part of Bhagwan Mahavir Sanctuary
- Cabo de Rama Fort - Ancient fort with sea views
- Tambdi Surla Waterfall - Hidden waterfall retreat
Photos
Guidelines
- The Sharvani Temple is located in Advalpale, a village in the Ponda region of Goa. It can be reached by road from Ponda town, approximately 20 kilometers away. Visitors can hire taxis or drive their own vehicles to the temple.
- The temple is typically open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. For a peaceful experience, early morning or late evening visits are recommended. The temple may have specific timings for special poojas or festivals.
- As with most temples, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothes. Traditional attire is preferred, especially for those participating in religious ceremonies.
- The temple provides basic facilities like a small rest area, and parking is available nearby. There are also some shops selling religious items and prasad. Ensure to carry your own water and snacks.
- After visiting the Sharvani Temple, you can explore nearby attractions like Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, Tambdi Surla Waterfall, and Saptakoteshwar Temple for more spiritual and natural experiences in the area.
- Footwear: Remove footwear before entering the temple premises as a sign of respect.
- Quiet Behavior: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor, especially during prayer times and religious ceremonies.
- Photography: While photography might be allowed in the vicinity, be mindful not to disturb other visitors or any ongoing prayers or ceremonies.
- Prayer and Meditation: Feel free to engage in prayer or meditation if you're inclined to do so. The temple is believed to have spiritual significance and many visitors come seeking spiritual solace and blessings.
- Local Guidance: If you have questions about the temple or its history, feel free to ask the locals or any authorized personnel on-site. They might be able to provide you with additional insights and information.
- Litter and Cleanliness: Keep the area clean and dispose of any trash responsibly. Avoid leaving behind any non-biodegradable waste.
- Be Mindful of Others: The temple attracts visitors from different walks of life, some seeking spiritual experiences. Be respectful of others' beliefs and practices while at the site.
FAQs
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