Tambdi Surla Temple: A Hidden Gem Tucked Away in the Dense Forests of Goa

When we talk about Goa, it paints a different picture in people's minds. According to Bollywood movies, Goa is famous for its raving party culture, buzzing nightlife, bars and booze. But there’s more to Goa than this; it has a rich and diverse culture. The pristine waters, sandy shores, coconut groves, quaint lanes, vibrant Portuguese-inspired architecture, and how could we miss out on the food? May it be an authentic Goan Seafood Thali or a Cashew Curry, the list goes on. However, many are still unaware of the state's historical significance. 

Nestled in the dense forests of Goa is a temple carved out of chloritic schist dating back to the 13th century. Highlighting the ‘Kadamba’ style of architecture, the Tambdi Surla Temple is a testament to time. It can also be called one of the oldest Goan temples. In this article, we talk about the unheard history of Goa and explore the hidden local attractions!

The History

Tambadi Surla Temple was built in the late 12th-13th century during the reign of Kadamba dynasty. The temple is located in Molem Wildlife Sanctuary, on the left bank of a natural stream, locally known as ‘Vazar Sakalacho. ’ The temple is built in the Kadamba-Yadav style of architecture. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is reminiscent of the temples at Aihole in neighbouring Karnataka. The temple is located at the foot of the Anmod Ghat, which connects the state of Goa to Karnataka.

Some people say the temple is built out of a single rock, while some oppose the statement. It is said that the temple survived the Islamic invasions and the Goa Inquisition due to its remote location, buried in the heart of the Western Ghats. This beautifully carved temple is smaller compared to other Goan temples like Shantadurga, Mangeshi and others. Due to some reasons, the top part of the temple was never completed. The intricate carvings and sculptures highlight the temple architecture. A few historians also opine that, Tambdi Surla Temple is a perfect blend of Yadav-Hoysala-Chaluykyan-Kadamba style of architecture.

What’s Inside This Architectural Marvel?

The temple is built facing east and stands on a simple moulded plinth. It consists of a 'Garbhagriha' (sanctum sanctorium), an 'Antarala', and a pillared 'Mukhamanpada' (front porch or the entrance hall) where a stone sculpture of a headless Nandi is seated. The Mukhamanpada is accessible from all three sides, with balustrade entrances that are towards the east, north, and south. The raw material used for the construction of the temple is ‘chloritic schist’, which is a soft stone in which intricate carvings are possible. As the temple is built facing east, at the crack of dawn, the morning light falls right on the deity. Brass-relief figures of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma are visible on the side panels of the temple. However, the roof is covered with sloping grey slabs of rock. 

The Mukhamanpada is embellished with four carved lathe-turned pillars and Kakshasana on three sides and is externally decorated with rosettes. A scene of an elephant trampling a horse is carved on the eastern pillar, which is a very prominent Kadamba-Yadava symbol. The ceiling is also decorated with intricately carved lotus flowers of the Ashtakon variety. The Antarala and the Garbhagriha of the temple have a remarkable resemblance with the Kalleshwar Temple in Balambid in the Dharwad district and the Jain temples at Belgaum in Karnataka. If one pays attention to detail, one can witness a story of the past unfolding in front of one's eyes through this architectural masterpiece.

During the festival of Mahashivratri, locals and pilgrims worship Lord Shiva and the inner sanctum is decorated with colorful flower garlands. Shiva devotees from all over Goa come to offer prayers and seek blessings. 

The marvellous Tambdi Surla Temple is an ode to Goa's unheard history and is an example of the rich and diverse cultural heritage it holds.