INDIALINE

Ponda

Shantaduga Temple Ponda- Goa

Ponda can otherwise be termed as the `temple town` of Goa as it has a number of unique Hindu temples rebuilt on the original structures that were destroyed by the Portuguese.

Five of Goa`s most important Hindu temples are on the inland route between Panaji and Margao. The Shiva temple of Shri Manguesh is at Priol-Ponda Taluka, about 22 km from Panaji. This tiny 18th century hilltop temple, with its white tower, is a local landmark. Less than 2 km further down the road is Shri Mahalsa, a Vishnu temple.

About 5 km from Ponda are the Shri Ramnath and Shri Manguesh temples, and nearby is the Shri Shantadurga Temple. This temple sports an unusual, almost pagoda-like, structure with a roof made from long slabs of stone.
Further south are the temples of Shri Chandreshwar and Shri Mallikarjuna.

Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

Bondla is the smallest of the Goan wildlife sanctuaries (8 sq km). It is 52 km from Panaji and 38 km from Margao.
A botanical garden, fenced deer park and a zoo constitute this sanctuary. Gaur and Sambar are part of the fauna found here.
Bookings for chalet accommodation should be made in advance at the office of the Department of Forestry in Panaji.

Dudhsagar Falls

Dudhsagar falls is perhaps Goa's most impressive waterfalls. It is situated on the eastern border of Karnataka and Goa.