If you believe that Goa is all about beaches, raves, and seafood huts, here’s a little secret — it isn’t. Nestled deep within the thick forests of the Western Ghats is Tambdi Surla Temple, a 12th-century gem that seems to be stuck in time.
Founded by the Kadamba dynasty, this temple is a centuries-old rarity in terms of ancient craftsmanship surviving to the modern day. It’s serene, it’s tranquil, and it’s the sort of place where nature and history come together in the most enchanting way.
Table of Contents
- Discovering Tambdi Surla: Goa’s Ancient Jewel
- The Story Behind the Tambdi Surla Temple
- Kadamba Craftsmanship: Architecture and Design
- Whispering Woods and a Temple’s Tale
- Wrapping Up
Discovering Tambdi Surla: Goa’s Ancient Jewel
Picture yourself strolling through a forest as dense as the sun only manages to filter through the leaves. You can hear the leaves of trees rustling, the birds singing, and the rumble of a nearby river.
And then, in this tranquil beauty, you find this intricately carved temple made of black stone. That is Tambdi Surla.
Nestled at the foot of the Western Ghats, within the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, the temple seems secluded from the contemporary world. Its isolation is one of the charms about it—it’s one of those few places where time appears to stand still.
If you’re heading there from the city, hiring a taxi service in Goa can make the trip smooth and hassle-free. The route winds through scenic hills and tiny villages, so having a local driver who knows the roads is a big plus.
The Story Behind the Tambdi Surla Temple
Tambdi Surla was constructed in the 12th century during the rule of the Kadamba dynasty, one of the first Hindu kingdoms of Goa. Historians are convinced that it might have been ordered by Queen Kamladevi.
The temple is of Lord Shiva and was constructed solely using black basalt rock imported from the Deccan plateau—a feat given the tools and transportation available at the time. What is more intriguing about Tambdi Surla is its history of survival.
When most temples in Goa were razed during the Goa Inquisition, this temple was spared, simply because of its isolation deep within the forest. For centuries, it silently stood here, not bothered by invaders and resilient against the march of time.
Even today, travelling to this remote site feels like stepping back in time, and many visitors prefer to hire a car on rent in Goa to navigate the winding forest roads comfortably.
Kadamba Craftsmanship: Architecture and Design
Though small in size, the temple is a masterpiece of stone carving. Every surface has a story to tell—whether it’s floral patterns, mythological figures, or scenes from sacred texts.
Some of its most striking features include:
- Raised Platform: The temple sits on a plinth, giving it an elevated and prominent look.
- Shikhara (Tower): A modest yet elegant pyramidal tower rises above the sanctum.
- Mandapa (Hall): Supported by four pillars, the base of one depicting the Kadamba emblem of an elephant trampling a horse. Above, chains, rosettes, and a finely sculpted octagonal lotus pattern grace the ceiling.
- Garbhagriha (Inner Sanctum): Houses the Shiva linga, perfectly aligned so the first morning sunlight touches it.
- Nandi Statue: The stone bull facing the sanctum, now missing its head, adds a touch of mystery to local legends.
The walls depict gods like Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, alongside their consorts. Even after centuries, the carvings remain crisp, showing the skill and dedication of the artisans who built it.
Since the roads are narrow and twisty, using ataxi service in Goa can save you the trouble of navigating unfamiliar routes.
Whispering Woods and a Temple’s Tale
Tambdi Surla isn’t just a monument—it’s part of the living landscape. Locals tell stories of a giant king cobra that guards the temple. Whether myth or reality, it adds to the temple’s mystique.
Nearby flows the Surla River, and during the monsoons, the Tambdi Surla Waterfall comes alive, making it an excellent spot for short treks and photography. Being inside a wildlife sanctuary, the area is home to leopards, deer, exotic birds, and rare plants.
If you want to enjoy the natural beauty around you at your own pace, booking a car on rent in Goa gives you the freedom to plan your own journey and stop wherever the view captivates you.
Wrapping Up
While most visitors think of Goa as beaches, forts, and churches, Tambdi Surla offers a completely different perspective. It’s a reminder of Goa’s old history—a place where art, faith, and nature come together perfectly.
Exploring treasures like this is even easier with Savaari Car Rentals, which provides reliable and premium intercity and local car rental services to help you discover not just the famous spots, but also these hidden wonders that make Goa unforgettable.