Spice plantations and Temples of Goa

Visit selected Goa temples located in Ponda and surrounding villages. Mahalsa Temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalsa, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is augmented by a 6-story Deepstambha, an ornate lamp post that is lit on special occasions. On the way to the temple, take a short walk through the Goan village. Visit the Mangueshi temple dedicated to Lord Mangueshi, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The architecture reflects a mix of Hindu, Christian and Muslim construction styles. These temples were originally located in various villages and were secretly moved to their present locations and re-settled in their current locations due to the threat of persecution by the Portuguese rulers. Drive to a spice plantation for a tour of organically grown spices. Spices grown here include vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, pepper, cloves, curry leaves and ginger. In addition, there are also medicinal plants and fruit trees. After returning from the spice tour, you can enjoy a traditional Goan lunch, served at the farm itself. You can also purchase spices, cashew nuts and momnetos, all produced on the farm itself.