Excursion Indian temple & spices tour at Mormugao

Travel away from the city and the Portuguese influence with its many churches. Pass through small towns and villages, and feast your eyes on large elegant homes and brilliant green rice paddies. In the lush valleys and forests of Ponda are hidden a number of Hindu temples, built in the 17th and 18th centuries by those who were attempting to practice their traditional religion away from the prying eyes and persecution of the Portuguese.

Goa sightseeing and Goddess of Peace Temple

Visit a temple dedicated to the Goddess Durga, also known as the Goddess of Peace. Considered one of the most important and the largest in Goa, the original temple was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1564 but the idol of the Goddess was taken away to safety and subsequently brought to its present abode. Constructed in 1738 A.D., it is an unusual temple with a pagoda like structure and a roof made up of long slabs of stone. The impressive idol of the Goddess dominates the temple.

Spice Plantation and lunch

Following your visit, a 30-minute drive takes you to a spice plantation for an introduction to Goa's cherished spices. They are an ever present part of daily life and essential in flavouring the distinctive regional cuisine.

Spices are an ever-present part of Indian life - they are essential in flavouring the distinctive regional cuisines and if you keep your eyes open you will see their bright colors reflected in the ladies' saris, and decorative textiles everywhere.

To find out where they come from you will pay a most enjoyable visit to a spice plantation. Take a guided walk through the trees and see what you can identify, smell, taste, and learn about the myriad spices for which India is renowned. And what place could be more perfect for a meal? Enjoy lunch here where everything is fresh and fragrant. Don't worry, the simple, tasty food will be spiced for Western tastes, and the preparation of each will be explained.

After lunch, conclude this delightful outing with the drive back to the port at Mormugao and the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Shanta Durga Temple, Lush Valleys & Forests, Spice Plantation, Lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves moderate walking at the spice plantation. Uneven ground and some inclines require sure-footing and make the tour unsuitable for wheelchairs. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Proper attire is required to visit the temple. Shorts and short skirts are not allowed. Women must have their shoulders covered. Shoes must be removed prior to entering the temple. We suggest bringing along a pair of thick socks because the pavement may be hot. Guests are advised that infrastructure is basic and local conditions may be challenging: coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding.