Shri Shanta Durga Temple

The Shanta Durga Temple stands at Kavalem in Ponda and dates from the 18th century. It is dedicated to Shanta Durga, a calm form of the goddess Durga, whose idol is placed between Shiva and Vishnu; in the legend she steps in to end a quarrel between the two gods and restore balance. The deity is believed to have been worshipped first at Cavelossim in Salcete and brought to Kavalem after the Portuguese destroyed temples there to build churches.

Carvings at the entrance show scenes from Hindu mythology. Inside is a large courtyard ringed by small shrines to other deities, with the main sanctum hall at its centre. The design combines Hindu and Portuguese elements.