The Chandreshwar Bhoothnath Temple is located on the Chandranath Hill near Paroda village, in Quepem taluk of South Goa. It is about 14 km from Margao, the commercial hub of South Goa. The hill rises nearly 350 meters above sea level, and from the top, one can enjoy breathtaking views of the Goan coastline, rivers, and thick forests. The temple is well connected by road, and vehicles can go almost to the top of the hill, after which a short climb leads to the shrine.
This temple is considered to be one of the oldest temples in Goa, with origins that go back more than 2500 years. Historical records indicate that it was an important center of Shaivism during the Kadamba dynasty period (10th–14th century CE). The temple has been the Kuladevata (family deity) of many Goan Brahmin families, especially the Goud Saraswat Brahmins, since ancient times.
Even today, several Goan families settled outside the state return here every year to pay respects to their ancestral deity. The temple’s uniqueness lies in its dual worship of Chandreshwar (Lord of the Moon) and Bhoothnath (Lord of Ghosts and Spirits) – both being powerful aspects of Lord Shiva.
The presiding deity here is Lord Chandreshwar (Chandranath), a form of Lord Shiva connected with the Moon God, Chandra. The name Chandreshwar itself means “Lord of the Moon.” The sanctum houses a Shivalinga, which is believed to have special powers. On full moon nights, the moonlight directly falls on the linga, causing it to shine with a silvery glow – a phenomenon that devotees regard as divine.
Alongside Chandreshwar, the temple also honors Lord Bhoothnath, another aspect of Shiva who is worshipped as the Lord of Spirits and Beings. This dual form represents Shiva as both the calm protector and the fierce ruler of the seen and unseen worlds. A majestic Nandi (the bull mount of Shiva) faces the sanctum, reinforcing the sacred Shaiva tradition.
The temple reflects traditional Goan temple architecture. It has sloping tiled roofs, whitewashed walls, and colorful interiors that stand out against the greenery of the hill. A tall Deepastambha (lamp tower) greets devotees at the entrance.
The sanctum is simple but spiritually powerful. The Shivalinga of Chandreshwar glows with moonlight during Pournima nights, while Bhoothnath’s shrine adds to the temple’s fierce and mystical aura. The complex is surrounded by smaller shrines and thick forest, creating a serene and devotional atmosphere.
The temple’s origins go back to pre-Portuguese Goa, when the Kadamba kings made it one of the key Shaiva shrines of their kingdom. Some traditions say its sanctity dates back to the pre-Christian era, nearly 2500 years ago.
Unlike many Goan temples destroyed or relocated during Portuguese rule, Chandreshwar Bhoothnath survived due to its remote hilltop location which is 350 meters above sea level. The temple continued to be a gathering place for Goan Hindus, especially during major festivals. To this day, it retains its status as a powerful center of faith.
Sthalapurana of Chandreshwar Bhoothnath Temple is centered on the story of the Moon God, Chandra.
Once, King Daksha, who disliked his son-in-law Shiva, cursed Chandra (the Moon God) to gradually lose his radiance and vanish into darkness. The curse caused Chandra’s luster to wane day by day, creating great distress for the gods and sages, since the moonlight was vital for life on earth.
Desperate to free himself, Chandra came to the Chandranath Hill in Goa. Here, he performed severe penance to Lord Shiva, meditating for years with deep devotion. Pleased by his prayers, Lord Shiva appeared before Chandra and blessed him. Shiva partially lifted the curse – allowing Chandra to wax and wane in cycles instead of disappearing completely. This is how the lunar cycle of bright and dark fortnights came into existence.
Lord Shiva also granted Chandra the boon that he would forever shine his blessings upon devotees who worship at this hill. From then on, Shiva came to be known here as Chandreshwar – the Lord of the Moon.
Alongside, Shiva manifested as Bhoothnath, the master of spirits, symbolizing his role as the universal controller of all beings – seen and unseen. Devotees believe that worshipping at this temple removes Chandra dosha (afflictions caused by the moon in astrology), cures mental unrest, and brings peace and prosperity.
The temple celebrates several special occasions throughout the year. Every full moon night, devotees gather to witness the moonlight illuminating the Shivalinga, creating a rare and divine experience. Mahashivaratri is the biggest festival, marked by all-night bhajans, abhishekams, and special rituals, attracting thousands of devotees. Mondays are observed with weekly prayers and abhishekams, as the day is sacred to Lord Shiva. The temple also hosts an annual Jatra (temple fair), drawing devotees from Goa and neighboring states to honor Chandreshwar and Bhoothnath.
