Village Panchayat Curtorim

About Curtorim

Curtorim, known as the Granary of Goa, is a scenic and culturally rich village in South Goa. With roots tracing back over a thousand years, it was once a Brahmin settlement (agrahara) during the Kadamba dynasty, as mentioned in 11th-century copper plate inscriptions. The village’s name likely derives from the ancient storage rooms (kudds) used by farmers near riverbanks (todd).

Today, Curtorim is renowned for its lush paddy fields, serene lakes, and strong agricultural traditions. It is home to one of Goa’s oldest churches — St. Alex Church (1597) — built on the site of a former Hindu temple. Despite centuries of change, Curtorim continues to celebrate its vibrant blend of history, nature, and community spirit.

Nature & Scenery

    1. Raitollem Lake — a calm freshwater lake, very scenic. Great for nature walks, bird‑watching, photography, especially early morning or around sunset.

    1. Curtorim Lake — right next to St. Alex Church. Quiet place; good for relaxing by the water and observing birds.

    1. The Khazans (wetlands along the River Zuari) — these coastal marshlands are beautiful and rich in biodiversity. You’ll see traditional aquaculture, mangroves, lots of birds.

    1. Other Lakes & Ponds — Curtorim has several lakes: Angdi Tollem, Mai Tollem, Sonbem Tollem, Colamb Tollem, Gud Tollem, Raloi Tollem etc. Many of these are included in the proposed Biodiversity Heritage Site.

       

      Heritage & Religious Sites

      1. St. Alex Church — built in 1597 on the banks of Angoddi Tollem. The church is built on the site of a former Hindu temple to Ravalnath. Very picturesque, especially when viewed with the lake in front.
      2. Shri Ayyappa Swami Temple — in Vagulem (a ward of Curtorim). For those interested in Hindu temples and spiritual ambience
      3. Bird Watching & Biodiversity Heritage Site Areas — As Curtorim has been declared (or is being formally declared) a biodiversity heritage zone, many areas around lakes, wetlands, springs, khazans are interesting to explore — lots of bird life, traditional lands and ecosystems.
      4. Walking & Village Lanes — The fields, hamlets, old Goan homes in Curtorim are charming. If you stroll through the wards and by the lakes, you’ll get a feel for the local agricultural way of life.