Ponda is located in central Goa and about 29 kms southeast of Panaji. Most of the areas of Ponda were originally part of the Quela Village. It is a busy inland town that is of little interest to most travelers, but there are a number of unique Hindu temples in the surrounding area, and several spice plantations that make for an interesting day of sightseeing. Most of these Hindu temples were rebuilt from originals that were destroyed by the Portuguese in the 18th century and their lamp towers represent a distinctive Goan feature. Ponda is one of the few areas of Goa with a predominantly Hindu culture and population.

Ponda can be described as the Hindu heart of Goa. It is famous for the five important temples that are situated around the town, and also has the largest mosque in Goa. Most of these temples look relatively new as they have been restored after being destroyed by the Portuguese. That explains why there are no temples around the coast, which was the prime territory of the Portuguese. Ponda is also an important transport link.

The city of Ponda lies about 28kms south-east of Panaji and 17kms north-east of Margao and is also the capital of Ponda Taluka.

The town was born after the Portuguese took over the area in 1791 from the Raja of Sonda and annexed it along with Quepem, Canacona and Sanguem forming the New Conquests.

Ponda is connected to state capital Panaji (28 km) by the National Highway 4A. The NH 4A also connects Ponda to the neighboring state of Karnataka. Buses ply regularly between Panaji and Margao via Ponda.

The Margao (17 km) railway station is the nearest railhead to Ponda.

The Dabolim airport is the nearest airport to Ponda.

One of the 27 mosques built in Ponda in 1560 by Ibrahim Adil Shah, this mosque was once surrounded by gardens and fountains. However, not much is left of its former grandeur.

The Chapel, built by the Portuguese in Ward 8, was used for the battalion stationed there. Neat and elegant, the chapel's altars are of dark, carved wood. The Indian Army is now using the barracks.

The Miraculous Cross, also called "Goddar", is located opposite the police station. It is the venue for the Feast of the Holy Cross, held every year on May 3. People from different communities and religious groups attend the feast.

There are many temples around Ponda. Some of the leading temples worth visiting are: Mangueshi Temple, Mahalsa Temple, Shantadurga Temple, Nagueshi Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple and Kamaxi temple.