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The deity might have been worshiped by the copper-smiths (Kansars) of the village originally. The folk tradition believes that this temple might have been constructed during the Chandragupta Vikramaditya’s time. A Copper-plate or tambiapotto (in Konkani) dated 1436 AD, which is in the possession of the Archaeology department of Goa, mentions among various other things the following: ... The Brahmin Devasharma of Kashyapa Gotra, hailing from the region bathed by river Janhavi, fleeing from the invasion of the Turukshas(Muslims), came to Konkan...being always honored by the King of the Konkan.. ...His descendant Nagadeva, a worshiper of Shiva went to Palika(Kasarpal)and in presence of Mahajanas, and the copper-smiths of the village, gave on the first day of the month Chaitra of Shri Nala of shalivahana era 1358, the village of Varandem(which includes Kasarpal) as normoxia(gift)to the son of Rupa sheti, named Lakshman Sheti, who was born by the grace of Devi. Kalamba seems to be another name of the deity though, the name Kalika appears in the copper-plate inscription mentioned above. During Goa Inquisition, when Goa was in turmoil, most of the people of Daivajna caste took refuge in the temple premises to elude conversion to Roman Catholicism and prosecution.

The temple is a masterpiece of Goan temple architecture, with a huge hall for public gatherings during festivals and meetings (Sabhamantapa a stage and a Nagarkhana which is above the stage is used to play drums and shehnai during specific times of the day and during specific rituals), the main hall inside the temple (Chowk), path for circumambulation (Sarwali) and Sanctum sanctorum (Garbhakud or Garbhagruha), with a huge golden Kalasha. Temple is surrounded by Agrashalas, two beautiful gates (Praveshdwaras) and a magnificent lamp tower (Deepastambha) is eye-catching

The main idol in the sanctum sanctorum is more than 800 years old and is a masterpiece of Kadamba sculptures. The deity is four armed, shows each hand carrying variously a sword (Khadga), a trident (trishul), a Shield (Khetaka) and a skull bowl (Kapala), her mount lion, can be seen at her feet.