Panaji or Panjim is the capital of Goa and one of the best places to visit in Goa. It’s on River Mandovi’s southern shores that this stylish city of Goa is nestled. Counted as Goa’s third largest city, it attracts many visitors all round the year.

The bustling city gives visitors ample scope to know Goa'n style of living and their versatile culture and traditions. The riverside promenade offers the perfect spot for viewing Mandovi and its many floating casinos and cruise liners. Evenings are a treat to watch the sunset. 

The Unique Experience

If you love exploring places that have a rich heritage and are famous for their buildings and churches, then Panjim Goa is the perfect spot for you. Panaji as its also called, houses some of the world’s best-maintained Portuguese styled houses, buildings and also boasts of world-renowned churches and temples.

Fun lovers do not lose heart as this place is flooded with loads of leisure activities like walking by the shores of the Miramar Beach as well as gambling at the many flamboyant casinos. Foodies too would find old Goa'n cafes and eateries serving delectable Goa'n baked food as well as world cuisines. 

Legend

Panjim has a legendary connection to King Jayakesi I, the king of the Kadamba Dynasty. According to belief, a stone inscription of Jayakesi mentions the name of Panaji and dates back to 1054 CE. It appears as Panjanakhani in the inscription. King Jayakesi I is therefore nicknamed Padavalendra. However, there is another belief according to which, Panjim traces its name to a Shia Muslim shrine called Panja. This shrine was located on top of a hill. 

More About Panjim Goa

Panjim is the Goa capital, and it attracts visitors to its many wonderful landmarks such as the famous Basilica of Bom Jesus, Fontainhas- the World Heritage site, Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Altino Hill and many other stunning monuments and gardens. The city is located bang on the Miramar Beach that sprawls on 1.25 km of sun-kissed gold-toned sands.

Taking an early morning walk down the beach is the ideal way to kick-start your day followed with a sumptuous English breakfast at one of Panjim’ many old English cafes. 

What else?

The city is also worth visiting during the famous Film Festival of Goa where handpicked movies from all across the planet are showcased.

Panjim beaches

Panjim is a popular place in Goa tour packages, particularly for its beaches. Miramar beach, Caranzalem beach, Dias beach, Odxel beach etc. are some famous beaches of Panjim. 

Panjim markets

Panjim market is known as Panjim New Market. This well-organized market is located near the Inox multiplex.