Panaji, a vibrant but tiny city, is the capital of Goa. Also renowned as Panjim, is a town utterly unique in India. This old Portuguese town has colorful buildings, Baroque architecture, beautiful villas, narrow streets, colorful markets and broad Mandovi river that makes is an indisputable attraction of Goa. The city immaculately preserve the old Portuguese ambiance. Panaji has an ancient history, dated back from 1007 AD. It was originally a neglected ward of Taleigao village. Later on, it became an important Konkani port walled by hill fort and marshes. After Portuguese occupation, Panaji changed to Panjim and 1843 it was rewarded as the state capital. In Portuguese era, Panaji got maximum impetus. They cleared the marshes and erected public buildings. Though old Goa is much nostalgic but Panaji has the cheerful environment and laid back atmosphere, which beckons travelers from around the globe.



Portuguese impact still lingering in Panaji that shows in dresses and architecture of building and houses. The famous fish market is a good place to observe the lifestyle and culture of people. Panaji is also renowned as the cultural capital of Goa as the rich Goa culture is prominently visible in this small city. Also Panaji afford to have best hotels and shopping plazas, in addition there are number of colleges and institutes located here. To savor the cultural flavor, The Kala Academy and number of theater complexes are built in the middle of the city.

Sights And Activities

Church Of Our Lady Of The Immaculate Conception
The city's probably prime attraction, is located at the center. The church was originally ordained in 1541. This stunningly whitewashed church was the main visiting place for the sailors who came from the voyages from Lisbon before heading toward Old Goa. Mass is held here daily in English, Konkani and Portuguese.

Goa State Museum
This unusually large museum is located in a lonely area southwest of the Kadamba bus stand. The collections are from different era, starting from Hindu, Jain and Christian. There are Hindu and Jain bronze sculptures and paintings from all over India. There is an elaborate carved table used in the Goa inquisition. A small gallery is dedicated to wildlife conservation.
Secretariat Building
Originally the palace of Muslim ruler Adil Shah in the 16th century and later on converted to viceroy's official residence. To the west a freaky statue of a man strangle a woman. The woman name is Abbe Faria, a famous hypnotist and assistant of the man.

Institute Menzes Braganza
The institute houses Panaji Central Library and a nice palce to visit the beautiful blue and white ceramic tile compositions in the entrance hall.

Public Observatory
The observatory is located on the rooftop of Junta House.

Miramar
This is an enthralling beach, located 3km southwest of the city along the Dayanand Bandodkar Marg. The beach is a nice place for a sunset stroll and short bike ride out of the city. Goa Marriot Resort is located on the way to Miramar where you will find Barracuda Diving, one of the state most professional diving cooperation.

Walking Tour
Walking down the city is also a very good option to see the unseen attractions. Start from the main church of the city, crossing the Maruti Temple, Bishop Palace, Chapel of St. Sebastian and finally the strange flower and star coated Crucifix built into a wall on the right, back to where you started at Church Square.