Sights of Panaji: list, photos and descriptions. What to see in the capital of Goa, Panaji? Independently from Goa to Panaji

Despite the fact that Panaji is the capital of the Indian state of Goa, it is only the third city in terms of population. The first mention of this settlement dates back to 1107. Tourists who have visited Panaji in Goa talk about the city as a mix of different faiths and cultures.

Panaji on the map of India and Goa

Panaji- a city with a long history. During colonial times, it was the administrative center of Portuguese India.

The city of Panaji became part of the state of India along with the state of Goa in 1961.

Where is?

How to get there?

The flight distance from Panaji is 5429 km. Travel time is 7 hours 22 minutes. The closest airport to Panaji is Dabolim Airport, located in the suburb of Vasco da Gama. The distance to it from the state capital is 35 km.

You can get to Panaji from the airport by taxi or government bus.

There is a railway station in the east of the city Karmali. Even though Panaji is the capital of Goa, not all trains stop at the railway station. The state's central railway hub, Madgaon, is 35 km from Panaji.

From the nearest cities to Panaji, people most often travel by taxi or bus. The roads in Goa are in fairly good condition. Driving distance from Panaji:

1. before Candolimah- 10 km;
2. up to - 28.2 km.

To travel around the state, you can rent a car, motorcycle or moped in Panaji. One of the closest resorts to Panaji, popular among foreign tourists, Calangute, is located 12 km from the state capital. There is a bus service between the cities. By taxi you can get to Calangute from Panaji in 10-15 minutes.

Photos and description of the resort

Tourists visiting Panaji can communicate in the city in English and Portuguese. You can pay in the city in Indian rupees and US dollars.

General information

The population of the city and its suburbs is slightly more than 100 thousand people. This is a small town with houses covered with red tiles. The oldest quarter of the capital - Fontaines. The area of ​​the city is 36 square meters. km. It has a European layout. The city has wide avenues and stone-paved streets.

The history of the city is closely connected with the Viceroy Manuel of Portugal. During his reign, Panaji became the capital of Goa for the first time.

Such an event happened to him three times in the history of the city. The last time this happened was in 1987.

Weather

The city is included in the zone tropical monsoon climate. It is characterized by hot summers and moderately warm winters. The high season in Goa is March, April and. The average daytime air temperature at the resort during this period is +32°C. In December-February, the thermometer drops during the day to +20-28°C.

Monsoon season at the resort lasts from July to September. This is the worst holiday period on the coast. During this time, Goa receives the highest rainfall. The best holiday period in Panaji lasts from October to March. After the rainy season preceding this period, warm, dry weather sets in at the resort for a long time.

Infrastructure

Foreign tourists who come to Panaji do not experience problems with telephone and internet. There are international cellular providers and a city operator in the city, and there is a post office. Available internet can be used in numerous city cafes.

Public transport In the capital of Goa, it is represented by buses, taxis and rickshaws.

Read also in what documents are needed to travel to Goa.

The biggest market The city is located in its western part. It is a two-story building. In terms of the quantity and variety of goods presented, the capital's market can be compared with the famous bazaar in Mapusa. The ground floor of the Panaji market sells fish caught from the local river. Here you can also buy fruits, vegetables and the famous Indian tea.

Prices for goods in Goa markets at night are much lower than during the day. Many tourists, knowing this, travel from Panaji to shopping V:

• Anjuna;
• Arpora;
• Baku.

These resorts employ night shops and markets. Special buses run from Panaji to the market and shops. Prices for goods in the shopping district of Panaji for world brands are cheaper than in the resorts of Goa, but in Calangute there is a richer selection of products from Tibetan craftsmen.

Features of the local market are fire shows and concerts, which are periodically held on it. This helps traders attract attention to the foreign tourist market. There is a small café located in the market where you can try local cuisine.

The Panaji market is not the only place of lively trade. There are a large number of shops in the city. Wardrobe items, jewelry and much more can be purchased at stores:

1. Fabindia;
2. Bombay Stores;
3. Fusion Access.

There are also shops of famous international brands in the city. The best cafes and restaurants in the city are located on the city embankment. She has an absolutely European look.

Tourism

Panaji is great for family vacation. The quiet, cozy city has an attractive appearance and well-maintained beaches.

Hotels

At the resort you can find accommodation that suits various financial capabilities. The service of most hotels corresponds to 2 and 3 stars.

The rooms of hotels of this level have fans; in more comfortable hotels the rooms are equipped with air conditioning.

Among the most popular among foreign tourists city ​​hotels:

• Vivanta by Taj Panaji 5*. Modern hotel located in the city center. The hotel offers panoramic views of the Mandovi River. The hotel features a rooftop pool, spa and free parking;
• The Crown Goa 4*. The hotel is located 20 km from Thivim Railway Station, 1 km from Panjim Bus Stop and 33 km from Dabolim Airport. The Goa Water Sports Center is located next to the hotel.

There is an opportunity to rent in the city bungalow on the coast. It is better to book holiday accommodation during the high season in advance.

You can make a hotel room reservation using this search form. Enter city, check-in and check-out dates, and number of guests.

Beaches

The resort of Panaji has sandy beaches with well-developed infrastructure. Each of the beaches has its own history, which can be learned from any local resident.

Among best beaches:

1. beach Vainguinim. It is surrounded by orchards. The beach was first used by the Jesuits in the 16th century. Near the beach is the fashionable hotel Cidade de Goa.
2. beach Miramar. The most popular. The coastline of the beach is covered with silver sand.
3. beach Dona Paula. Dangerous place for divers.

All beaches have cafes and bars. Tourists are offered various water activities.

Entertainment and attractions

The main entertainment at the resort is beach holiday. Casinos on ships are open for gambling lovers. The city has many cafes, restaurants and bars, there are nightclubs and a cinema.

There are a large number of places worth seeing in Panaji and its surrounding areas. You can book a tour at any travel agency in the city.

One of the most popular activities at the resort is shore fishing.

Among the most famous local attractions are Mahalakshmi temple. The small structure was erected in honor of the Indian Goddess of Strength. Tourists are interested in the architectural appearance of the building. A spire rises above the red tiled roof of the temple. On the sides of the building are iconic sculptures of monkeys. The building was erected on the site of the sanctuary at the beginning of the 19th century.

Almost all excursion routes includes visit:

• Chorao Islands. There is a bird sanctuary on it. You can get to the island by free ferry from Ribandar or Old Goa. The island has buildings of interest to tourists - the Church of the Immaculate Conception and the architectural complex of Largo da Igreja.
• Hindu temple Maruti. The building is painted orange and has several tiers. The temple is located on the eastern side of Altino Hill.
• Hindu Lakshmi Temple. The most crowded place in the city. Every day people in need of help gather in the temple. They come here for food, which is distributed free of charge in the temple.

The city has museums and art galleries, where you can see the works of local artists.

Look video about the capital of Goa - Panaji:

One of the most atmospheric capitals of the Indian state, Panji boasts incredible views of the wide Mandovi River. From the bustling city center to grand colonial buildings, from art boutiques to modern shopping malls, from the old Latin Quarter to lively narrow streets lined with cozy cafes, Panaji has a lot to see and do. This town will not leave even the most experienced tourist indifferent.

The compulsory program of everyone who comes to Panaji should include the following attractions:

The spiritual as well as the geographical center of Panaji is the lofty, pearl-white church, built in 1619 on the site of an older, smaller chapel from 1540. Its structure resembles a fancy white wedding cake.

When Panaji was an ordinary fishing village, this church was the first place where sailors arriving from Lisbon went. They were on their way here to thank the Virgin Mary for their safe journey. The church is worth visiting in the evening, at which time it is brightly lit.

Location: Rua Emidio Garci.

Well known to tourists, this small eatery, housed in an old Portuguese house, continues to impress everyone with the best of Goan food at reasonable prices.

The menu has an entire page dedicated to pork dishes, and you can try delicious hasuti (spicy chicken or meat plate cooked in red coconut sauce), seafood and desserts such as "bebinca" (a dessert made from egg yolk and coconut) .

When planning a trip to Altinho Hill, it is worth visiting this cafe-gallery in a Portuguese oasis of fragrant lavender and architectural beauty on the grounds of the Sunaparanta Arts Center. Here you can enjoy good coffee, juices and freshly baked pies.

Location: Sunaparanta Center For The Arts, 63/C-8, Altinho.

The oldest, and by far the most atmospheric area, crowded with Portuguese, is sandwiched between the hills of Altinho and the banks of Ourem Creek. This is the best place for an evening stroll through the narrow streets, where Mediterranean notes and influences from the past can still be felt.

The interior resembles a cozy English pub. In the evenings, young people come here; this is where the best and loudest parties are held. Customers are attracted by the new ordering system. Each table has its own “beer tap” and a touch screen menu: the client buys a card (₹ 500), swipes it without leaving the table and immediately receives the selected drink. The card can be used for spirits, cocktails or food.

Location: A-6, Skylark Apartments, M.B. Road.

The eatery is located just opposite the Old Patto Bridge. It is distinguished by American style and cuisine. Here you can enjoy hot dogs, hamburgers, chili cheese and pizza.

On the hillside above Panaji lies the residential area of ​​Altino. Besides good views of the city and river, the main attraction of this place is the Bishop's Palace, a building built in 1893. The Archbishop of Goa arrived in Panaji in the early 20th century, laying claim to a luxurious residence at Cabo Raj Bhavan. But she was occupied by the Portuguese Governor-General. Therefore, the archbishop was forced to change his plans and settle in this palace.

The Pope visited the Bishop's Palace during his visit to Goa in 1999. Currently it is used for government affairs and official meetings.

This spacious museum to the east of the city displays an eclectic, extensive collection of objects that have been collected throughout Goa's long history. In addition to fine Hindu and Jain sculptures and bronze jewelry, there are fine examples of Portuguese-era furniture, coins, an intricately carved chariot and fancy antique cars.

The most interesting exhibit is in the furniture room: an elaborately carved table and high-backed chairs used by the Portuguese Inquisition in Goa during the Portuguese rule. The table legs feature carved lions and an eagle on one side, and four people on the other.

The state-of-the-art new Panaji State Library, next to the State Museum, has six floors of reading space, a bookshop and a gallery. On the second floor there is a children's book section and an internet club (free, but technically only for academic research). The fourth floor has books on Goan history and the sixth floor has a large collection of Portuguese books.

Deltin JAQK has three floors with 50 tables. To enter, you need to buy gaming chips ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 with a premium ticket. The dining room serves a sumptuous buffet and offers live entertainment from 9 pm. All tickets include free drinks until midnight.

Location: Dayanand Bandodkar Road, Fisheries Jetty.

On the western side of the city, Kampala is Goa's main cultural centre, which hosts a program of dance, theatre, music and art exhibitions and performances throughout the year. Many concerts and plays are performed in Konkani, the local language, but there are also English options.

Location: Dayanand Bandodkar.

Goa's largest and most luxurious casino, Deltin Royal, has 123 tables, a Vegas restaurant and a bar. Gaming chips worth ₹2,000/₹3,000 are required to be purchased upon entry on weekdays/weekends respectively. Unlimited free cocktails are included in the premium package.

Location: Noah's Ark, RND Jetty.

This bar/restaurant's wide balcony overlooks the creek and the Old Patto Bridge, making it a cozy place to relax. The bar on the ground floor (open from 18:00) is the only place to enjoy the nightlife of the city's old quarter, with occasional live music performances.

A must-see when exploring the Fontentes area, this vibrant gallery displays works by local and international artists. The gallery also functions as an art studio, and hosts special exhibitions, workshops and art classes throughout the year.

Khadi India

The only outpost of Goa that has a wonderful range of authentic cotton fabrics, oils, soaps, spices and other handicrafts. They come straight from neighboring villages.

On the corner opposite the main church of Panaji, this book house has an excellent selection of international magazines and newspapers, as well as many books on Goan history.

Location: Praça da Igreja, Church Square, Altinho, Panjim.

Near the Secretariat building, it is worth paying attention to the nearby black statue of a man with outstretched hands, towering over a frightened woman. This is a statue Abbe Faria, considered the "father of the theory of hypnosis", a contemporary of Franz Mesmer (where the term "mesmerism" comes from) and a native of Goa.

He was born in Candolim in 1757. Abbe Faria is one of the most mysterious figures in history, who was involved in the greatest events of the 18th century. He interacted closely with many of the key figures of this time: the Portuguese royal family, Robespierre, Marie Antoinette and Napoleon. It was he who laid the foundation for the development of modern hypnosis, an unknown “science” at that time.

The yellow and white building of the Menese Bragança Institute occupies part of the old buildings that were once the headquarters of the Portuguese army.

It's worth peeking into the northeast wing to admire the grand azulejos (traditional blue-and-white painted ceramic tiles) decorating a wall depicting scenes from Os Lusíadas, the famous epic Portuguese poem by Luis Vaz de Camoes.

Location: Central Library, next to the police station.

The Fontentes area is notable for being home to the beautiful Chapel of St. Sebastian, built in 1818. This small whitewashed church contains one of the few relics that remains from the Inquisition in Goa, a striking crucifix. It was originally located in the Palace of the Inquisition in Old Goa. The unusual open eyes of Christ are said to have been designed to strike fear into the hearts of heretics.

To the west of the Municipal Gardens is Azad Maidan. The centerpiece of the site is a small pavilion which houses a modern sculpture dedicated to freedom fighter and “father of Goan nationalism” Tristao de Braganza Cunha.

Miramar area.

Panaji or Panjim is the capital of the Indian state of Goa. This is a relatively large city; in size I would compare it with Minsk. Quieter than any of the communities to the north of the state, it is home to wealthy locals and numerous students who come to study primarily English. The city does not look exactly like India; in places it is absolutely Portuguese and European. And what about the stunning embankment with pedestrian paths, summer cafes and large ships with casinos.

While in Goa, getting to Panaji is easy - buses run daily to both ends of the state - from Mapusa, Vasco de Gama, Margao. The journey takes from an hour to an hour and a half, the cost of the most expensive ticket is 40 rupees (100 rupees - 89 rubles). And this is on an air-conditioned bus.

The nearest airport is in Dubolim. You can also get there by taxi or bus.

I ended up in Panaji at the end of the season in Goa, when there is almost nothing to do on the beaches due to the heat and too warm water, and people are gradually going home.

Housing

Once again, I was very lucky, because when I arrived, my friends had already been renting the second floor of the house there for several months. We had our own staircase and a separate entrance (actually, two), three spacious rooms - one with its own bathroom, an additional entrance door and a small kitchen, a huge kitchen and a spacious lounge with a balcony. For all this splendor, the six of us paid 15,000 Indian rupees.

The owner's family lived on the first floor and did not cause any trouble at all. The owner himself, an Indian in his 50s who worked in Arab countries for 20 years, periodically came to visit us and often told fascinating stories about Goa, what it was like in the 60s and 70s, when the first hippies first appeared here.

Utility bills were not included in the payment. But several times a week the owner’s daughter came to us to clean, for which the guys paid her about 3,000 rupees. Internet was also included in the price, although it did not always work well, probably because too many people were using it at the same time for the speed to be fast enough.

Products

The food story in Panaji was interesting, because we ate at home extremely rarely. When I moved to the capital of Goa, it was the end of April - this is the last month before the rainy season, when the weather is as hot and sultry as possible, so much so that you don’t want to go outside again, which greatly changed my daily routine. With such a climate, it is much more comfortable to go to bed in the morning and wake up around 3 pm, when there are only 1-2 hours left before the heat subsides.

All the food you want at such a time is water, maybe some fruit. It is best to buy vegetables, fruits and meat near the bus station or at the Panaji market - these are the busiest places in the city. The market is located in a two-story building, on the ground floor - products (fruits, vegetables, spices, meat, tea, local fish). On the second floor there are clothes, equipment, various workshops for repairing phones, equipment.

We bought everything else at the supermarket or simply ate out. In India, this is inexpensive, but it eliminates the need to cook and wash dishes.

Prices in Panaji are not much different from the cost of food in other places in Goa:

• milk in half-liter bags - 20 rupees;
• yoghurts, curd, dahi (something akin to both sour cream and kefir) - 15-10 rupees;
• rice - 60-100 rupees/kg;
• shrimp - depending on the variety from 300 to 600 rupees/kg;
• chicken - 100 rupees/kg;
• fish - from 300-400 rupees/kg (depending on the variety and bargaining ability).

You can buy fish in Panaji cheaper than in tourist areas. The easiest time to negotiate the most reasonable price is in the evening. It is not customary to freeze food here and a new catch will arrive in the morning, so leftovers can be purchased at a very reasonable price.

With air temperatures constantly exceeding 30 degrees, fresh vegetables, fruits and juices are exactly what allows you not to die of hunger and not feel heavy. The price is reasonable, especially considering their freshness and range:

• pineapple - 70 rupees/piece;
• watermelon - 20 rupees/kg;
• grapes - 80-100 rupees/kg;
• pomegranates - 100-150 rupees/kg;
• potatoes - 15-20 rupees/kg;
• coconut - 40 rupees/piece;
• tangerines - 50-60 rupees/kg;
• papaya - 50 rupees/kg;
• apples - 80-150 rupees/kg;
• greens - 20 rupees/bunch;
• tomatoes - 20 rupees/kg.

It is better to buy alcohol and cigarettes in stores, where they have a fixed price. Local strong drinks are presented:

• Old Monk rum - sold exclusively in Goa, loved by both Indians and foreigners for its decent taste in relation to the cost - 45 rupees / 250 ml;
• Kingfisher beer - a local brand with a bird on the label - 70 rupees/0.5 l;
• feni (vodka made from cashews or coconuts).

Cafes and restaurants

Panaji looks a lot like a European city and, along with typical Indian casual cafes and restaurants, you can find brands like KFS, Cofee Day, Macdonalds, Subway.

By the way, about the last two. I know that McDonald's has launched a vegetarian menu specifically for India. And you can eat not only versions of all (!) burgers without meat, but for example, with soy, lentils, mixed vegetables, paneer, falafel, etc., but they will also be seasoned with Indian spices and prepared according to recipes adapted to India. So Subway in Panaji will be completely different from in Moscow or Kyiv, for example. The cost there is more expensive than regular cafes - half a burger will cost about 150 rupees, a whole one 300-350.

Ritz Classic Restorant and Bar - I had perhaps the best fish thali of my life at this place. The cost is 130-140 rupees (depending on the fish chosen), which is a little more expensive than eating in classic Indian cafes. But the portion is simply gigantic, and there is really a lot of fish in it, and along with it vegetable stew, salad, mussels in curry, rice, flatbreads, Indian spicy pickle (vegetables salted in a special way in an extremely salty and spicy sauce). In this case, everything (except fish) can be requested additionally. It's free. Thali should be served as it should be. The cafe is located on Ozari road.

Mojo Club is one of two clubs you can go to at night. Popular music. The interior is more reminiscent of an English pub. People often gather here to watch football matches. In addition to the disco, you can play billiards and table football. An additional plus is that the air conditioning is very good, so sometimes it’s even a little cold inside. Food is relatively expensive for India. So, a plate of fish and chips will cost about 300 rupees. Beer, rum, fisk with juice or cola - 150 rupees.

Things to do?

Panaji is quite a diverse, although small and calm city. Here you can look at the Portuguese buildings and stroll through the Latin quarters. At the same time, the city has a large number of modern buildings, shops, and cinemas.

One of the most picturesque places is the Hanuman temple, which is located on a hill. The architecture will be interesting, but besides this, you can admire the picturesque surroundings of the city.

Another temple looks even more majestic, but this time Catholic. The Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, like all Christian churches in Goa, is snow-white with the same dazzling white bell on top. Built in Baroque style in the 16th century. Nearby there are small bright houses, as well as many cafes where you can take a break for masala tea on a hot day.

Be sure to see the statue of Abbot Fai, which is considered the symbol of the capital of Goa. It depicts a man stretching his arms over a woman. The abbot was one of the first to study hypnosis, which is not very common for a priest.

If you are interested in the history and culture of Goa, you can visit the state cultural museum, which is located in Panaji. There are constantly about 15 different exhibitions dedicated to the history and culture of the state. There you can also look at examples of Portuguese culture found during excavations. This is one of the reasons. Why is Goa so different from other Indian states, because unlike other territories, Goa was a Portuguese and not a British colony until the middle of the last century. The museum is free to everyone and is located among modern business buildings. Located near the bus station.

In the evening it is very pleasant to walk along the embankment near the river. Casino visitors can go on one of the constantly cruising ships. You will have to pay for entry (about 3,000 rupees) or you can also enter by invitation. Casinos are prohibited in India and this is practically the only way to organize this kind of business.

The main beach of Panaji is Miramar. It is quite long, and weekends are busy as the local population gets out into nature. The water is relatively clear, but you can see barges floating not too far from the shore. Due to the number of people, the beach is not as cozy as, for example, Dona Paula beach, which is visited by fewer people and which I found cleaner and more comfortable. The best time for them is early morning. It is then that the water is clearest, the air is cooler and the number of visitors tends to zero.

The best time to come to Panaji is no different from the rest of Goa. From September to early March the weather is beautiful, warm and pleasant. In April, it wasn’t bad here only thanks to the air conditioning, which allowed us to sleep for 8-12 hours and not think about leaving the house. The asphalt is almost burning hot.

Medicine

Panaji is the capital of Goa and although not the largest city in the state, there is no shortage of medical services. I went to the hospital once when I was still living in. I don't remember the name of the hospital, but it was near Miramar, a kilometer from Subway.

The reception cost 400 rupees. I had two problems at once - an incessant “wet” cough and a stomach that refused to digest food as it should. They looked at my throat, listened to my lungs, prescribed syrup and pills and advised me to quit smoking: “At least for a few days or weeks, and better yet forever.” Probiotics were prescribed for my stomach.

The clinic is clean, the staff is friendly and speaks excellent English. The prescribed products really helped, and you can buy them according to the prescription given in the pharmacy right at the exit.

Conditions

Despite the fact that Panaji is perceived as a large city, unlike Mapusa, it is much cleaner and calmer. The purity of the water is inferior to other beaches, but you can still swim in the sea, it does not look too dirty and does not cause discomfort. There are also plenty of places where you can walk without breathing in the fumes of bikes and cars.

You can quickly get sick from something due to carelessness, not following basic hygiene rules, for example, not washing your hands or fruit before eating. There are no wild animals in Panaji, since the city is too built up for jungle inhabitants, but numerous dogs and slightly less numerous cows are present.

Local residents, especially those working in the service sector or owning a business, usually speak English well enough to carry on a dialogue and learn everything they need. There are also many students from Arab countries and other states of India. The guys mostly study English, but there are also those who study to become programmers, businessmen, and receive master's degrees.

The city is so calm that not once, even during numerous night walks, was it possible to see anything strange or scary. At night, the streets practically die out, the surroundings are dark and no extraneous sounds can be heard. Only in the center there are a few night cafes where you can satisfy your hunger with tea, coffee, a sandwich or a burger.

Business and work

There are large companies in Panaji, but the service sector is much more developed. Hotel staff, waiters, and casino workers are in demand here. But according to my observations in the capital, almost all businesses are owned by locals. And this is not the best place to earn as much as in more touristic places. Compared to the rest of northern Goa, Panaji is a kind of calm haven, where there are not many events happening and there is not a lot of money circulating, but you can calmly live in peace with yourself, walk along the cozy streets of the Latin Quarter, go to work or college, visit friends, and for a weekend get out somewhere in the wild and untamed Arambol, which by the end of April seems completely empty and deserted.

My impressions of life in Panjim

I’ll say right away that Panaji is far from Arambol or. The pace of life here is much more calm and balanced. The city is also somewhat remote from the most “party” places, so here you can peacefully sit at home, mind your own business, and spend your free time quietly getting to know the Goan culture. It may seem boring in contrast to other places in Goa.

Panaji is one of the most European parts in all of India. Despite this, the same Indians live here - open-minded, a little cunning and crafty, and very sociable.

I wouldn't choose to live in Panaji again for long, but it's a great place to take a break from the hectic life of Arambol. Due to the absence of the dominance of tourists, the prices here are more reasonable, and the quality of the products is much higher.

One of my favorite things that I come back for again and again is the Panjim Bridge and the embankment at night. From there, a refreshing breeze blows in and smells of salt water, and the view of the other glowing shore is breathtaking.

It may not be the best place for a short-term holiday, but to understand Goa and its culture, Panaji cannot be ignored.

Anastasia Valte (photo from the author’s personal archive).

The Indian state of Goa, popular among tourists all over the world, is located in the southwest and north of the country. This territory is distinguished by the absence of many of the prohibitions that prevail in India. Once upon a time, the lands of the state were a colony of Portugal. The city of Panaji is famous for its many temples, buildings and cathedrals in the colonial architectural style. This settlement is the largest in Goa. The territory of Goa is divided into southern, northern and central parts. North Goa is extremely rich in various attractions and ancient monuments. The southern portions of the state are sparsely populated.

The state of Goa embodies the fusion of the most diverse and diverse Indian cultures. The state capital of Panaji itself has nothing in common with the bustling Bombay, Bangalore and Kolkata - the largest metropolises of India. The city is more like a Mediterranean settlement. The capital has perfectly preserved many unique ancient buildings, white quiet Portuguese churches, a modern port and many cozy cafes and restaurants.

Beach holiday

The most picturesque beaches are pleasant places to relax. The state is notable for almost all of its beaches, but the coast of Panaji will bring special pleasure to tourists who come here. Small, comfortably furnished tourist areas are ideal places for a pleasant holiday. They are distinguished by their special beauty and picturesque landscapes. There are many different bars, cafes and restaurants here. The coast near Panaji is home to interesting species of sea turtles, stingrays, and moray eels. Fans of diving and snorkeling will spend time here to their fullest pleasure. The underwater colorful world of the beaches of northern Goa will not leave any traveler indifferent.

The main beaches of Miramar and Dona Paula are the most beautiful places in Panaji. The beautiful nature of these places has repeatedly attracted film crews from Indian film studios. The beaches are particularly comfortable, with white sand and crystal water. Here you can swim to your heart's content and enjoy a beach holiday.

Vainguinim beach welcomes tourists with turquoise clear water, seven kilometers from the capital. Due to the presence of bays, there are no storms or strong waves here. There are no stones on the beach, only clean sand. The beach is quite wide and spacious, so there are a lot of people relaxing on it. In this place you can have a great rest - play volleyball, do water sports or just relax with delicious fruit cocktails.

Architecture of the capital

The evergreen capital of Panaji is divided into the old Latin Quarter and the Fontaines district. This historical heart of the northern city of India is rich in its valuable ancient monuments. Labyrinths of narrow streets and alleys, cozy temples and statues on the river bank, tiny elegant houses, magnificent buildings with tiled roofs - the capital of the northern state of India successfully combines ancient traditions and modern trends. The buildings of the old era are located on the paved streets, the balconies of the houses impress with interesting architectural elements.

Most of the stylized buildings that house restaurants, cafes and hotels belong to descendants of the Portuguese. Many hotels in the city are designed in a characteristic Portuguese style. Tourists are attracted by the lush colors of hotels in India - local hotels contain a wide variety of shades. There are red ocher, blue and violet tones, splashes of green and yellow.

The main architectural monument is the Church of the Immaculate Conception, built in the mid-16th century. It was she who was a kind of beacon for the Portuguese sailors when they arrived on ships from Lisbon. Under the arches of this beautiful temple, sailors offered their prayers to the Lord and thanked him for successful sea voyages.

The center of the capital is considered to be a vast square on which the church is located. In front of the temple there is a beautiful white staircase. Along the city's embankment there are administrative buildings and a secretariat, which was erected on the site of the Sultan's palace. The secretariat building was once a royal residence.

The ancient residential quarter of the ancient city is distinguished by cobblestone streets, carved columns and houses. Among the shops there are cozy cafes everywhere. Here you can try delicious and unusual Indian cuisine. During the afternoon siesta, shops and cafes are closed.

The most interesting sights of the capital

The Arch of the Viceroys is a famous local landmark. As you know, it is built of red material, as are most buildings. The arch was erected at the end of the 16th century and dedicated to the landing of Vasco de Gama. The main road to the city river runs through the arch. The façade of the building on the shore side is lined with green granite. At the top of the niche is a statue of Vasco de Gama. But the back side of the arch is crowned with a statue of Argonaut. Two slabs that are built into the structure have inscriptions. This amazing structure was erected after the city was conquered by the Portuguese. Since then, the building has undergone various architectural changes more than once. The statue of St. Catherine that was previously present here has been removed.

The city is also famous for the beautiful Chapel of St. Sebastian, the Cala Training Academy, as well as a large architectural complex called Largo da Igreja. The symbol of the capital is the statue of Abbot Faria, who became famous solely thanks to Dumas’s good novel.

The Chapel of Saint Sebastian stands in the old quarter of Fontaines. The church was built in colonial architectural style. Previously, there was a Hindu temple here, but in the 16th century, Christians built a church in its place. The holy place is a white, elegant building with a minimal amount of decorative elements. The main exhibit is the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. This unique cross was once in the possession of the Inquisition of Old Goa and inspired terror among heretics.

Recreation and excursions

You should definitely go to explore the islands of the river. One island is home to a famous bird sanctuary. There is a convenient ferry service to its territory. The center of all Indian cultures is the Kala Academy. This is a modern complex near Miramar beach.

The capital constantly hosts various cultural exhibitions, there are many theaters, entertainment venues and salons. The beautiful parks of the city will bring you many pleasant, quiet moments, and in the evening you can visit a noisy nightclub or spend the evening in a cozy Indian restaurant.

The Hindu temples of Panaji are some of the most beautiful shrines. Excursions to the Hanuman Temple and Mahalakshmi Temple are a special experience. A visit to Dona Paula beach, as well as an exciting river cruise on a ship, will allow you to have an interesting and unusual time in the capital. You can order the services of a Russian guide and choose air-conditioned transport. A boat trip along the river will give you a fascinating evening with dancing and stunning views of temples and neighborhoods, which are surrounded by picturesque greenery.

Inspecting the Hindu temples in the capital itself and its surroundings will allow you to enjoy the magnificent architecture. The hill that leads to the Hanuman temple offers stunning views of the city. There are not many tourists here, and the silence of this paradise keeps many secrets of ancient India.

13 kilometers from the capital, in Mapusa, there is a legendary market. There are a lot of different products here. Only in the market squares and streets can you feel the real flavor of this exotic country. The market in Mapusa is open daily. Jewelry, various products and souvenirs offered by traders are eagerly purchased by tourists. This market has fairly low prices because they are aimed at the local population. A walk through a busy shopping area will bring a lot of impressions.

In the capital you can also buy silks, clothes and souvenirs in many local shops. Prices for goods here are lower than in European stores. High-quality products from an Indian manufacturer will last for many years, and memorable souvenirs will remind you of your trip to India. Panaji is amazing and diverse - you will want to return to it more than once to spend the best days again in this unforgettable corner of the globe. Only here you can truly get in touch with the colonial era of the country, visit unique Hindu temples, and go to the coast. The city is always happy to welcome its guests and tries to welcome tourists with maximum comfort.

The ancient city of Panaji is the capital of the Indian state of Goa. Many world cultures are intertwined in a small resort town. Tourists who find themselves here for the first time are amazed by the stone streets, impressive Catholic churches, and cafes with tables outside that are completely uncharacteristic for Indian cities. You get the impression that you are in a European city, and not in India. Architectural monuments, beautiful beaches, picturesque nature reserves, cheap shops and markets will interest any category of vacationers.

general information

The capital of Goa, Panaji, is located in the western part of the state, on the shores of the Arabian Sea, at the mouth of the Manduri River. The first mention of this settlement dates back to 1107. Since then, it has survived both the power of the sultans and 500 years of Portuguese colonization, was a seaport and bore the names Nova Goa and Pangim . Since 1987, Panaji has become the capital of the state of Goa. This is a quiet and peaceful town with a low crime rate. Now the number of residents is approaching 60 thousand.

The terrain in the vicinity of Panaji is predominantly flat, part of the territory is hilly. There are three nature reserves here where animals are kept in their natural habitat. To feel the indescribable atmosphere of the city, it is advisable to walk on foot through the narrow streets of the Portuguese quarters, which have preserved the European layout, and admire the architectural buildings made in a unique style.

How to get there

The nearest airport from Panaji is just 30 km away. The city can be reached by bus from any area of ​​Goa and from all beaches. From Congolim the fare is 15 rupees. From Arambol, travel by two buses with a transfer costs 50 rupees, while a taxi will cost 800 rupees. Many buses have signs indicating where they are from and where they are going. But if they are written in Hindi, then it is difficult to understand where this transport is going.

Male conductors shout the name of the destination through the open door, take money for the fare, and announce stops along the way. When traveling back from Panaji, you do not need to buy a ticket at the bus station. There are barkers near the doors of each bus. Having heard the desired direction, you should choose the bus with more people - it will leave earlier.

Where to stay

There are quite a few hotels in Panaji Goa, but the cost of living in them is much higher than in other parts of the state. Prices especially skyrocket during the high season. In five-star hotels, room rates start from $150. Good reviews about Ginger Goa 3*, Country Inn 4*. One of the budget accommodation options is hats. This is what they call small houses here, where the only amenities offered are a bed and a fan. There are also more comfortable huts, but this is the exception rather than the rule. Depending on the comfort, the price for staying in such a room ranges from $5.5 to $40.

Attractions

In Panaji, the capital of Goa, different cultures are mixed, surprisingly adjacent to each other. The spirit of ancient India coexists very harmoniously with the culture of Portugal of a later period. There are also modern neighborhoods with new buildings. The sights of Panaji will interest lovers of antiquity and connoisseurs of medieval architecture.

In the center of Panaji in the Church Square there is the main cathedral, which is called the Church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary. Perhaps this is the most beautiful landmark of the city. The white building, located on a hill, looks very majestic and can be seen from a great distance.

At first there was a chapel here that served as a beacon for sailors arriving at the port. In it they thanked God for a safe voyage. The majestic building was erected at the beginning of the 16th century. The snow-white beautiful church stands out strikingly against the background of the gray buildings surrounding it. Built in the Baroque style, it has two identical towers and one bell tower. A four-tier wide staircase leads to the doors of the temple. The interior is quite simple, but the altar dedicated to the patroness of the temple, the Virgin Mary, makes an impression.

On the right side of the main altar there are two more, decorated with carvings and gilding. On Catholic Christmas, a “nursery” is set up near the church - full-length figures are installed, which depict scenes on biblical themes.

Not far from the church there is a very interesting monument, completely unlike the others. The sculptural group represents a man with his arms stretched over a lying woman. This is a real person - Abbot Faria, who perfectly mastered the technique of hypnosis.

This Portuguese priest, born in Goa, was a participant in the French Revolution and a student of the German physician and healer Franz Memer. It is assumed that he became the prototype of the character in A. Dumas’s novel “The Count of Monte Cristo”. The abbot participated in anti-government conspiracies and was imprisoned twice, from where he escaped. Arrested for the third time, he died in a Paris prison.

The gloomy red building is the Basilica of Bom Jesus. It is built from laterite, a ferrous rock. The name is translated into Russian as “Good Jesus.” This basilica from the late 16th century is one of the most grandiose Christian churches in Asia. The three-story facade is decorated with order signs and columns. One can observe a striking contrast between the exterior and interior decoration. The basilica is spacious and very bright. The main altar is striking in its intricate beauty.

The main relic of the basilica is the relics of St. Francis Xavier. The tomb is located in the courtyard of the temple. This Spanish missionary who converted thousands of people to the Christian religion. At the same time, in Portugal he was known as an inquisitor who sent about 2 thousand people to execution. This man combined natural cruelty with signs of mental illness, but the church canonized him. The saint died far from India, on some island near China, and his ashes were recently brought to Goa.

Panaji is also home to the Goa State Museum. It has a very large exhibition - eight thousand exhibits are on display here, including Hindu figurines of the 4th-7th centuries, various artifacts from Hindu sanctuaries, rock paintings, and memorial stones. Among the exhibits of later times are traces of Portuguese colonial culture - coins, tables of inquisitors, etc. The museum constantly hosts 15 exhibitions, where you can learn a lot of interesting things about the history of the state.

For those interested in playing roulette, there are casinos on the river in Panaji. Goa is the only Indian state where the law allows gambling. While it is prohibited on land, it is not prohibited to set up casinos on water and in five-star hotels. Looking at the large ships at anchor, you might think that they are cruise ships, but in fact they are real casinos.

Beaches

Many tourists come to Panaji for the beaches. There is white, almost transparent sand, over which palm trees rise. On some beaches you can swim and sunbathe, while others are suitable only for walking. Each of them has a rich history and is shrouded in legends.

Vainguinim Beach is located about 7 km south of Panaji. It is wide, quiet and uncrowded, suitable for a relaxing family holiday. The sand is clean, it is cleaned daily by workers from neighboring hotels. At low tide the rocky bottom is exposed.

Miramar beach literally translates as “looking into the sea.” This is the most popular beach not only in Panaji but in the whole of Goa. The road leads to it through thickets of large casuarina trees. Silver-colored sand, picturesque views of the sea - this nature attracts filmmakers who have shot many TV series and Bollywood films here. The length of the coastline is about 2 km.

There are numerous restaurants, bars and shops along the beach. There are many resorts and hotels on the coast. There is a strong undercurrent near the shore, so swimming is unsafe. Locals and tourists love to stroll along the wet, soft sand in the late afternoon. Here you can enjoy life, forgetting about all your problems.

Dona Paula Beach is located 7 km from Panaji, on the shores of the secluded Dona Paula Bay. Since two rivers flow into the Arabian Sea at this point, the water looks quite cloudy and dirty. There are stones at the bottom. There are several shops along the beach selling food and clothing. This place, completely unsuitable for swimming, attracts with its beauty. There is an observation deck with amazing views of the sea and both rivers.