The city of colourful colonial-era villas, cobblestone streets, serene beaches, quaint churches and impressive forts! Panjim is rightfully called the heart of Goa. Panjim, also called Panaji, has everything that reflects the glorious history and the idyllic charm of Goa. Honestly, if you come to Goa and don’t explore Panjim, your trip will be incomplete!
Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, history buff or spiritual seeker, you will find something or the other in Panjim to suit your travel goals. So, next time you are in Goa, remember, Panjim is a must. And, here goes the list of the best places to see in Panaji.
A piece of advice, visit Panjim or for that matter, any place of Goa in June or July, during the monsoon. Because during this time the beauty of the state increases to many folds!
When you think of sightseeing in Panjim, chances are you think of a sandy beach with glittering water. That’s Dona Paula Beach for you! One of the most famous places in Panjim, this beach is ideal for those looking for rejuvenation or recreation. Go for a walk, sit on the beach or treat the adventure enthusiasts inside you, indulge in water sports, like parasailing and kayaking. That’s not it! You can also enjoy a session of food therapy and go on a shopping spree.
Witness the grandeur of Portuguese architecture at the majestic Fort Aguada. Overlooking the mighty Arabian Sea, this gigantic 17th-century wonder has rightfully earned the spot as one of the most popular visiting places in Panjim. Once used for defence against the Marathas and the Dutch, there is so much to explore in this ancient fort. Get acquainted with the glorious history, soak up in the natural beauty and spend some time with your family and friends on the premises. Don’t forget to click pictures for Instagram!
If you want to explore Panjim beyond beaches, forts and churches, Goa Archeological Museum is the place for you. The museum houses eight unique galleries displaying the artefacts of the prehistoric Portuguese era. You can find an elaborate collection of stamps, religious remains and memorabilia as well. What more reason you need to include a tour of the Goa Archeological Museum in your itinerary!
Next on our list of the best places to visit in Panjim is Basilica of Bom Jesus. The oldest church in the city, it is indeed one of the top places to go in Panjim. While some tourists visit the church to admire the stunning architecture, some come here to worship the remains of St.Xavier. No matter your reasons for visiting the Basilica of Bom Jesus, it will be an experience you will never forget.
Your Panjim sightseeing tour will remain incomplete without visiting the Shri Mahalakshmi Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi, this place offers peace and solace like nowhere else. The elegant structure, magnificent carvings and religious aura attract tourists from far and wide. So, whether or not you are a spiritual soul, you must visit the Shri Mahalakshmi Temple during your Panjim vacation. And when you do, it will strike the right chords in your heart as well that will keep you longing to come back.
Another addition to the list of the top things to see in Panjim is the Se Cathedral. With a splendid mix of Portuguese and Gothic architectural styles, Se Cathedral is worthy of admiration. It is primarily known for the massive golden bell and the gilded main altar, which is dedicated to Saint Catherine. So, visit this place and spend your time admiring the structure and the spiritual aura to make your trip even more memorable.
Surrounded by the glittering Arabian Sea on one side and the majestic cliffs of the Western Ghats on the other, Vainguinim Beach must be your next stop. One of the most popular places to visit near Panaji, this beach is perfect for those planning to spend a lazy afternoon on the white sand. The rows of swaying palm trees with the pleasant sound of birds make this beach a traveller’s paradise. In the mood for adventure? Vainguinim Beach has that as well! You can either go for a swim or activities like water skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides and windsurfing.
This swanky cruise is indeed one of the most happening places in Panjim to visit. It boasts multiple floors with 123 tables to play various games. You can play American roulette, baccarat, casino war, blackjack, 7 up 7 down, money wheel, sic bo, Texas house poker, dragon tiger and so on. After the games, try the gourmet dishes of local cuisine served at the cuisine. With all the games, delicious food and delectable drinks, an evening spent on the cruise will surely be a fun experience!
Get a glimpse of the triumphant history of the region at Reis Magos Fort. Located on the banks of the Mandovi river, it once served as a defence fortress, a hospital and a jail. And now it is a popular tourist spot. When you reach the fort, you will get mesmerising views of Panjim. If history and ancient remains fascinate you, the 7 guns housed in the fort will certainly intrigue you. Plus, the lush greenery makes for a beautiful backdrop for photo sessions.
One of the best places to visit in Goa, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers. Due to its location along the Mandovi river, it is home to several species of local and migratory birds. You can reach the place via a ferry ride and use the walkways amidst the beautiful mangroves to stroll around the region. During the walk, there are high chances of spotting birds like the red knots, pintails and mudskippers. You can also head to the watchtower to witness the allure of this region.
Now you see how many amazing places await you in Panjim. And we are sure that you are already in love with the place. So, next time you are planning to visit Goan state, Panjim can be a great option!
