Panjim

Panaji, also known as Panjim, is the capital city of Goa and is one of the most revered tourist attraction. Situated on the banks of the Mandovi River, Panaji has a cluster of terraced hills with the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church overlooking the city. Panaji showcases the convergence of past and the present in its architecture with its old Portuguese styled buildings and new commercial buildings, casinos and restaurants.

Dotted by brightly painted buildings of yellow, red and blue, Panjim is a treat to the traveller's eyes. The narrow streets of Panjim are best explored by renting local bikes or by walk. Witness the Floating Casinos and Night Cruises glittering along the Mandovi River surrounded by bright neon signboards. Panaji is also popular for the stunning Miramar Beach flanked by palm trees and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, where you can walk through the mangrove forests amidst the chirping birds.

Historically, Panaji has been the epicentre of Portuguese influence in India since 1843. The city was named Pangim by the Portuguese but was officially known as Nova Goa when it replaced the then Portuguese capital city of Goa (Old Goa). The city was named back to Panjim by the Indian Government in the 1960s and has been called the same ever since.

Commercially, Panaji has some great shopping places like the Mall de Goa and the Panjim Market. Like any other city in Goa, the most popular attraction in Panaji is its nightlife. Upholding the vibrant image of Goa as the Party capital, Panaji does justice with numerous nightclubs, casinos and year-round parties. The exuberant vibes of Panaji go on all night making it an ideal place for party lovers. The famous casino chains like the Paradise Casinos, The Casino Pride, Deltin Casinos run 24x7 with some of the most happening entertainment performances and games. Panaji’s famous nightclubs like The Butter Lounge, LPK-Waterfront Club, Heritage Jazz and SinQ are known for their rave parties and never disappoint the party pilgrims. The food in Panjim is in itself a great delight to tourists craving to satisfy their seafood cravings. Treating yourself to the vast variety of tastes and cuisines in Panaji is the only way to feel the bliss in all 5 senses. Some of the most famous and iconic restaurants in Panaji include The Fisherman’s Wharf, Ritz Classic, The Black Sheep Bistro, Wok & Roll, Barrel & Bones.