Places To Visit In Panjim

1 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

The Basilica of Bom Jesus Church located in Goa is one of a kind in India and is known for its exemplary baroque architecture. Built in 1594 and consecrated in 1605, the building of this church coincides with the beginning of Christianity in India. The church is located in Old Goa in Bainguinim about 10 km away from Panjim. The oldest church in Goa, it holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, a special friend of St. Ignatius Loyola with whom he founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). Even after 400 years, the remains are in good condition and are taken out once every decade. 

2 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Located in Panjim, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception is one of the most popular and also one of the oldest chapels in Goa. Built in a Portuguese Baroque style, the church is located on a slight elevation, on a hillock. It is known to house the second largest church bells in Goa. These bells are known to have been removed from the Augustinian ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Grace that existed in Old Goa.

3 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Located around 7kms from Panjim, Dona Paula is one of the most popular tourist hangouts in Goa famous for its vast stretch of beach. The small beach is also popular as the Lover's Paradise and features a jetty (Dona Paula Jetty) adjacent to it, which provides an ethereal view of the Arabian Sea and Mormugao harbour. Another attraction here is the whitewashed statue, called 'Image of India', depicting Mother India and Young India.

4 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

One of the only two beaches in Panjim, Miramar Beach is the longest beach in Goa stretching as far as 2 km. This beach is located on the confluence point of Mandovi River and the Arabian Sea, thus affording a spectacular sea view and panoramic view of Aguada Fort. Miramar Beach with silvery sand and palm trees is popular for picnics, barbecue parties, water sports and dolphin spotting cruises.

5 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Bambolim Beach is a pristine beach located in Bambolim in North Goa, 7 kilometres away from Panjim. It is famous for being a virgin beach, untouched by commercialization and is barely ever crowded. The long coastline is perfect for taking a stroll or lazing in the golden sand under the balmy sun. The beautiful beach is also a good picnic spot.

6 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Siridao Beach is a rocky beach popular for the mysterious caves, located at the mouth of Zuari River a few kilometres from Panjim in Goa. It is also known as "The Shell Collector's Beach" owing to a large number of pearl shells and oysters that wash ashore. This beach sees a limited number of tourists. The view of the sunset from Siridao Beach is gorgeous.

7 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Altinho Hill is famous for its picturesque location and the splendid view of the city from the hilltop. It is a neighbourhood of Panaji and is known as an elite residential area that has the Archbishop's Palace, the house of the Chief Minister, the All India Radio Station and Government Servant Quarters. The region has a unique charm and tempts many offbeat explorers.

8 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Fontainhas and Sao Tome is a beautiful Latin Quarter located in Panaji on the banks of the Ourem Creek and named after the natural springs nearby. It was laid out on a piece of land acquired by a Goan in the 18th century who had made a fortune in Mozambique. The quarter is now recognised as a heritage site and is famous for its charming Portuguese style houses on the base of the Altinho hills.

9 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Archaeological Museum of Goa houses a splendid collection of artifacts belonging to the prehistoric and late medieval Portuguese rule in Goa. Located on the backside of Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi, the museum was once an ancient Franciscan Monastery. The Archaeological Survey of India founded the museum in 1964 but was recognized only after 1984. One can find an array of antiques including coins, statues, ivory and wood sculptures, paintings, portraits, maps, inscriptions, stonework, ceramics, etc.

10 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Situated right at the mouth of Nerul River, Coco Beach in Goa is a scenic shoreline located on the Mandovi estuary lined with tall palm and coconut trees. It is perfect for boating, water sports and spotting dolphins. Lined with beach shacks, restaurants, and roadside shopping stalls, Coco Beach is often explored on River Cruises.

11 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is a popular bird-watching area and one of the smallest protected areas in Goa. Named after a famous ornithologist Dr Salim Ali, it is located on the island of Chorao in Mandovi River. The sanctuary is accessible by a 15-minute ferry ride from Ribandar ferry wharf near Panjim. To spot the migratory birds, the best time to visit is during the winters from October to March.

12 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

River Cruise on the Mandovi River is an interesting way to explore the river. The cruise options vary from houseboats, sailboats and yachts and can be specifically chosen to watch the Sunset, for a Party/ Dinner, or a Nature Cruise. The sailing route for Mandovi Cruises allows one to explore the Portuguese colonies and Vanxim and Divar and Chorao Islands. The cruises come with an exciting amalgamation of the Goan lifestyle and hospitality to make it a memorable experience for the tourists.

13 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Reis Magos Fort is the oldest fort in Goa, located on the banks of River Bardez across Panjim in Goa. The 15th-century Portuguese fort was once a defence fortress which was later converted into a jail and then a hospital. Ruined and neglected, it was restored and finally opened to the public in 2012. The majestic fort with reddish walls is visible all the way from Panjim.

14 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Mangeshi Temple or Shri Mangueshi Temple is Lord Shiva temple located in the Mangeshi village in Ponda region of Goa. The largest and most visited temple in Goa, it is built in the honour of Bhagwan Manguesh, the Kuldevata of Gaud Saraswat Brahmins. The deity is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva, whose name was derived from "Mam Girisha" the words used by Goddess Parvati when Lord Shiva made a successful attempt to scare her by taking the form of a Tiger.

15 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Se Cathedral, or Sé Catedral de Santa Catarina, is one of the largest churches in Asia and an important church in Goa. Located in Old Goa, it is dedicated to Saint Catherine and is an important centre of the Latin Rite Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Goa and Daman. Se Cathedral is a famous landmark in Goa exhibiting Portuguese-Manueline architectural style.

16 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

St. Augustine Church was built by the Augustinian Friars in the early 17th century. Although in ruins, the church tower stands 46 metres tall. The church, in its entirety, was considered to be one of the biggest churches in the state and the tower a famous landmark. It possesses an irresistible charm that draws history lovers and is a monument of historic significance in the country.

17 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Shri Mahalaxmi Temple located in Bandora, 4km from Ponda in Goa, is dedicated to Goddess Mahalakshmi. The highlight of the temple is the idol of the Goddess with a linga on her head and is considered a Satvik (peaceful) form of the Devi. The deity was worshipped by the Silahara rulers and the Kadamba Kings. This temple was established in 1866 after the original shrine was destroyed by the Portuguese and is a magnificent example of traditional Konkani Temple architecture.

18 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Goa State Central Library is also known as the Krishnadas Shama Goa State Central Library. It is dedicated to Krishnadas who was a 16th-century Konkani scholar to acknowledge his contribution to the field of literature. The six-floor library was established in 1832 and is the oldest public library in the country. It is, however, equipped with modern facilities and advanced technology to ease out the process of lending books for the readers who can choose from the stunning collection of over a quarter of a million books.

19 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Located adjoining the convent of Santa Monica in Old Goa, Museum Of Christian Art houses a fine collection of Christian artifacts belonging to the 16th century when Portuguese ruled Goa. The 2,000 sq ft Museum has over 150 artifacts to showcase the rich art and heritage of Christianity in Goa. The artworks also show the cultural harmony within the people of India as many of the Christian sculptures were carved by local Hindu artists.

20 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Savoi Spice Plantation is a 40-hectare organic farm located 15km from Ponda, the cultural capital of Goa. Established by Mr Shetye, the beautifully maintained farm is popular for the guided tour of the intercrop plantation and the Goan Saraswat Buffet at its Sadauli Restaurant.

21 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Gitanjali Gallery is an art gallery in Goa that exhibits a collection of artwork made by locally and internationally acclaimed artists from 1950s to 1990s. The Gallery is now a fabulous cultural centre with a cafe, an art studio and a conference area. Numerous art, historic, theatre and film workshops are also often held at the Gallery other than book launches, poetry readings, etc. It is an apt attraction to read a book over a cup a coffee or play a fun board game with other visitors and maybe even make new friends.

22 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Tropical Spice Plantation is one of the famous spice plantations in the state where one can get a guided tour of the area. The tour consists of traditional welcome with a delicious drink, an informative site tour and a delicious organic lunch made of the fresh farm produce. The guides are friendly and promptly share tips as they explain the ecosystem. One can purchase local spices too to end their fabulous trip with.

23 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Sri Mahalsa Narayani Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Mahalsa located in Mardol in North Goa. Shri Mahalasa Narayani, who is also known of Mohini, is an Avatar or incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The highlight of the temple is the stunning idol of the deity that appears in different 'alankaars' (Jewelry) at different times.

24 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Church Of Our Lady Of The Rosary is one of the oldest churches in Goa and is now considered as a World Heritage Site. The church was built on the orders of Afonso de Albuquerque after Goa was conquered by the Portuguese. The captivating design of the church was inspired by Gasper Correia and has a gothic style main altar dedicated to Our Lady of Rosary. The highlight of the church is an inscription Afonso de Albuquerque in 1510 on the conquest of Goa.

25 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Caves of Khandepar are four ancient rock-cut caves located in a jungle near Khandepar Village dating back roughly to the 12th century. They were discovered in 1970 and have two interconnected caves, while the other two are free standing. One of them is located a short distance away and the last is located opposite to the first cave. The last cave bears a pedestal which is believed to be made to hold a Shivalinga and, therefore, is considered as a meditation room.

26 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Statue of Abbe Faria was built in the honor of an acclaimed hypnotist, Abbe Jose Custodia Faria. He was a Luso-Goan Catholic monk, a pioneer of the scientific study of hypnotism and the first one to ever demonstrate and prove its existence. The historic statue made of bronze was installed in the state capital in 1945 and depicts Abbe Faria hypnotising a woman. The statue is located at a small square just near the Secretariat Building in Panjim.

27 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Church & Convent of St. Monica, also known as the Royal Monastery of Santa Monica, was established in the early 17th century at Monte Santo in Goa. About two decades later, the monastery was turned to ashes by a destructive fire. However, 15 years later, it was rebuilt and established as the only convent for nuns in the state. It was also known as the first nunnery of the east and housed 150 nuns. The nunnery was shut down in 1885 after the passing of the last nun. From 1968, the attraction functions as only a church.

28 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Church Of Our Lady Of The Mount is a 16th-century church in Goa famous for its religious significance and picturesque location. The church is located on a hilltop amidst thick natural vegetation giving a splendid view of old Goa from atop. The structure is now partly in ruins and closed for daily exploration, but an evening mass is held on the 8th of every month. The church is also open for the public during the Monte Music Festival and the Feast of St. Francis Xavier every year.

29 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Houses of Goa Museum has a splendid collection of houses belonging to the Colonial era in Goa. The museum in itself is a brilliant piece of architecture and dons a ship-like structure. The museum was designed and built by Gerard de Cunha and houses furniture, home decor items, door & window frames, railings, ceramic tiles, etc. from the bygone era when Portuguese architecture became a part of the Goan lifestyle.

30 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Chapel of St Catherine is a 16th century historic chapel that was built over a Cathedral in 1552 on the orders of Afonso de Albuquerque after the Portuguese conquered the state. Located in Old Goa, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The splendid Renaissance architecture in laterite and limestone is adorned by paintings and artworks that draw tourists every year.

31 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Built in the early 19th century, Chapel of St Sebastian marks an important attraction in Fontainhas, Goa. The pristine white structure is dedicated to St. Sebastian who treated the ones affected by plague and other diseases. The church houses a crucifix where one can find Christ's eyes are open for striking fear into the minds and hearts of the wrongdoers. The church sees a number of visitors to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Livrament.

32 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Located in Panjim, Goa, Menezes Braganza Institute was established in the late 1800s by the Portuguese as a cultural institute. It was previously known as the Institute of Vasco da Gama and was started with the intention of focussing on cultural, scientific, and literary fields. After the fall of the Portuguese, the institute was renamed after Luis Menezes Braganza who campaigned against the Portuguese. The institute now holds cultural activities on a regular basis for the public.

33 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Located in Panjim, Azad Maidan is a ground and martyr's monument dedicated to Dr. Tristao de Braganza Cunha - a Goan Freedom Fighter. It was originally established as Largo Afonso de Albuquerque by the Portuguese. The maidan has a brass memorial dedicated to Dr. Tristao and the edifice is converted into the Police Headquarters.

34 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Campal Gardens, also known as Bhagwan Mahavir Children's Park is a beautiful little well-maintained garden perfect for jogging or walking, to sit in solitude or spend an evening with children. Located in the Campal area of Panjim, along the Mandovi River, it has an artificial water body with boating facilities for kids and a play area amidst lush green bushes and tall palm trees. The garden also features a huge statue of Bhagwan Mahavir in a lotus position.

35 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Overlooking Mandovi River, Church Of St. Lawrence, located atop Sinquerim Hill was built in the mid 16th century by the Jesuits. The church is dedicated to the martyr St. Lawrence who is also considered to be the patron saint of the cooks and the poor. Tourists are drawn for its religious significance, the age-old Portuguese architecture, and the annual feast held on the 10th of every August.

36 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Goa Science Centre & Planetarium located in Miramar is a science museum that expands over an area of 5 acres and houses a Planetarium, a theatre for 3D shows, and several scientific exhibits. Quite a few programs are also conducted to demonstrate scientific principles to the public. It was established as a joint project of the state Department of Science, Technology & Environment and the National Council of Science Museums with the objective of making science exciting for the youth and inculcating a desire to learn the subject.

37 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Secretariat Building is a 15th century structure and the oldest colonial building in Goa. The site was initially the summer palace of Adil Shah. After it was taken over by the Portuguese, it served as accommodation and a custom's post for the Portuguese Viceroys. Currently, the monument serves as a State Assembly Office and can be explored only from the outside. It is worth seeing for its ancient Portuguese architecture.

38 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Built in the late 16th century by Viceroy Francisco Da Gama (the great-grandson of Vasco da Gama), Viceroy's Arch is a historic monument that once served as the entrance of Old Goa. The monument was built in the memory of and to honor the achievements of Vasco Da Gama. The structure is made of laterite and is an important landmark even today on the road that leads to River Mandovi.

39 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Located on Altinho Hill overlooking Fontainhas district in Panjim, the majestic Maruti Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. One of the most beautiful temples in Goa, the idol of Lord Hanuman can be viewed from the main road through an opening in the basement of the temple. A refreshing stream also flows beside the temple, lending it a calming and yet, refreshing aura. The temple is stunningly lit up at night and is visible from a distance.

40 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Church Of Our Lady of Miracles is a 16th century Church built by the Portuguese in Goa. The Church was initially dedicated to St. Jerome, therefore, it is also known as St. Jerome Church. Since the Portuguese destroyed a number of Hindu monuments to promote Christianity, it is believed that the church is built over a temple. The structure was destroyed in a fire around mid-1900. After the renovation, it was renamed as Church of our Lady of Miracles. It is most famous for its annual festival, on the 16th day after Easter.

41 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Safa Shahouri Masjid or Safa Mosque is a 16th-century mosque located in Ponda, Goa. Consisting of gardens and fountains, it is believed to have been built in 1560 by Adil Shah. The simple architecture of the national monument is worth a halt here. The structure with lush green grasslands all around and a serene water tank in the foreground is quite a sight. The atmosphere is tranquil and suitable to experience a moment of peace close to the divine powers of God.

42 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Goa is considered a masterpiece of Portuguese planning and architecture in India. One such striking inclusion to the beautiful city is the Convent of Santa Monica and the Chapel of The Weeping Cross. Built in 1606 in Monte Santo, the historic building took a total of 21 years to get constructed. It was believed to be Asia?s first and largest nunnery that could accommodate around 300 people at once. Perched atop a hill, the church gives a vision of an olden day fortress with massive courtyards and big buttresses. It houses four altars dedicated to St. Monica (mother of St. Augustine), Bom Jesus, Immaculate Mary and Crucified Christ (popularly known as The Weeping Cross).

43 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

The Convent and Church of St. John of God is an olden Portuguese days structure built in 1685 dedicated to Our Lady of Good Success. Situated in North Goa, next to the tower of St. Augustine, the building is very ordinary looking depicting the traditional designs of Portuguese architecture. It is believed that in 1685, eight Brothers from the Congregation of St. John of God constructed the building. They were sent to Goa by the Portuguese King Dom Pedro II to look after the sick in the hospital. When the suppression of religious orders was implemented in 1835, the convent was used as a hospital for the poor and the needy.

44 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Built in 1661 by Italian friars of the Theatine order, the Church of St. Cajetan is located half a kilometer away from Se Cathedral in Old Goa. Originally called as the Church of Divine Providence, it is believed to have been modelled on the original designs of the Basilica of St. Peter in Rome. The church has a pearly white exterior and is one of the landmarks of the capital city. Although the church is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence, but it has been named after its founder, St. Cajetan, a contemporary of St. Francis Xavier. As of now, it has been included among the World Heritage Site, Churches and convents of Goa.

45 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

A place that started as a small place of worship, the Holy Cross church in the village of Santa Cruz now happens to be the largest parish in Goa. The church was built in 1957 on a recommendation of the King of Portuguese to help convert people to Christianity. It is a replica of the Se Cathedral in Goa.

46 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Well known all around Goa as Fulancho Khuris (Cross of Flowers) or the Miraculous Cross, the Holy Cross Shrine is an iconic spot in Bambolim that almost everyone crosses on the way to South Goa. Long before the Holy Cross church was built at the site, there was just a tiny cross on the side of the road. The Shrine was built recently in 1996 forming a protective barrier around the Miraculous Cross. Most people pay their respects here by offering candles, garlands of flowers, or cash. 

47 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Situated in Valpoi, Goa, Hivre Waterfalls is an enchanting stretch of cascading water. Considered a paradise among the nature lovers and tourists, it is also a popular destination for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts.

48 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Located near Priol in Gao, Karmalya Waterfalls is a local secret. Popular among the locals, the waterfalls is hardly visited by tourists due to its remote location. This factor makes the waterfalls all the more charming and pristine. Located on the road without any trekking trail, the waterfalls are also very easy to reach.

49 out of 49 places to visit in Panjim

Church of St Francis of Assisi is a 16th-century Portuguese church located near Se Cathedral in Goa. It is a famous landmark which exhibits an eclectic mix of stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The statue of Mother Mary stands at the front of the church with the tower of the church behind. Adjoining the St Francis of Assisi Church is an archaeological museum.