Panaji
Panaji (also called Panjim) is Goa's small, walkable capital on the south bank of the Mandovi river — a town of pastel Portuguese-era houses, leafy plazas, river cruises and some of Goa's best food.
City overview
Panaji became Goa’s capital in 1843 and still feels more like a large town than a city. Its heart is the Fontainhas Latin Quarter — narrow lanes of ochre, indigo and green houses with wrought-iron balconies — and the whitewashed Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception church overlooking the main square.
Things to do
- Wander the Fontainhas heritage quarter on foot
- Take an evening cruise on the Mandovi river
- Visit the Goa State Museum and the Old Secretariat
- Eat Goan fish thali in the lanes off 18th June Road
How to reach
Goa International Airport (Dabolim) is about 27 km away; Karmali (11 km) is the nearest railway station on the Konkan line. The Kadamba bus stand connects Panaji to every major Goan town.
Best time to visit
November to February for dry, pleasant weather; December for the festive season.