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Panjim, the capital of Goa, offers a wealth of fascinating landmarks and vibrant cultural activities. The city is rich in colonial heritage and seamlessly blends the past with the present. Visitors can explore the historical attractions of Panjim, such as the colourful façades and cobblestone streets of the Fontainhas district, which evoke the bygone Portuguese era. Modern buildings also contribute to the area’s charm. With its 10 best visitor places, Panjim vividly presents Goa’s rich history, making it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and inquisitive tourists.
10 Places To Visit In Panjim
The numerous places to visit in Panjim are breathtaking and adventurous at the same time. Here is a list of some famous attractions you must explore:
1. Hansa Beach
Photo: Clem Onojeghuo / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hansa Beach is a really serene and beautiful beach that distinguishes itself from the open and commercial beaches in the area. Because of its close proximity to important marine institutions, its seas are excellent, and the Indian navy force meticulously maintains the shoreline. Access to the beach is essentially via the Naval Aviation Gallery’s neighboring INS Hansa Maritime facility. Because solid streams do not damage the swimming area at Hansa Beach, it is safe to swim there. The perfect place for lazy strolls is the broad stretch of sand. Only marine employees and their families are covered.
Location: Near Vasco Da Gama, North Of Bogmalo Beach
Time: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Shri Shantadurga Kunkalikarin Temple
Photo: Sharvarism / Wikimedia Commons
The Shri Shantadurga Kunkalikarin Temple, in Fatorpa, Quepem Taluka, is one of the oldest temples in Goa and a popular tourist attraction. The goddess honored at this temple is Shri Shantadurga. During the 16th century, due to religious persecution by the Portuguese, the Goddess was shifted from her original location in Cuncolim village in Salcete Taluka to Fatorpa. Situated in the foothills of a mountain range, the temple complex is surrounded by abundant vegetation. At the entrance of the Shree Shantadurga Kunkalikarin temple, a grand gateway known as Mahadwar stands. The main dome of the temple is adorned with a large, intricately designed gold-plated kalash. Inside the garbhagraha, there are two idols of Shree Shantadurga.
Location: Fatorpa
Time: 6 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Abyss Marine Aquarium
Photo: Vichu’s world / Shutterstock
The Abyss Marine Aquarium presents a unique assortment of lifelike, dynamic marine angels and accurate sculptures that outline the customary activities of Goan angler families. There are around sixty different species of angels in the aquarium, all of which are well cared for and displayed in a breathtaking environment with a lively vibe. There are also smaller open tanks that provide viewers with a closer look at the viewpoint, apart from the main aquarium. Lobsters, starfish, parrotfish, catfish, lionfish, ocean cucumber, finger starfish, and other exquisite assortments from the Lakshadweep Islands, Indonesia, Australia, Japan, China, and Pakistan are included in the presentation.
Location: Nagve, Goa
Time: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100
4. Majorda Beach
Photo: Stacey2591 / Wikimedia Commons
Majorda Beach can be located in the southern part of Bogmalo. It is surrounded by numerous palm trees, making it a stunning coastline. This area is one of the most popular lodging and resort spots in Goa, making it a favored destination for vacations. The Jesuits discovered the best spice in Goa in Majorda, and they used it for baking bread. The inhabitants of Majorda are still recognized as the finest bakers in Goa because they were the first to master the art of making European breads. On this beach, there are several restaurants and beach shacks that offer delicious Goan, European, and Indian cuisine.
Location: Between Utorda And Betalbatim Beaches
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
5. Arvalem Waterfall
Photo: Manuela Adler / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Additionally called Arvalem Waterfall, the Harvalem falls might provide a peaceful and enjoyable destination for a trip. This stunning waterfall has a large lake forming at its foot, which is a popular swimming destination. The waterfall becomes a sloppy brown color during storm season, and its water flow significantly diminishes throughout the summer. Nestled in a picturesque setting, the waterfall is accompanied by the Rudreshwar sanctuary, a revered site for Hindus who observe the soul’s release on the twelfth day after death. The rock-cut caverns are next to the place. Arvalem Waterfall is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Goa, drawing large crowds of visitors.
Location:– Near Sanquelim Village
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
6. Arvalem Caves
Photo: Kavya Rastogi / Wikimedia Commons
The five Pandavas from the epic Mahabharata used the caverns in Arvalem, sometimes referred to as the “Pandava Caves,” as a refuge during their exile. These caves include simple yet attractive designs and a structural style similar to Buddhist caves. The shake building is composed of laterite stone, with a vihara at the southern end and a harbor at the northern, with no ornamentation on the dividers. The mysterious look of the caverns has lured tourists for a very long time, and the nearby Rudreshwar sanctuary and waterfall make it a popular destination in Goa.
Location: Near Sanquelim Village, 1.3 Kms From Arvalem Falls
Time: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
7. Maruti Temple
Photo: Raghunandana / Wikimedia Commons
Perched on the Altinho slope, Fontainhas, a region within Panajim, is clearly visible from the Maruti Temple. This area pays homage to Lord Hanuman and holds him in high regard as the supreme deity. The Maruti Temple is also beautifully illuminated in the evenings, and due to its bright lighting, it can be spotted from a distance. The Maruthi Temple is one of the most stunning temples in Panjim. Speculations suggest that the statue of Maruthi in the main temple can be glimpsed from the main street through an opening in the temple’s cellar wall.
Location: Near Fontainhas
Time: 5 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
8. Shri Nageshi Temple
Photo: Mahabalaindia / Wikimedia Commons
The Shri Nageshi Temple, a revered site dedicated to Master Shiva, is renowned for its supernatural abilities and is acknowledged as a self-existent entity. The shrine, which dates back to 1413, is renowned for Deepstambha, an ancient water reservoir, and a five-story light tower. Because of clever architecture, it is possible to observe the reflection of the Ruler Nagesh emblem and the illuminated lights within the interior sanctuary from a certain spot near the tank. The exhibition adorning the Sabhamandap of the Shri Nageshi Temple has puzzle-solving wooden sculptures on one side that reflect incidents from the epics of the Ramayana
Location: Donshiwado Village, Ponda
Time: 6 AM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
9. St. Cajetan Church
Photo: Gopuvivek / Wikimedia Commons
The St. Cajetan Church’s basic design was inspired by the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. In Goa, it is the only church with a dome still standing. The Church of St. Cajetan was constructed by Italian Theatine monks who were sent by Pope Urban III to propagate Christianity in the Golconda kingdom. They relocated to Old Goa in 1640 after being refused permission to work in Golconda. Construction of the church began in 1655 and was completed in 1661. The church is dedicated to St. Cajetan, the founder of the Theatine order, and its main altar is dedicated to Our Lady of Divine Providence.
Location: Near Basilica Of Bom Jesus
Time: 9 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: Free
10. Corjuem Fort
Photo: Ingvar Kuznetsov / Shutterstock
Corjuem Fort is smaller than other fortifications in Goa, it provides a great view of the surrounding river and arrival. The island’s name, according to the late Father Moreno de Souza, is derived from the words “Khor,” which means profound or lower, and “Zunvem,” which means island. Rich vegetation envelops the fortress, providing a panoramic view of the amazing cities and nearby islands. Built from cast laterite stones, the defense consisted of a battery of four weapons, and it was used as a Military School in the early 1800s. It protected the settlement of Corjuem and had a chapel under the Aldona parish church.
Location: On Corjuem Island, Aldona
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Panjim offers a delightful glimpse into Goa’s traditions and culture. Like already mentioned, Panjim showcases remarkable Portuguese architecture. Panjim is a must-see for those seeking relaxation and an escape from the bustling city life. The destinations listed above are among the top attractions in Panjim, ensuring that your visit to Goa is brimming with memorable experiences. If you are looking to explore this place, choose TripXL to plan a customised itinerary and get the best experience.
Cover Photo: Zoshua Colah / Unsplash
