A great percentage of people in India may have visited Goa once or many times in their lifetime. Goa is one of the most beautiful and popular places to visit in India. Along with its attractive beach areas and party spots, Goa has many other things to do and explore. Travellers can explore some of its famous marketplaces, churches, wildlife sanctuaries, and historical sites. If you want to discover heritage locations of central Goa, then Panjim can be the ideal choice.
Panjim comprises numerous waterfalls, churches, wildlife, and much more. While planning a tour, make sure you add Panjim to your list of places to explore in Goa. Also, this city has something for everyone, especially for the youth. If you wish to experience the nightlife of Goa, you can visit some of its best party spots in Panjim. You can have a great time at pubs, and restaurants like Joseph Bar, Quarterdeck, Taverna, Café Mojo, etc.
An evening on the Sunset River Cruises would be a highlight of any trip to Goa. This is an hour-long trip that takes you down the Mandovi River. You will be able to see the sunset, as well as Panjim and Betim in the evening and at night. People here also enjoy the Mandovi River Backwater during the day. The tour will cost around INR 649 or less. You can book your tour with any travel agency. Either you can call a travel agent, or you can book directly on their website.
In Goa Cruise, you can have a unique way to spend time with your special one. The best match for you is a romantic candlelight dinner on a houseboat. Spend some quality time on this luxury romantic dinner cruise in Goa. Here, you may sample traditional Goan foods while sipping red wine and feasting on a delicious Indian meal. Begin your candlelight dinner by giving your spouse a rose bouquet and a welcome drink. After being dropped off at your hotel, end your 2-hour candlelight meal with some quality and lifelong memories.
Before buying a Goa tour package, you must know about the high travel season and the best time to travel. December-January is the high travel season in Goa due to Christmas and New Year. The weather in Goa is also pleasant between December and January. A healthy percentage of foreigners from the west visit India during these months. The low travel season in Goa is June-September because of heavy rainfall. The flight rates and accommodation during this season are cheaper. However, you might have to compromise on outdoor fun.
Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church: This church is among the most popular landmarks in Panjim. It was constructed in 1541. Later on, it was substituted by a higher church in the 1600s. The key features of this church are its dazzling zigzag stairs, making it one of the most snapped locations in Goa.
Distance from Panjim: 1.4 Kilometres
Dona Paula: Dona Paula is a popular site in Panjim that has numerous hotels nearby. This site is famous for its ocean-facing hilltop. It got its name from a couple who had a tragic love story and you can even get to see the statue of Dona Paula at this site.
If you are looking for some relaxation and peace, this place is just for you because of its peaceful atmosphere. Parasailing and kayaking are some fun activities you can take part in.
Distance from Panjim: 7.6 Kilometres
Altinho Hill: The meaning of the term “Altinho” is high in Portuguese. Altinho Hill is home to AIR (All India Radio) station. Here the visitors can get to witness the most astonishing scenic views. Moreover, they can find lots of cafes and restaurants close to this site.
Distance from Panjim: 43 Metres
Fontainhas: Fontainhas is one of the must-visit tourist destinations in Panjim. For photography buffs, Fontainhas is a perfect place to show their talent. This place shows exquisite architecture, and tourists can feel the impact of the Portuguese when they visit here. You might notice a glimpse of Portuguese culture in their music, language, and cuisine.
Distance from Panjim: 1.1 Kilometres
Colva Beach: Colva Beach is among the most stunning beaches close to Panjim, Goa. The lofty palm trees and beautiful white sand enhance the charm of this beach. Colva stays less crowded on weekdays. This beach is also well-liked for its excellent parties at night. As well, it is perfect for families and couples. November to March is considered the best time to go to Colva.
Distance from Panjim: 33.2 Kilometres
Anjuna Beach: Anjuna Beach is situated towards the north of Calangute and Baga beach. Apart from just sitting at the beach area, this site is also known for its flea market, where you can find many attractive items like clothes, jewelry, electronic devices, etc. Anjuna Beach is ideal for every age group, and it is among the most stunning beaches nearby Panjim.
Distance from Panjim: 21.1 Kilometres
Calangute Beach: Don’t forget to add Calangute to your Goa places to visit list, or else your trip may seem incomplete. Calangute is recognized as the Queen of Beaches. It is full of several cottages and restaurants lined with the coast where you can taste delicious seafood.
Distance from Panjim: 14.3 Kilometres
Baga Beach: This beach is named after the Baga Creek that delicately fuses into the Arabian sea. Here you can find lots of small eateries and shacks serving the best seafood to its visitors. Baga is ideal for visiting between October and February. Water sports, beach strolling, and parties are a few things to do here.
Distance from Panjim: 16.8 Kilometres
Vagator Beach: Vagator Beach is among the unexplored beaches close to Panjim. The beach can be a perfect destination for shoppers because of its local handicraft market.
It remains covered in a 30 kilometres stretch of land starting from Fort Aguada to Chapora Fort. Shopping, strolling, and water sports activities are a few things to do at Vagator Beach. The ideal time to visit Vagator is between November and February.
Dabolim airport is the closest airport located 35 kilometres from the main city. The fastest way to reach Panjim, Goa, is via flight. If you want to have a pocket-friendly tour, you can take a train to Panjim. Margao is the closest train station that is only 39 kilometres away from Panjim. There are lots of trains which operate from Margao railway station.
Reaching Panjim via train can be time-consuming. However, a lot of tourists choose to travel by train via the Konkan region due to the picturesque views, mainly during the rainy season. If you like long road trips, it would be a great option to visit this city by car. NH 17 is the main highway connecting Maharashtra-Goa. You need to be very careful while driving as the roads are narrow and winding.
There are several luxurious, mid-range, and budget hotels that you can find in Panjim. Booking hotels in advance can get you a good discount. Most hotels in Panjim are only some kilometres away from the major tourist sites. The tourists can get air-conditioned rooms, free parking, free internet, laundry services, and other services in many mid-range and budget hotels near Panjim.