Panaji, the capital of Goa, is a picturesque city known for its charming blend of Portuguese heritage, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. Nestled along the banks of the Mandovi River, Panaji boasts colorful colonial-era buildings, cobbled streets, and stunning waterfront views. The city is home to iconic landmarks like the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Fontainhas (the Latin Quarter), and Miramar Beach. Panaji also offers a lively atmosphere with bustling markets, riverside promenades, and a thriving food scene featuring delicious Goan cuisine. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites or enjoying a sunset cruise on the Mandovi, Panaji is a perfect mix of tradition and modernity, making it a must-visit destination in Goa.
1. Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Panaji is a stunning whitewashed church built in 1541. Known for its grand Baroque architecture and iconic double staircase, it houses Goa’s second-largest bell. The church is a major landmark, especially vibrant during the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8. Overlooking the city, it offers a blend of history, beauty, and spiritual significance.
Location : The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is located in Panaji, Goa, India.
Timing : The Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Panaji is open daily.
🕒 Timings:
- Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM & 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit the Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Panaji.
2. Miramar Beach
Miramar Beach is a beautiful golden-sand beach located 3 km from Panaji, Goa. It offers stunning sunset views over the Arabian Sea and is a popular spot for walks, picnics, and relaxation. Close to landmarks like Dona Paula and the Mandovi River, the beach provides a peaceful escape while being near the city’s hustle and bustle. 🌊✨
Location : Miramar Beach is located in Panaji, Goa, about 3 km from the city center.
Timing : Miramar Beach is open 24 hours and can be visited anytime.
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Miramar Beach in Panaji.
3. Goa Science Centre & Planetarium
The Goa Science Centre & Planetarium is an interactive science museum located in Miramar, Panaji. It is a popular attraction for science enthusiasts, students, and tourists, offering hands-on exhibits, a 3D theater, and an advanced planetarium that showcases fascinating astronomical shows. The center features fun science exhibits, a dinosaur park, and interactive displays on physics, biology, and space.
Location : The Goa Science Centre & Planetarium is located in Miramar, Panaji, Goa, near Miramar Beach.
Timing : 🕒 Open: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
📅 Closed on public holidays
Entry Fee :
- Science Centre: ₹25 per person
- Planetarium Show: ₹50 per person
- 3D Show: ₹25 per person
4. Shree Mahalaxmi Temple
The Shree Mahalaxmi Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in Panaji, Goa. Dedicated to Goddess Mahalaxmi, the deity of wealth and prosperity, this temple is significant for Goan Hindus. It was built in the 18th century and is known for its beautiful architecture, serene atmosphere, and intricate carvings. The temple houses an idol of Goddess Mahalaxmi adorned with a unique Lingam on her head, symbolizing her Shaivite influence.
Location : The Shree Mahalaxmi Temple is located in Panaji, Goa, on Dada Vaidya Road, in the heart of the city.
Timing : 🕉️ Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 8:30 PM
🙏 Best time to visit: Early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan.
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit the Shree Mahalaxmi Temple in Panaji.
5. Gitanjali Gallery
Gitanjali Gallery is a well-known art gallery located in Fontainhas, Panaji, Goa. It showcases a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography by Indian and international artists. The gallery is a cultural hub, often hosting art exhibitions, workshops, and literary events.
Location : The Gitanjali Gallery is located in Fontainhas, Panaji, Goa, within the historic Latin Quarter.
Timing : 🕒 Open: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
📅 Closed on Sundays
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Gitanjali Gallery in Panaji.
6. Aguada Fort
Aguada Fort is a historic 17th-century Portuguese fort located near Sinquerim Beach, about 15 km from Panaji, Goa. Built in 1612, it was designed to guard against enemy invasions and served as a crucial defense point for the Portuguese. The fort offers stunning panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and features a four-story lighthouse, one of the oldest in Asia.
Location : The Aguada Fort is located in Sinquerim, Bardez, North Goa, about 15 km from Panaji.
Timing : 🕒 Open: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
📅 Open daily
Entry Fee : There is no entry fee to visit Aguada Fort. It is open to all visitors free of cost. 🏰✨
7. Big Daddy Casino
Big Daddy Casino is one of the most popular and luxurious offshore casinos in Goa, anchored on the Mandovi River in Panaji. Known for its grand ambiance, world-class gaming experience, and high-energy entertainment, it offers a variety of games, including Roulette, Poker, Baccarat, Blackjack, and Slot Machines.
Location : Big Daddy Casino is located on the Mandovi River, Panaji, Goa.
Timing : 🕒 Open: 24/7 (Open all days)
You can visit anytime to enjoy gaming, entertainment, and nightlife! 🎰✨🚢
Entry Fee : Big Daddy Casino in Goa offers a range of packages to suit different preferences.
1. Regular Package:
- Price: Starts from ₹3,500 per person
- Price: Starts from ₹6,000 per person
- Price: Starts from ₹3,000 per person
- Price: Starts from ₹2,000 per person
Famous Food In Panaji
Goan Fish Curry & Rice is a staple dish in Goa, loved for its rich, tangy, and mildly spicy flavors. The curry is made using fresh fish (like Kingfish, Pomfret, or Mackerel), coconut milk, tamarind, and a blend of Goan spices, giving it a unique and aromatic taste. It is best enjoyed with steamed rice, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients : Fresh fish, Coconut milk and spices
2. Bebinca
Bebinca is a traditional Goan layered dessert made with coconut milk, eggs, sugar, and ghee. This rich and moist cake has a unique caramelized flavor and a soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. It is often prepared during festivals like Christmas and Easter and is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth!
Ingredients : Coconut milk, Eggs, Sugar, Flour, Ghee
3. Xacuti
Xacuti (pronounced ‘sha-ku-tee’) is a rich and flavorful Goan curry made with chicken, lamb, or seafood, cooked in a thick gravy of roasted spices, coconut, and poppy seeds. This dish has a complex and aromatic taste, with influences from Portuguese and Konkan cuisine.
Ingredients : Chicken, Coconut and spices
4. Dodol
Dodol is a traditional Goan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, and rice flour, giving it a rich, sticky, and chewy texture. This delicious dark brown pudding is popular during festivals like Christmas and special occasions in Goa. It has a caramelized flavor with hints of coconut and ghee, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Ingredients : Coconut milk, Jaggery, Rice flour and ghee
