Overlooking the mighty yet gently-flowing Mandovi River, Panjim is Goa’s capital as well as the heart. It is a unique concoction of idyllic charm and lively events, with cobblestone streets, Portuguese colonial-era buildings, and lush acacia and Gulmohar trees beckoning tourists from far and wide. From serene beaches and quaint churches to impressive forts, pretty temples and even museums, Panjim or Panaji has everything that your heart seeks on a vacation. So, take a look at the 25 best places to visit in Panjim, Goa, and start planning that perfect itinerary. 

1. Dona Paula Beach, Panjim

Dona Paula Beach

#1 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

A beach where the rivers Mandovi and Zuari meet the Arabian Sea, Dona Paula is both scenic and geographically significant. You can simply laze around under the sun, shop for knickknacks at one of the shacks, get high on water sports, or sip feni – Goa’s famous spirit made from cashews or toddy palm, while watching the sun set. Did you know that there is an intriguing and sad story associated with Dona Paula Beach too? It is believed that Dona Paula de Menezes, a viceroy’s daughter, had fallen deeply in love with a fisherman. However, since they couldn’t get married, the unfortunate lady jumped off the beach’s cliff. Strangely though, today, this beach and promenade see so many lovers who exchange sweet nothings in the salty breeze. Also, when you are here, don’t miss photographing Baroness von Leistner’s “Image of India” statue.

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can fly to Dabolim Airport (29 km from the beach) and then hire a taxi.
    • By Train: First, reach Karmali Railway Station (19 km from the beach) and then get a cab or bus.
    • By Road: Dona Paula Bus Stand, at 400 m, is the closest one. You can walk from there or take an auto.

2. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Panjim

Basilica of Bom Jesus

#2 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

A sprawling affair, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Basilica of Bom Jesus is more than 400 years old. Surrounded by manicured gardens, this Roman Catholic basilica is where St. Francis Xavier’s earthly remains are treasured. It is believed that the saint had astonishing healing powers and his remains are displayed to the public every ten years. The baroque-style architecture of Basilica of Bom Jesus is Insta-worthy and the entrance is especially ornate. You can’t help but admire the lavish marble flooring, gorgeously gilded main altar, featuring St. Ignatius of Loyola’s imposing statue, and colonial-style carvings inside. Make sure you spend some time to soak in the serenity of the place and explore the art gallery. 

  • Best time to visit: September to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport at 27 km. You can hire a cab from there.
    • By Train: Karmali Railway Station is just 2 km from the basilica. You can hire a taxi or auto from there.
    • By Road: The nearest bus stop is 200 m from the basilica and you can get buses from the airport or railway station easily.

3. Fort Aguada, Panjim

Aguada Fort

#3 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Overlooking the picturesque Sinquerim Beach and occupying almost the entire south-western tip of Bardez, Fort Aguada is among the top places to visit in Panjim. This gigantic 17th-century wonder was built by the Portuguese as a defence against the Marathas and the Dutch, and comes with a towering lighthouse too. Its name (Aguada, which means ‘watery’ in Portuguese) was coined based on the fact that a freshwater spring inside the fort supplied water to the ships that stopped here. History buffs might also be interested to know that the fort’s upper part acted as a watering station, and features a moat, lighthouse, gunpowder room, water storage chamber and bastions, while the lower part housed Portuguese ships safely.   

  • Best time to visit: September to April
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: After flying to Dabolim Airport (43 km from the fort), hire a cab.
    • By Train: Once you reach Karmali Railway Station (26 km from the fort), get a taxi or auto.
    • By Road: Board buses from the airport or railway station to reach the stop in Sinquerim (3 km from the fort). Then take an auto or cab.

Also read about the places to visit in Goa in 3 days

4. Se Cathedral, Panjim

Se Cathedral

#4 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Boasting a beautiful mix of Portuguese and Gothic architectural styles, Se Cathedral was constructed to mark the Portuguese victory (under the leadership of Alfonso Albuquerque) against a Muslim army, whereby they took over Goa. Around 250 feet in length and 181 feet in breadth, this cathedral is set amidst verdant expanses and makes for amazing photos when the sky is blue. Its tower has a massive golden bell, presumed to be the biggest in Goa, and the richly gilded main altar, dedicated to Saint Catherine, is worthy of admiration.   

  • Best time to visit: November to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Hire a cab from Dabolim Airport (27 km from the cathedral).
    • By Train: Taking a cab or auto from Karmali Railway Station (2 km from the cathedral) is recommended.
    • By Road: Old Goa Bus Stand is 400m from the cathedral. Hire an auto or walk to cover the distance.

5. Reis Magos Fort, Panjim

A trip to the oldest fort in Goa means taking a dip in the sea of culture, history, and heritage. And that’s exactly what Reis Magos (Three Wise Men in Portuguese) Fort in Bardez promises. Constructed in stages, since 1550, the sprawling fort looms over the Mandovi River and offers sweeping views of Panjim. Though it started as a defence fortress, Reis Magos acted as a hospital and jail too, in later years. The architecture of the fort, which is a medley of Portuguese and Hindu styles, makes for memorable photos. Lush greenery all around, adds to the appeal. Don’t forget to check out the 7 guns housed here since the Portuguese era, if history and weaponry intrigue you.      

  • Best time to visit: October to February
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: First fly to Dabolim Airport (35 km from the fort) and then hire a cab.
    • By Train: Karmali Railway Station is the nearest railway station at 19 km. Take a taxi or auto to reach the fort from there.
    • By Road: After you reach Panjim Bus Stand (7 km from the fort), get an auto or taxi.

Suggested Read: Forts in Goa

6. Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, Panjim

Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church

#6 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Portuguese baroque style architecture and the hillside location make Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church a major tourist hotspot. From here, you can admire panoramic views of Panjim, apart from clicking some lovely pictures on the zigzag steps of the church. The large ancient bell it houses is a source of awe, and was acquired from the Augustinian Monastery, when it got damaged. Painted in bright white, the church stands out easily, owing to its tall belfry and two towers. Inside, the beautiful main altar is dedicated to Mother Mary, and is flanked by gold-plated altars of Our Lady of the Rosary and Jesus’ crucifixion. If you plan your visit around the Festival of Our lady of the Immaculate Conception, you will find the church wonderfully lit up.    

  • Best time to visit: November to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: At 29 km, Dabolim Airport is the closest airport. You can hire a cab from there.
    • By Train: Once you alight at Karmali Railway Station (13 km from the church), get a taxi or auto.
    • By Road: First, you need to reach Panjim Bus Stand, which is about 2 km from the church. Then, hire a taxi or auto.

7. Church of St. Augustine, Panjim

Church of St. Augustine

#7 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

If you are someone who can find beauty even in ruins, a visit to the Church of St. Augustine is highly recommended. More than 400 years old, this church complex on Holy Hill originally featured four towers. Today, only one stands tall, at 46 m, and is a striking structure with four storeys. Made of laterite, this lonely and partially ravaged tower draws tourists in droves and was featured when the song Gumnaam Hai Koi (from the movie Gumnaam) was shot. As far as excavations go, it seems that the now non-functional church was a grand affair once, with four altars, eight chapels and a convent too. 

  • Best time to visit: September to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can hire a cab after flying to Dabolim Airport (27 km from the church).
    • By Train: Once you reach Karmali Railway Station (3 km from the church), take an auto or cab.
    • By Road: First reach Panjim Bus Stand (8 km from the church) from the airport or railway station, and then hire an auto or taxi.

Check out our blog on: Churches in Goa

8. Archaeological Museum of Goa, Panjim

Archaeological Museum

#8 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Eager to know all about Goa’s Portuguese past? Then your itinerary for sightseeing in Panjim must include a trip to the Archaeological Museum behind the Convent and Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Apart from lifelike portraits of past governors and viceroys, the museum houses impressive stamp collections, religious relics, Luís Vaz de Camões’ bronze statue, ten incarnations of Vishnu carved in basalt rock, and a 12th-century Surya statue. Don’t miss the ivory sculptures depicting Jesus’ crucifixion, John the Baptist’s wooden sculpture, and Vasco da Gama, the famous explorer’s, painting. This museum is also where Goa’s first governor, Afonso de Albuquerque’s bronze statue is housed.  

  • Best time to visit: October to May
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can fly to Dabolim Airport (27 km from the museum) and get a cab then.
    • By Train: Karmali Railway Station is just 2 km from the museum. Once you reach the station, take an auto or cab.
    • By Road: The bus stand in Panjim that is nearest to the museum is 1 km away. From there, you can take an auto or cab.

9. Odxel Beach, Panjim

Odxel Beach

#9 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Those who wish to take an offbeat track can head to the small but picturesque Odxel Beach. The rocky environs and swaying palm trees here attract photography enthusiasts, while the tranquillity appeals to those who are trying to get away from Panjim’s mad rush. You can enjoy a picnic here with your loved ones, just like the locals or seek divine blessings at the Portuguese catholic chapel nearby. Avoid swimming though as the undercurrents might be unsafe. 

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: At 27 km from the beach, Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport. You can hire a cab from there to cover the distance.
    • By Train: You can reach Karmali Railway Station (20 km from the beach) and then hire a taxi.
    • By Road: Once you reach Goa University Bus Stop (2 km from the beach), hire an auto or taxi.

Suggested Read: Beaches in Goa

10. Corjeum Fort, Panjim

Corjeum Fort

#10 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Reminiscent of Portuguese rule in Goa and one of the best Panjim tourist attractions, Corjuem Fort was once a military fortress, to keep the Marathas at bay. It is situated on a river island in Bardez and made of pitted laterite. River Mapuca separates the fort from Aldona village and makes for a scenic setting. Built in 1705, the ancient fort houses a shrine for St. Anthony, which is currently owned and maintained by the Parish of Aldona. If unusual stories intrigue you, here’s the incident of Ursula e Lancastre, an ambitious Portuguese lady who dared to venture into a world of men back then. Dressed as a man, she arrived in Corjeum to play the role of a soldier, but was later identified. Consequently, she lost her position in the military. How lucky that women have come such a long way from those times, right?  

  • Best time to visit: October to February  
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Hire a cab after you fly to Dabolim Airport (46 km from the fort).
    • By Train: You can take a taxi or auto after reaching Thivim Railway Station (8 km from the fort).
    • By Road: Once you reach Aldona village (3 km from the fort) by bus, hire an auto or cab.

11. Vainguinim Beach, Panjim

Vainguinim Beach

#11 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

With the sparkling Arabian Sea on one side and the rugged cliffs of Western Ghats on the other side, Vainguinim Beach is the perfect lazy getaway for those who love the sun. Rows of tall palm trees and dense vegetation make this place a photographer’s delight. You can either go for a rejuvenating swim or indulge the adventure junkie in you with wind surfing, banana boat rides, water skiing or parasailing. Spot different kinds of pretty, twittering birds while you laze around on the sand and dig into yummy seafood at one of the nearby shacks or restaurants.    

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: After you fly to Dabolim Airport (28 km from the beach), hire a cab.
    • By Train: The nearest station is Karmali Railway Station at 20 km. Hire a taxi to cover the distance.
    • By Road: Goa University Bus Stop, at 3 km, is the nearest bus stand, from where you can take a taxi or auto.

12. Bambolim Beach, Panjim

Bambolim Beach

#11 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

If unwinding on golden sand, clicking pictures with gorgeous greenery in the backdrop, or swimming in azure waters seems like the ideal vacation to you, Bambolim Beach has it all and more. The pristine beauty and calm of this beach attracts those who are tired of a fast-paced urban lifestyle. You can also have a cosy picnic here or relish authentic Goan delicacies at one of the shacks. Rocky outcrops add character to this secluded beach, also frequented by fishermen.  

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: 23 km from the beach, Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport. You can hire a taxi from there.
    • By Train: After reaching Karmali Railway Station (16 km from the beach), get a cab or auto.
    • By Road: You can first reach Panaji KTC Bus Stand or Goa University Bus Stop (both 6 km from the beach) and then take an auto or taxi.

13. Casino Royale Goa, Panjim

Woo Lady Luck at Casino Royale Goa, a luxury cruise that floats on water and boasts multiple swanky floors for a uniquely entertaining experience. It is undoubtedly one of the most glamorous places to visit in Panjim at night. A total area of 40,000 sq. ft. has been devoted to around 123 gaming tables, so that you can play everything from Black Jack and Teen Patti to poker, roulette, baccarat and more. The whiskey lounge is perfect for sipping on exotic liquors or smoking classy hand-rolled cigars, when you are taking a break from frenzied gambling. Gourmet dishes are served too, to satiate your hunger pangs and fuel you up for long gaming sessions.

  • Best time to visit: November to February
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: The casino is 30 km from Dabolim Airport and you can get a cab to cover the distance.
    • By Train: After reaching Karmali Railway Station (13 km from the casino), hire a taxi.
    • By Road: Take an auto or taxi from Panjim Bus Stand (2 km from the casino).

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14. Siridao Beach, Panjim

Siridao Beach

#14 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Close to Zuari estuary, Siridao Beach is not just a picture-perfect respite from the urban bustle, but is also peppered with beautiful shells of unique shapes. This sandy-rocky beach has an intense green backdrop and makes for unforgettable pictures, especially when the sun is setting. Once you are done lazing around on the sand, you can pay a visit to the Chapel of Jesus of Nazareth, close by. There is a centuries-old cave in close proximity, which might intrigue your explorer’s soul too. 

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: At 20 km from the beach, Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport. You can hire a taxi from there.
    • By Train: Once you reach Karmali Railway Station (12 km from the beach), get a cab or auto.
    • By Road: The nearest bus stop to this beach is at 1 km, from where you can take an auto or cab.

15. Shri Mangesh Temple, Panjim

Shri Mangesh Temple

#15 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Established in 1560, this eye-catching temple in Mangeshi Village is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s incarnation, Bhagavan Manguesh. Multiple domes, balustrades and pilasters contribute to its elegant architecture. Tourists flock to this temple to admire the statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull, and the seven-storey lamp tower or deepstambha as well. A large water tank on the premises adds to the serene vibe. Inside, 19th-century chandeliers add to the dramatic décor of the temple. Festivals like Navaratri, Rama Navami, Diwali and Dussehra are celebrated with great pomp here, and attract those seeking spiritual bliss. The deepstambha, lit up on such special days, looks spectacular.  

  • Best time to visit: November to February
  • Ideal duration: Less than 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: From Dabolim Airport (36 km from the temple), hire a cab.
    • By Train: At 12 km, Karmali Railway Station is the nearest railway station. Take a taxi to reach the temple.
    • By Road: After you reach Ponda KTC Bus Stand (8 km from the temple) from Panjim, hire a taxi or auto.

16. Miramar Beach, Panjim

Miramar Beach

#16 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Hailed as the longest beach in Goa (around 2 km), Miramar Beach paints a striking picture with tranquil blue waves lapping against a white sandy shore. A long array of lofty palm trees makes it easy to capture Insta-worthy shots here. You can unwind on this peaceful beach, have a picnic, set up a barbeque, or watch migratory birds like gulls and plovers during the winter months. You can also go for boat rides, and if you are lucky, you will be able to spot dolphins. Don’t forget to relish authentic Goan dishes or Indian or continental fares at one of the shacks, cafes or restaurants nearby. Shopaholics can get their hands on some arty jewelleries or fashionable clothes at the stalls near the beach and save a ton of money too.   

  • Best time to visit: November to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Fly to Dabolim Airport (29 km from the beach) first and then get a cab.
    • By Train: You can first reach Karmali Railway Station (17 km from the beach) and then take a taxi.
    • By Road: Dhempe College Bus Stop is 650m from the beach. Simply walk or get an auto to cover the distance.

17. Coco Beach, Panjim

Set against densely forested hills and right on the Mandovi estuary of Nerul River, Coco Beach is what a traveller’s dreams are made of. One of the loveliest places to explore in Panjim, turquoise waters meet golden sands here, inviting you to take a refreshing dip or indulge in exciting water sports. River cruises, banana boat rides, jet skis, and bumper rides are especially a huge hit with tourists. Dotted with quaint shacks and stalls, the beach is also ideal for digging into lip-smacking cuisines, sipping on chilled drinks or getting some retail therapy.   

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Dabolim Airport is 38 km from the beach. To cover the distance, take a cab.
    • By Train: First reach Karmali Railway Station (21 km from the beach) and then get a taxi.
    • By Road: At 3 km, Chichekade Bus Stop is the nearest of its kind. From there, hire a taxi or auto to reach the beach.

18. Altinho Hill, Panjim

Altinho Hill

#18 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Famed as an upscale neighbourhood that takes your breath away with sweeping views of Panjim, Altinho Hill is replete with a unique charm. This is where you will come across the city’s All India Radio station, Archbishop’s Palace, chief minister’s residence as well as colonial style quarters for politicians and civil servants. Lush green vegetation, coupled with quaint buildings, winding roads, and the hillside location, make Altinho Hill a photographer’s paradise.    

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: After you fly to Dabolim Airport (29 km from Altinho Hill), take a taxi.
    • By Train: After reaching Karmali Railway Station (14 km from Altinho Hill), you can get an auto or cab.
    • By Road: Altinho Hill is just 3 km from Panaji KTC Bus Stand. You can take a cab to cover the distance.

19. Shri Mahalaxmi Temple, Panjim

A magnificent example of Konkani temple architecture, Shri Mahalaxmi Temple combines spirituality, art and history with panache. Once located near Colva Beach, in Kolambe, the original temple was demolished by the Portuguese. To save the goddess’s statue, devotees secretly handed it over to a priest in Talaulim. Then, the deity was moved to its current location in Bandora, and a new temple was built. What catches the eye first when you visit this temple is the grand entrance with a pair of elephants topping the arch. A couple of deepasthambhas or lamp towers are present on the premises, and they look glorious when lit on special occasions. The temple’s sabhamandapa is especially impressive, adorned with chandeliers, paintings and engravings that depict stories from the Puranas. The Mahalaxmi idol is also awe-inspiring as it has four arms holding a dagger, a sickle, a club and a vessel with flowers and offerings. Festivals like Mahashivratri and Navaratri are observed with a lot of pomp here.

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Dabolim Airport is 30 km from the temple. Hire a cab to cover the distance.
    • By Train: Karmali Railway Station, at 13 km, is the nearest of its kind. Take a taxi or auto to reach the temple.
    • By Road: You can hire an auto or cab from Ponda KTC Bus Stand (5 km from the temple) after taking a bus from Panjim.

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20. Museum of Christian Art, Panjim

Museum of Christian Art

#20 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Nothing compares to the Museum of Christian Art if you are eager to know all about Goa’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. Counted among the famous places to visit in Panjim, Goa, the museum is located on Holy Hill and brings you a mind-blowing collection of sculptures, paintings, furniture, ornaments, textiles and artworks done in ivory, wood and metal. Each of these tells a story about how India played a key role in influencing Christian art. You can go for a guided tour or peruse at your own leisure. There is a knowledge centre where you can learn about Goa’s heritage extensively, and events and exhibitions are held from time to time as well. Make sure you enjoy fresh sweets and snacks at the onsite café and shop for some beautifully designed products from the museum shop.

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: The museum is 27 km from Dabolim Airport, from where you can hire a taxi.
    • By Train: Karmali Railway Station is just 3 km away. Hire a taxi or auto to reach the museum from there.
    • By Road: First reach Panaji KTC Bus Stand (10 km from the museum) and then get a cab or auto.

21. Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, Panjim

Does connecting with your spiritual self in a charming, secluded spot sound enticing? Then pay a visit to the Chapel of Our Lady of the Mount, overlooking the Mandovi River from atop a lush green hill. Built by Afonso de Albuquerque in 1519, after he vanquished Adil Shah’s forces to take over Goa, the pristine white chapel has a quaint look that tempts photographers and religious tourists alike. Every November, music enthusiasts flock to this place to attend the Monte Music Festival. If you are keen on architecture, the tall façade, arches, columns and spacious layout will intrigue you. Baroque and mannerist influences are evident in the laterite structure, and make for wonderful pictures at the time of sunset. 

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: The chapel is 28 km from Dabolim Airport, and can be reached by taking a cab.
    • By Train: Karmali Railway Station is just 3 km from the chapel. Take an auto or taxi to cover the distance.
    • By Road: Take a bus from Panjim to reach Old Goa Bus Stop (2 km from the chapel) and then get a taxi or auto.

22. Maruti Temple, Panjim

Maruti Temple

#22 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

A brilliant orange and red structure nestled amidst verdant greenery and perched on top of the Altinho Hill – Maruti Temple is indeed a sight for sore eyes. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who helped Lord Rama conquer Ravana, the temple is a unique blend of traditional Hindu and colonial architectural styles. Overlooking the beautiful Fontainhas district, it boasts sloping roofs, sharp arches, dome-like detailing and wide steps as well. After dark, it is gloriously lit up and is visible from a good distance. The octagonal lamp tower or deepastambha is another structural element that adds to the grace of the temple. You might also be interested to know that the stairs of Maruti Temple begin from a freshwater spring, which has served the local populace for ages. 

  • Best time to visit: December to August
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: After you fly to Dabolim Airport (29 km from the temple), take a taxi.
    • By Train: After you reach Karmali Railway Station (13 km from the temple), get a cab.
    • By Road: Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand is 3 km from the temple. Hire an auto or car to cover the distance.

23. Institute Menezes Braganza, Panjim

Established in the 19th century by the Portuguese, Institute Menezes Braganza is Goa’s cultural, artistic and literary soul. Located in the heart of the city, it naturally features on the list of places to visit in Panjim. The institute conducts many public functions and events in collaboration with the Sahitya Akademi, National Book Trust in New Delhi and Goa Konkani Akademi. It was previously known as Institute Vasco Da Gama and continues to enthral tourists with its bright yellow exterior, arched lattice windows and warm-looking interiors. Their publication, Bulletin of the Institute Menezes Braganza, is widely known and focuses on activities in literature, art, culture and even science circles.

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 – 2 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: Dabolim Airport, the closest of its kind, is at 30 km. You can get a cab from there.
    • By Train: First reach Karmali Railway Station (13 km from the institute) and then hire a taxi or auto.
    • By Road: From Panaji KTC bus stand (2 km from the institute), you can take a cab or auto.

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24. Chapel of St. Sebastian, Panjim

Chapel of St. Sebastian

#24 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Situated in the picturesque locality of Fontainhas, the Chapel of St. Sebastian is a quaint affair in white and has an imposing façade. St. Sebastian was highly revered when Old Goa was battling with the plague, rodents and pests. And the legends of his miraculous healing powers still live among the locals. Constructed in 1818, the chapel houses a unique crucifix of Jesus, where his eyes are open. It is believed that the Lord has witnessed the suffering borne during the 15th-century inquisition. Inside the chapel, the statue of Virgin Mary and three beautifully carved screens received from a church in Diu also deserve admiration. During the Feast of Our Lady of the Livrament held every year in mid-November, people gather at the square in front of the chapel to celebrate.    

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 1 hour
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: At 29 km, Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport. Hire a taxi from there to reach the chapel.
    • By Train: Once you reach Karmali Railway Station (13 km from the chapel), hire an auto or cab.
    • By Road: After reaching Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand (2 km from the chapel), take an auto or taxi.

25. Goa Science Centre & Planetarium, Panjim

Goa Science Centre & Planetarium

#25 of 25 Places to Visit in Panjim

Goa is not just a beach haven but has other exciting as well as informative things to offer, especially if you are travelling with kids. Goa Science Centre & Planetarium is the perfect example of that. Both adults and children can enjoy a rendezvous with celestial bodies here, apart from watching 3D shows and participating in workshops. Many educational programs and exhibitions are held here as well. If you are a science buff, you will have a gala time getting to know about marine science, magic with mirrors, and fun things that can be done with science.  

  • Best time to visit: October to March
  • Ideal duration: 2 – 3 hours
  • How to reach:
    • By Air: You can first fly to Dabolim Airport (30 km from the planetarium) and then hire a taxi.
    • By Train: Karmali Railway Station is 17 km from the planetarium. Take an auto or taxi to cover the distance.
    • By Road: Just 3 km from Panaji Bus Stand, the planetarium can be reached by hiring a cab or auto.

So, keep this list of beautiful places to visit in Panjim handy and take your time to plan a fabulous vacation. Whether you are a budget traveller or someone who has a weak spot for luxury, there are plenty of hotels in Panjim to suit your taste and needs satisfactorily.