About Panaji

Panaji is the capital of the Indian state of Goa and the headquarters of North Goa district. It lies on the banks of the Mandovi River estuary in the Tiswadi taluka. With a population of 114,759 in the metropolitan area, Panaji is Goa’s largest Urban agglomeration, ahead of Margao and Vasco da Gama. Panaji means “land that never floods”. Panjim town has preserved its Portuguese heritage remarkably well and parts of it still consist of narrow winding streets, old houses with over hanging balconies, red-tiled roofs and numerous small bars and cafe’s. It has terraced hills, concrete buildings with balconies and red-tiled roofs, churches, and a riverside promenade. There are avenues lined with gulmohar, acacia and other trees. Signs in Portuguese can still be seen over shops, cafe’s and administrative buildings. Fontainhas, transfers you back into the Portuguese days since it has retained its old charm and character. Within the commercial heart of the city rises majestically, the white- washed ‘Church of the Immaculate Conception’ founded in 1540. The Baroque Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church is located overlooking the main square known as Praca da Igreja. Colourful villas, cobbled streets and interesting buildings give Panaji a Portuguese ambience. Panaji is the first city in India to be built on a planned grid system.