Spotlight On: Panaji, Goa, India

Woman in Panaji. Image courtesy of Ben Ricci.

​The official capital of Goa, Panaji (or Panjim as it’s also known), is a testament to the colourful synergy of Portuguese colonialism and the soul of India. It has an energetic spirit peppered with a strong Catholic influence and is probably one of the only places in India where taking an afternoon siesta is the cultural norm. It’s a small city, so a couple of days is more than enough to explore it properly. 

Maruti Temple. Image courtesy of Ben Ricci.

​Top things to see and do in Panaji
Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception
The spectacular Church of Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception is one of the hot tourist spots in Panaji. It is a fine-looking building, sometimes likened to a tiered wedding cake. Painted in Mediterranean blue and white, it's beautifully lit at night and attracts significant crowds - whatever their religious persuasions. 
 
Panjim Open Library
India’s trusting culture that in many ways was founded on intellectual curiosity, can be experienced amongst Panaji’s beautiful central gardens. The Panjim Open Library is a lovely concept which allows people to borrow books for free.
 
Maruti Temple
The striking orange Maruti Temple (affectionately called the Monkey Temple because it’s the place of worship of the Hindi monkey god) is situated on the side of Altinho hillside overlooking the Old Quarter. Here you can watch monks pray while getting a feel for Hindu ceremonies.

Panjim Inn. Image courtesy of Ben Ricci.

Afonso Guesthouse. Image courtesy of Ben Ricci.

Where to stay in Panaji

Panjim Inn
This hotel situated in the heritage district of Fontain is the epitome of faded elegance, a nod to Panaji’s Portuguese past.  Round off the day with a gin and tonic as you kick back and relax.
 
Afonso Guesthouse
This centrally located family-run hotel offers everything you need and the staff are happy to provide helpful advice on things to see and do in the local area.
 
For more information on Panaji, visit
http://www.india.com/travel/goa/places-to-visit/historical-panaji/
 
 
Ben Ricci

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