thrillophilia-logo
INR
Login

Things to Do in Panjim

Wondering about the things to do in Panjim, then this small city won’t disappoint you. From offering tourists the most relaxing experiences to taking them on an adventurous ride, the city has it all. Tourists can visit the Panjim’s Latin quarter, Fontainhas and witness the beautiful lanes and houses built in portuguese style. If you are looking for a more relaxing and laid back time, then explore Divar Island. 

If you are still in doubt about what to do in Panjim, then indulging in the many watersports like snorkelling, scuba diving, banana boat ride, etc can be a great experience. Other than the thrilling watersports, the city is also famous all around for its delicious cuisines and going on a food tour to try local cuisines like fish curry, prawn curry, crab, etc is a must.

No vacation is complete until you indulge in a shopping spree and the Panjim Market is a great place to start with. Buy authentic jewellery, goan spices, apparels as well as fenny from this market and take home some souvenirs. With the wide range of experiences the city offers you will run out of time but not activities.

Read More
Casino Pride (Majestic Pride)

Another amazing casino life could be experienced at Casino Pride (Majestic Pride) which has its anchor tied down in Mandovi river. The casino boat has the best of the facilities and services having well-trained staff, delicious meals and a good range of drinks making it one of the best places to visit in North Goa in 1 day.

Basilica Of Bom Jesus

The oldest withstanding Church of Goa, beautifully built under the influence of Portuguese architectural style, is one of the best places to visit in Panjim. The lovely marble floor embellished with valuable stones adds up to the charm of the magnificent church. The cathedral of the Church holds the remains of St. Xavier's in a silver casket which is elegantly decorated and, worshiped by his devotees.

Church Of The Immaculate Conception Of The Virgin Mary

Sitting, right in the middle of the hillock this mighty church has three shrines of Mary, Our Lady of the Rosary and, Crucifixion of Jesus. Being the first church to built-in Goa it holds utmost significance in its tourism and, adding up to the most attractive places to visit in Panjim.

Previously, it was just a chapel in the early 15th century but, with time and tide, the chapel went through many transformations and, led to this massive structure which is elegantly built with influences of several architectural styles.

Location:
 North-Eastern Side of Central Square, Panjim 403001, India

Timings: 
All days 10 AM - 12:30 PM and 4 PM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fees: 
Free

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: 
Approximately 1.6 km away.

 Casino Royale Goa

This place will “blow your mind” as here casino floats on water. Deltin has modern and classy casinos which are undoubtedly the most happening ones. There are numerous floors sprawling over an area of 40,000 square feet with various sections to keep people engaged of all ages. With 123 gaming tables here, you can play all sorts of gambling games be it Poker, Teen Patti, Black Jack, and many more variants.

While you enjoy the gambling, you can also savor exclusive liquors at the whiskey lounge with amazing hand-rolled cigars. The casino provides all the top-notch amenities and, is the ace in the field of the casinos. Undoubtedly it is one of the most happening places to visit in Panjim.
One can also relax in VIP gaming suites where one can stay as well as play. The highlighting feature of the casino is that it is the only place with a dedicated poker room.

Location: 
Noah's Ark, RND Jetty, Dayanand Bandodkar Road, Panaji, Goa 403001

Timings: 
Open 24 hrs

Entry Fees: 
Monday to Thursday    Rs 2500/-   
                    Friday to Sunday
         Rs 3500/-

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: 
Approximately 1.6 km away

Fort Aguada

Showcasing the glory of the Portuguese empire this fort stands overlooking the Arabian sea. Built in the early 16th century to keep an eye on the enemies this fort give breathtaking views and, is one of the most majestic places to visit in Panjim.

The mystifying structure is more than 400 years old and still, its majestic beauty remains intact. It also houses a lighthouse which was built to guide the ships and, another part is the Aguada Jail which is one of the largest jails in Goa.
The location of the mighty fort is strategic so that it provides great defense from the rivals.

Location:
Fort Aguada Rd, Aguada Fort Area, Candolim, Goa 403515

Timings:
8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Entry Fees:
Free

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand:
Approximately 15 km

Goa Archaeological Museum

This “Architectural Marvel” showcases the artifacts of the Portuguese rule in India, with eight unique galleries exhibiting different slices of the pre-historic era of Portuguese sways. The most significant of these are deemed to be the paintings of the long-dead Governors and, Administrators of Goa.

To add up to the amusement of the visitors, the museum also has a remarkable collection of stamps, religious artifacts, and other such hidden gems. This is a perfect place to dig up the history of the Goan culture and styles in the early ages.

Location: 
EDC Complex, Patto, Panaji, Goa 403001

Timings: 
9:00 AM- 5:00 PM

Entry Fees: 
Only Rs 5/- per person

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: 
Approximately 9 km

St. Augustin Towers

The historic gem of Goa - “St. Augustin Tower ” is a highly visible belfry from many sites. The sumptuous tower was built in the preceding years of 16th Century by the Augustinian pilgrims who visited Goa, the same time. Previously, there were four such towers but they couldn't withstand the time and got depreciated. Now, only one such tower stands there in the premises of the St. Augustine Church.

The purpose of this tower was to serve as a turret and, the Church had eight lavishly embellished chapels, four altars and a cloister with numerous cells connected to it.
The style and designing of this tower are still unknown but it is purely astounding.

Location: 
Church of St. Augustine Ruins, Velha Goa, Goa 403402

Timings: 
Throughout the day

Entry Fees: 
No entry fee

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand:  
Approximately 8.4 km

Se Cathedral
Visiting Goa and missing out on this Church?No Chance. It is one of the most impressive churches in India lying in the Southern segment of Goa. This mighty church showcases mind-boggling artistry of the Portuguese-Manueline style and, is regarded as the only specimen of this kind of architectural style.

Dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria this is an amazing Church with impressive courtyards and elegantly arched interiors.
The remarkable feature of this old standing church is the “ huge golden bell” which is one of the most prominent and grand bells in the world.It is a perfect place to experience a blend of tranquility and serenity as it is intermixed in the aura of the Cathedral.

Location: 
Velha, Goa 403402

Timings: 
7:00 AM - 6:30 PM

Entry Fees: 
Free

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: 
Approximately 9.2 km
St. Cajetan Church

Witness the visual retreat at the St. Cajetan Church also known as the “Church of Our Lady of Divine Providence”. The Church exhibits the Corinthian style of architecture which was taken up by the Italian friars, though they were not allowed to work here somehow they managed in Old Goa. Taking a glance at this holy structure it has six Baroque style altars on which you can locate visions of angels.

The minute you enter this place you can actually feel the purity and, pious environs all around you.
You can also discover remarkable Italian compositions which extend an intriguing impression of St. Cajetan’s time and, this architectural gem of Corinthian style is a popular tourist place in Panjim.

Location: 
Velha Goa, Goa 403402

Timings: 
All days of  Week 
               9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Entry Fees: 
Absolutely Free!

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand: 
Approximately 12.5 km

Reis Magos Fort

Seated on the banks of Mandovi this majestic fort serves as a turret.This massive structure has been resized twice just to increase its size for a better view of the entire city. Due to its huge size, it can be seen from any point from the Mandovi river.

The artistry of the craftsmen is worth-watching as the fort has various jaw-dropping interiors which are beautifully carved.
Moreover, the view from the fort is just beyond one's imagination with endless waters fused with beautiful displays.

Location:
Verem, Bardez, Goa 403114

Timings:
Tuesday to Sunday
                9:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Entry Fees:
Rs.  50 per person for Adults.
                    Rs.  25 per person for Students
                    Rs. 10 per person on Sundays and Goa Govt. Holidays

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand:
Approximately 7 km

Odxel Beach

The Odxel Beach is a small beach with relaxing and positive surroundings. Lying at the center of Dona Paula and Bambolim this beach is a frequent spot by the tourists. Though it is not a good option to swim as there have been instances of underwater currents but it has a peaceful environment.

It is a perfect place where one can indulge in self-analysis due to the picturesque offerings accompanied by a chapel right next to the beach and, is one of the most attractive places to see in Panjim.

Location:
Near the Bainguinim Town, Panjim, India

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand:
Approximately 7.7 km

Shri Mahalaxmi Temple

The Place with high Spiritual importance”- Shri Mahalaxmi temple is situated in the Bandora village. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s consort Mahalaxmi and, has a modern structure. As soon as you enter the worship place you will be welcomed by elegant carvings and, a beautifully decorated arch with two elephants.

The walls of the worship place adorned beautiful paintings and the ceilings will leave you awestruck with alluring antique chandeliers.
At the time of Mahashivratri, the main idol of Mahalaxmi is taken out from the premises and carried on the shoulders by the devotees.

Location:
Situated next to Mushtifund Sansthan Panaji, Dada Vaidya Road, Panaji, Goa 403001

Timings:
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Entry Fees:
Free

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand:
Approximately 2 km

Corjuem Fort

Even after being one of the smallest forts in Goa, Corjuem fort has made his place in the most visited places in Goa. Surrounded by unusually stunning swathes of Goan culture, this fort survived till 21st century and, is one of the best places to see in Panjim.

It is one of the most visually appealing tourist places in Panjim with rich historic pieces of evidence. This majestic fort was built for increasing the defense power of the colonists, being square in shape.
Even after being weathered and deteriorated the fort still stands beautifully and, is a major point of attraction.

Location:
Off Aldona-Corjuem Road, Corjuem, Goa 403508

Timings:
24 Hrs Open

Entry Fees:
Free

Distance from Panjim Bus Stand:
Approximately 19 km

Our Partners

Panjim Things To Do FAQs

What are the best things to do in Panjim?

1. Visit Immaculate Conception Church: Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church is situated in Panjim and visited by travellers seeking for some peace amidst the chaos of Goa. The church is built in  Portuguese Baroque style, has a white facade and sits on a small hillock.
The bell at the church is the second largest in Goa and is known to be taken from the Augustinian ruins of the Church of Our Lady of Grace. Church also organises a mass every day in English, Portuguese and Konkani. When looking for things to do in Panjim, visiting this church is a must.
Location: R. Emidio Garcia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001
Timings: Church masses are at these times

Weekdays –
7:00 am (Konkani)
8:00 am (English)
6:00 pm (Konkani)

Sundays –
7:00 am (Konkani)
8:15 am (English)
9:30 am (Children’s mass)
10:30 am (Portuguese)
5:30 pm (Konkani)

2. Explore the Fontainhas: Explore the beautiful Fontainhas, the capital of Panjim’s Latin quarter. The lanes of this quarter showses colorful houses that are built in Portuguese. This quarter was built back in the 18th century and lies on the OuremCreek.
Take a relaxing stroll through these lanes and shop from the local shops and vendors here. You can even stop and eat at the many charming restaurants and cafes in Fontainhas which offer delicious food. Overall visiting this place is amongst the must things to do in Panjim to travel back to the history of the place.

3. Try Local Cuisine: If you are a foodie and are looking to indulge in amazing Goan cuisines then Panjim won’t disappoint you. Panjim has many restaurants and cafes that are famous for their authentic Goan preparations as well as cuisines from all around the world.
All seafood lovers will have a blast here as the fish curry, prawn curry, crabs, lobsters and many other delicious seafood items are available here. When in Panjim you should definitely try Galouti Kebab and Lamb chops at The Awadh house or Tangdi Kulfi and Dal Awadh. TATAKI is another famous restaurant that offers delicious local cuisine.

4. Visit Art Galleries: All the history and art lovers will fall in love with the amazing art galleries Panjim has. You can visit Gallery Gitanjali which is one of Goa’s oldest galleries, housing Scandinavian art from the 1950s to the 1990s. This contemporary art gallery organises several workshops as well as offers courses.
You can also visit  Mario Gallery for its wide collection of artifacts and prints of Mario’s cartoons. Or you can spend some time at Sunaparanta, which is a non-profit gallery that makes art accessible to people. One can never get bored in Panjim as there are so many answers to the question: what to do in Panjim?

5. Day Tour to Divar Island: A Day Tour to Divar Island is one of the best things to do in Panjim. This is a gorgeous island that is surrounded by gorgeous blue water and has a wide range of flora and fauna. The relaxing atmosphere of the island away from the hustle of the cities makes it a great place to unwind.
This island was earlier a Hindu pilgrimage site with many temples and here you see the rural part of Goa in four villages. Some of the must visit tourist attractions of the place include Our Lady Of Piety, Shaktivinayak Ganesh temple, Diwadi, Wonderful Old Homes including Island House and Classic Ferry experience. Island can easily be reached by taking a ferry or bus into the town.
Location: Lies in the Mandovi river in the Indian state of Goa

6. Enjoy Nightlife in Panjim: If you are a night owl and are wondering what to do in Panjim at night, then you won’t be disappointed. This beautiful city of Goa has a hip nightlife and offers you all types of experiences including fine dining, karaoke nights, hip clubs, live music and everything else. One of the places that you should visit in Panjim at night is Joseph Bar.
This bar offers great beers as well as Kombucha, which is a locally made drink. If you want to enjoy live music or karaoke then Down the Road is the place to be. And if you want to dance the night away and enjoy having a lavish experience then  SOHO is a must visit place. That’s not all, you can even go to a casino and have some fun time gambling for money.

7. Water sports at Coco Beach: Coco beach is one of the most famous beaches in Goa and is known for the amazing opportunity of watersports it offers to the visitors. When here you can indulge in things to do in Panjim like surfing, jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, kite surfing, etc.
If you are looking for more of a relaxing time while indulging in watersports then banana boat rides as well as boating are great options. At this beach there are plenty of shops selling equipment required  for watersports as well as trainers who will teach you the correct technique and help you out before and during the activity.

8. Shopping at Panjim Market: When it comes to shopping, Goa will never disappoint you. From colorful clothes to silver jewellery and from antiques to wines, cashew nuts as well as local handicrafts, Panjim market won’t disappoint you. You can also purchase the famous Goan drink feni from the market along with fresh fruits and vegetables.
You will also be able to find Goan spices in abundance at these markets which makes the Goan cuisine so delicious. While shopping at the market you can stop at the many eateries that are lined up across the market and indulge in some delicious sea food as well as local dishes.
Location: General Bernardo Guedes Rd, 2nd Phase, New Municipal Market, Panaji, Goa 403001, India
Timings: 7:00AM - 8:00PM everyday

9. Panjim River Cruise: If you want to experience the amazing waters of Arabian sea in the most exquisite manner then take a Panjim river cruise is one of the things to do in Panjim. Cruise on the mandovi river and observe the beautiful surroundings of Goa.
Taking this cruise at sunset will offer splendid views of the horizon and will leave you with unforgettable memories. There are also plenty of options of entertainment on the cruises like music, singing and dancing performances by artists. You will also be provided with delicious food and some refreshing drinks. All in all, a trip to Goa is incomplete without going on a cruise.
Location: Mandovi river
Timings: 6 PM- 8PM
Price: INR 600

10. Drink Beer at Joseph Bar: If you are visiting Goa with your friends and wondering what to do in Panjim at night, then you will not be disappointed as the city has a great nightlife. You can spend the night chilling with your friends at the Joseph bar, which offers great home brewed beer, fenny as well as Kombucha.
It is a very hip bar with cool colorful interiors as well as funky decor. You can also grab some quick bites here and enjoy the warm hospitality. If you are looking for some happening place to spend the night in Panjim, then you must visit this bar.
Location: Gomes Pereira Road, Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001
Timings: 11AM to 11PM
Price: Approx cost for two without alcohol is 700 INR

What are the best watersports to do in Panjim?

1. Scuba Diving: Explore the beautiful and colorful marine life of the Arabian sea by option of scuba diving in Panjim. You will be able to explore a school of different fishes as well as several coral reefs. You will be provided with proper training of the activity and everything will be done under expert guidance.

2. Snorkeling: If you are not a daredevil at heart but still want to observe the amazing marine life, then you can opt for snorkelling. Unlike scuba diving, snorkelling is done at the surface of water and still offers a great view of the underwater world. Snorkelling in the soothing waters is one of the best things to do in Panjim.

3. Dolphin Watching: If you want to witness the most playful aquatic animal at its best, Dolphin, then you should take a Dolphin watching tour in Panjim. Dolphins are very friendly and get happy seeing humans. You can take pictures and videos of the beautiful creatures playing around in the water.

4. Banana Boat Ride: A sport that is suitable if you are travelling with in a group and want to have some fun time in water. In this activity, individuals sit on a huge inflated boat shaped in the form of a banana and are taken in between the sea with the help of a boat. After that, they have to coordinate with each other and stay afloat.

5. Jet Skiing: If you are seeking some thrill in the waters then jet skiing is a great activity. Move on the waters at great speed and feel the splashes in your face. This activity can be done if you are an experienced person or you can do it with a guide.

What are the romantic things to do in Panjim?

1. Explore Fontainhas: Fontainhas is a beautiful latin quarter which has narrow lanes with colorful houses that are built in portuguese style. Exploring this beautiful town on foot with your partner is going to be the most romantic experience. You will get to witness the history of the town and also the present day attractions. There are many cafes and eateries that offer delicious food and a small romantic setting. 

2. Take a trip to Divar Island: Divar island is a gorgeous beautiful island that is lush green and has plenty of flora and fauna. You can visit this island with your partner by taking a ferry. The island offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere so that you can enjoy some moments of peace with your partner. There are plenty of attractions here as well as restaurants where you can go for a romantic date.

3. Take the blessings at Se Cathedral: Visit the Se Cathedral and take in the blessing of almighty and seek some peace in the calming atmosphere. This cathedral has beautiful white architecture and is visited by many tourists everyday. This is one of Goa's most beautiful and old churches.

4. Mandovi River Cruise: If you want to indulge in the most romantic experience in Panjim then taking the Mandovi river cruise with your partner is the best option. On this cruise you can watch the beautiful sun go down, hands in hands with your partner while sipping on some great drinks. Cruises also offer a lot of entertainment on board including DJ, dances as well as music performances.

What is the best time to visit Panjim?

The best time to visit Panjim will be from mid- October to early April. At this time of the year, the city experiences a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging between 25 to 30 degree celsius.
This makes it easy for travellers to explore the attractions as well as indulge in the many water activities. The peak season is during December to February and if you are planning to visit at this time then please make all your booking in advance. 

How to reach Panjim?

You can reach Panjim by various means including:

Flight: Goa International Airport is just 11km away from Panjim and it receives flights from all the major cities of India.

Train: Panjim doesn’t have its own railway station and can be reached by taking a train to Thivim , Karmali , Madgaon stations.

What are the best things to buy from Panjim?

Panjim has various markets and each of them offer something unique. The best things to buy from Panjim include: 

  • Goan spices
  • Colourful bags
  • Street style and boutique apparel
  • Beaded ornaments
  • Local handicrafts items
  • Cashew nuts
  • Fenny
  • Wines

Is Panjim worth visiting?

Panjim is the smallest state capital in India but has a lot in store for travellers. The beautiful city is known to offer the perfect Goan vibes through its attractions, activities as well as cuisine.
When in Panjim you can explore the beautiful latin quarter of Fontainhas or visit the former pilgrimage island, Divar Island. Panjim even offers cruising opportunities to travellers. All in all, you will not be bored for even a second wondering what to do in Panjim, as the city has so much to offer. 

What are the best things to do at night in Panjim?

1. Gamble at the Floating Casinos: Apart from its fantastic beaches, Goa is known in the entire world for its casinos. One of the best casinos in Goa, Deltin Royale sails on Mandovi river and offers plenty of gambling opportunities to the visitors. Spread in a whopping area of 4000 sq ft, the casino has 123 gaming tables for people to indulge in many games like Baccarat, Roulette, Andar Bahar, Rashi Wheel, 3 Card Poker, 5 Card Poker, Mini Flush, Mang Patta, Black Jack.

2. Chill at Taverna Pub:  Taverna is one of the most lively pubs of Panjim and offers a great vibe to the visitors. The beautiful interiors, push location as well as delicious food served here are the main highlights. The pub even hosts DJ nights, live music as well as karaoke nights on weekends.

3. Sip some draught Beer: Joseph Bar is one of the most famous bars of Panjim, famous for its home brewed beer as well as wines. The drinking options at the bar are plenty and you will have a great time chilling here with your friends. The bar has a hip vibe and stays packed with crowds at all times.

4. Visit the first English Pub of Goa: Cafe mojo is the first English pub of Goa and is very famous amongst the locals as well as tourists. The place has shady interiors and is the first eBeer pub. You can pour your own beer from the machines and it can be paid by ML and not glasses. The amazing service and the delicious Goan food served here are the highlights.

Where can I go for backwater Kayaking in Panaji?

Kayaking in Goa is one of the best ways to explore the natural landscapes, pristine backwaters and the incredible flora & fauna. Also, kayaking in Goa is a treat for the bird watchers as it offers the opportunity to spot some rare and gorgeous birds. Here arebest places to go for backwater Kayaking in Panaji:

  •       Kayaking at Aguada river
  •       Backwater Kayaking at Sylvan Siridao
  •       Backwater Kayaking at Chorao
  •       Kayaking at the Bat Island
  •       Kayaking through the Nerul Creek
  •       Backwater Kayaking in River Mandovi

Newly Added Panjim Experiences

Panjim Things To Do Reviews

Traveller image gallery
review-img
Kundan
Reviewed: 11 Jan 2023
5.0/5
It was an amazing experience of being on the cruise for your dinner along with music dinner dance and drinks. 2 hr event which was very well managed and i had one of the best experience of my Goa trip. I will return next year. Thank you Throphillia. Really appreciate the hardwork and your management... Read More
Kundan
Kundan
Kundan
Kundan
Kundan
Kundan
(5+)View All
review-img
Pratyusha Polisetti
Reviewed: 28 Oct 2023
5.0/5
Hassle free booking and great experience. Thank you Thrillophillia for making our travel a memorable one.
Pratyusha Polisetti
Pratyusha Polisetti
Pratyusha Polisetti
Pratyusha Polisetti
Pratyusha Polisetti
review-img
Harish Vijay
Reviewed: 22 Oct 2023
5.0/5
Very nice place to visit and enjoyed a lot
Harish Vijay
Harish Vijay
Harish Vijay
Harish Vijay
Harish Vijay
review-img
Dhaivat Anjaria
Reviewed: 02 Jun 2023
4.0/5
Nice serene ride with active hosts
Dhaivat Anjaria
Dhaivat Anjaria
Dhaivat Anjaria
Dhaivat Anjaria
Dhaivat Anjaria
review-img
SAGAR WAINGANKAR
Reviewed: 24 Apr 2023
4.0/5
The atmosphere was filled with fun, music, dance and excitement and we had an absolutely great night! After all, everyone knows, if it's Goa, it's Casino Pride.
SAGAR WAINGANKAR
SAGAR WAINGANKAR
SAGAR WAINGANKAR
SAGAR WAINGANKAR
SAGAR WAINGANKAR
review-img
Nagaraj N
Reviewed: 23 Apr 2023
4.0/5
It was great experience and entirely new world all your staff and hospitality was amazing….
Nagaraj N
Nagaraj N
Nagaraj N
Nagaraj N
Nagaraj N

Popular Related Destinations

Why Choose Thrillophilia