Panaji is the capital city of the Indian state, Goa. This charming city is also known as 'Panjim' among the locals. The word ‘Panaji, means the land that does not flood. Two important beaches nearby are Miramar and Dona Paula. The city also houses the first multiplex in Goa (INOX). This is also the venue for the International Film Festival of India held annually (IFFI).
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Panaji[/caption]
The Bishops Palace at Altinho, Maruti Temple, Mahalaxmi Temple, Customs Museum, Santa Monica Jetty Boat Rides, Old GMC Complex and Salida Del Sol (hotel) are the main attractions in Panaji. Panaji is a well developed city in Goa. This city is also famous for its casinos especially the Casino Caravela. Other attractions here include Church of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Goa State Museum, Secretariat Building, a colonial monumental heritage, Public Observatory and Institute Menezes Braganza.
You can go for a one hour long cruise on Mandovi river, which has live bands performing for the guests. Tickets cost Rs 150 which can be taken from near the Mandovi bridge. Especially on full moon nights two hours cruises can be enjoyed. From Mid October to the end of April, open sea ‘dolphin cruises’ are also conducted. These cruising cost Rs 300 per head.
The main restaurants here are Spicy Bella Pizza for great Italian food, a Ferradura serving authentic Portuguese cuisine and Ruchira a multi cuisine restaurant with a well stocked bar and Rajshahi restaurant serving Punjabi and Mughlai dishes.
The city also offers great shopping options. You can authentic Goan handicrafts from Aparant, the handicraft store. Another famous marketplace in Panaji city is Panjim market, where fresh sea food can be bought. Velha Goa Galeria and De Goa Ceramics are the best place to buy local hand-painted ceramics.
The nearest major airport to Panaji is Goa International Airport. This airport is in Vasco da Gama, 72 km from the city centre. The nearest railway station to Panaji and goa is the Madgaon railway station. The best time to visit Panaji is between late October and early April during which the city has very pleasant temperature.