Panaji city is the state capital of Goa. It is also known as 'Panjim' among the locals. Panaji, means the land that does not flood. Unlike many other capital cities, Panaji has a distinct relaxed character. It is a small city and one of the most charming capital cities in India. It officially became the capital of Goa in 1843. It is an important commercial, educational and cultural core where all these elements peacefully co-exist.

Panaji is a well-known tourist center and is known for its prominent churches, which are there in this city. Though one may not find tall skyscrapers there, the town boasts of having preserved its historical buildings and at the same time it has modern structures. Two important beaches nearby are Miramar are Dona Paula. Panaji can boast of the first multiplex in Goa (INOX) and is also the default venue for the International Film Festival of India held annually (IFFI).

The heart of the city is the Church Square or Municipal Garden with the Portuguese Baroque Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, originally built in 1541. Other tourist attractions include the old and rebuilt Adil Shah Palace (or Idalcao palace), dating from the sixteenth century, the Menezes Braganza Institute and the Central Library, the Mahalaxmi Temple, the Jama Masjid mosque, the Chapel of St. Sebastian and the Fontainhas, area in general which is considered to be the Old Latin Quarter. Hanuman temple at Mala on hill top (Altinho) and its annual fair in February is a major attraction of the Panaji. Kala Academy cultural centre known for its structure built by architect Charles Correa is another place worth visiting in Panaji. Kala Academy is a place where Goa showcases its culture and art.

Reaching Panaji

By Air

Dabolim Airport is the nearest airport from the city of Panaji. The airport is located at a distance of 30 kms. Travelers can hire a cab from the airport to reach the city or nearby beaches. The taxi counters can be fount at the arrival gates after baggage pickup.

By Road

Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka state transport corporations operate from Panaji. There are other private operators too who run buses for inter state and intra state transportation. Panaji is well connected with other major neighboring cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Mangalore and Bangalore. Buses to Margao and Mapusa are very frequent as they are important commercial centers and are well connected to Panaji.

By Road

Karmali is the nearest railway station from Panaji city. Although not all trains halt at Karmali, they definitely halt at Margao. There are buses, rickshaws and taxis available at Margao and Karmali to travel to Panaji. Karmali station is 7 kms. away from the city of Panaji and is also close to Old Goa. Karmali station also has a reservation counter where tourists can book tickets for their return journey.