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Panaji is more like a Portuguese market town than a throbbing urban sprawl of a typical Indian City. It has a lot a character, & Shopping & Sightseeing during a leisurely morning or a late afternoon is highly recommended. Probably, the best time to visit Panaji is first thing at the morning when markets are at their liveliest & the sun is not too hot for strolling. The Portuguese moved their capital during their 450 years rule in Goa from old Goa, which was their first base to Panaji, 10 kms away, after it had become a breeding ground for disease. Wide tree lined boulevards, winding residential alleys, waterways; warm & hospitable people, restaurants & interesting shops are the making of Panaji or Panjim as it more popularly known.

Miramar Beach
Panaji's nearest beach is only 3 km west of the city, stretching towards Cabo Raj Bhawan. It's popular escape for local people & popular meeting place. Great for a stroll at sunset.

Old Goa
Old Goa, 9 km east of Panaji, is outstanding. On the banks of the Mandovi river stand centuries - old complex of magnificent churches, monasteries & convents; the remains of the once mighty colonial capital which controlled the trade of Portugal's for-flung overseas empire.

St. Francis Xavier
The Spanish born Francisco Xavier was among the founders of the Jesuit order & sent to Asia by the king of Portugal in 1942. Much revered, he spent three years in Southern India before traveling east to the Portuguese colony of Malacca & Japan. He died in 1552 while trying to reach China. He was the first buried in Malacca, then disinterred & his remains were brought back to Goa. His embalmed body is preserved in a huge silver casket, which has three locks - the keys of which are held by the Governor, the archbishop & the convent administrator.

Basilica of Bom Jesus
Opposite the Se Cathedral complex, the basilica church of God Jesus, built by the Jesuits & crumbling plaster. Within, the tomb of St. Francis Xavier is Goa's holiest relic. Carved in jasper depicting the saint's life. The Duke of Tuscany presented it to the church in 1698.

Mormugao
This is one of the best natural harbours on India's west coast. Under the Portuguese rule it had little importance, but since, it has become Goa's most important seaport and is also used by the Indian Navy. Through this port, millions of tons of iron ore are exported each year, and is one of western India's biggest oil refineries. A passenger ferry across the mouth of the Zuari connects Mormugao with Dona Paula.

Bogmalo
This beach was one of the first in Goa to be developed for tourism. It is dominated by Goa's first luxury Hotel at its Southern end by beachside restaurants, bars & souvenir stores along its sandy crescent.