Goa, Panaji. Description, sights, reviews

On the shore of the Arabian Sea, at the mouth of the Mandovi River, is the picturesque capital of Goa - Panaji. A city with a centuries-old history, once the former administrative center of Portuguese India. Panaji can not be compared to the multi- urban cities of India, such as Mumbai, Calcutta and Bangalore. It is a cozy town with small narrow streets and small houses, preserved from ancient times, a modern port, churches, temples and numerous architectural monuments, each of which is unique and has its own history. The capital of Panaji is rich in interesting places.

sights

The city has, for centuries, surprisingly combined in itself diametrically opposed cultural traditions and epochs. In this unusual place wonderfully intertwined culture of ancient India with the legacy of more modern Portugal.

Residents of European countries who visit Panaji for the first time immediately feel a special atmosphere reigning in the city. The narrow streets lined with stone, Catholic churches and cozy cafeterias with tables on the terrace remind more of the picturesque corners of Europe than the country of the distant East. That's why for Europeans the capital of Goa Panaji is almost the second home.

Spiritual Heritage

In the city there are many amazing places to visit. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception of the Mother of God of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the main attractions. This beautiful building with several baroque towers and a belfry was erected in 1541.

The Maruti Temple, dedicated to Hanuman, a devotee of Lord Ramacandra, is located in a picturesque place, on a hillside, from which there are magnificent views of Panaji and its surrounding areas.

In a small chapel of St. Sebastian built in the eighties of the 19th century, first of all it is necessary to turn your eyes to the unique crucifix that was formerly located in the Palace of the Inquisition of Old Goa. Jesus Christ, crucified on the cross, is wide open, although it is strictly forbidden to depict it in this manner. Perhaps this spectacle should have horrified the hearts of sinners who appeared before the imminent punishment.

One more unique place in Panaji - Mahalakshmi temple deserves special attention. This shrine, erected in 1818, was the first in India, which for the entire 300-year history of colonization the Portuguese were allowed to build on Goa. Today the abode of the goddess Lakshmi, the owner of all visible and invisible riches, is considered the main Hindu shrine of Panaji. A huge number of pilgrims visit the temple every day, pray and give her various gifts.

Unique monuments

An architectural monument - a statue of Abbot Faria - is no less famous landmark of the city. Faria is one of the founders of such an amazing phenomenon as hypnosis. This monument, according to local residents, personifies a trance session.

Not only such unusual creations can be seen on Goa. Panaji is an ancient territory, on which many historical monuments have been preserved. You can see them, wandering through the colorful streets of old districts with many unique architectural buildings in a special original style. Arriving in Panaji, you should definitely look into the Goa museum, where you can see numerous exhibits in 15 thematic exhibitions, telling about the difficult life and history of the state.

Neighborhoods of the city

Panaji neighborhoods are also interesting. Be sure to go to the waterfall Dudhsagar, which is considered the second highest in India. A distinctive feature of this reservoir is that its waters are not traditionally blue, but transparent white. That is why it is also called the "Milk Ocean". On the way to the waterfall, you can look into the reserve with a lot of exotic animals, freely living in their usual habitat.

Panaji Beach (Goa)

One of the most popular holiday destinations is North Goa. Reviews of tourists are worthy of confirmation. Travelers from all countries visit this corner of India every year for various purposes. After all, there are not only interesting architectural structures and temples here. Among the main attractions of Panaji are picturesque beaches, a pearl and pride of the city. Special beauty and landscapes fascinate holidaymakers.

On the beaches of Panaji, there are many cozy bars, cafes and restaurants. In the sea waters of the city there live unique species of mammals. Diving lovers will spend their time here for fun. Underwater magic world of North Goa (Panaji) will not leave indifferent avid travelers.

The coastlines of Dona Paula and Miramar are some of the most beautiful beaches located on the southern outskirts of the city. The magnificent nature of this region has often attracted film crews from local film studios. Beaches here with snow-white sand and crystal clear water, they are comfortably equipped for a full rest of tourists. On the Panaji coasts, however, as well as in the city itself, a huge number of Hollywood films, Indian TV shows and clips were filmed.

Traveler Reviews

Especially popular with holidaymakers is North Goa. Testimonials of tourists indicate that this is the best place for a relaxing holiday and visiting interesting sights. There are also entertainment here. Therefore, both young people and couples with children will have great pleasure from staying at this wonderful resort.

The beach of Vainguinim, which is located 7 km from Panaji - the capital of Goa, attracts tourists with turquoise overflows. Numerous bays in these places reliably protect it from storms and strong waves. The wide shoreline is covered with clean sand. It is difficult to injure stones and thorns. That's why many people come here with young children. At Vainguinima, you can spend unforgettable time enjoying the sea and the taste of exotic cocktails. On the beaches of Goa (Panaji) there is always an amazing atmosphere!