Panjim holidays

With its Portuguese churches, old cobbled districts and nearby beaches, holidays to Panjim – Goa's charming capital – are perfect for both sightseeing and chillout time.

India’s answer to Portugal

Imagine an old Portuguese town, add a few hundred tuk tuks and coconut palms and you’ve got Panjim. Charming and laid back, Goa’s capital covers off an old town where cobbled streets knit together red-roofed bars and pastel-coloured shops. It sits on the southern banks of the Mandovi River, and has beaches that rival Portugal’s praias.

Bays and beaches

When the sea calls, drive 10 minutes south of the city centre to the gold stretch of coastline at Miramar. Here, the waters are calm enough for swimming and, on a clear day, you can see across the water to the Aguada Fort in Candolim. If you’re after something more secluded, drive a further 10 minutes down the coast and you’ll find a string of sandy coves lining the hammer-shaped headland near Dona Paula.

Churches, temples and mosques

A mix of religions live side by side in this city – and you’ll notice it on the streets. Majestic Hindu temples sit next to pretty whitewashed Christian churches and elaborate Mosques – and they even share tips. You can spot Renaissance architecture in Goan temples, and Christian prayers are often sung in the local language, Konkani.

A daytrip with a difference

A two-hour drive away from Panjim, nestled in the jungle, you’ll find Dudhsagar Falls. Here, the Mandovi River cascades an impressive 300 metres down an almost vertical rock face into a deep green pool. You can take a dip in the water, or find a spot on the edge to capture some pictures. Monkeys swing between the branches surrounding the water, and you’ll have the chance to get close to them if you’re willing to share your lunch.