Panjim – A Piece of Portugal in India
Wednesday, July 1, 2009 14:39Introduction
Panjim or Panaji, the capital of Goa is a beautiful city on the banks of river Mandovi. The city is covered with laid back avenues, lined with beautiful trees; old Portuguese styled red-roofed houses, and well landscaped gardens. The city was named Panjim by the Portuguese, who had ruled Goa and the name means a land that does not flood. The city is now locally known as Panaji. Unlike most capital cities in India, Panaji is laid back and away from the usual hustle of the capital cities. The entire city is a reminiscence of the Portuguese rule, with beautiful villas, whitewashed houses on the riverside with beautiful balconies and old government buildings with distinct Portuguese architecture. Panjim actually became the capital only in the year 1843 and many tourists ignore Panjim and move on to other destinations in Goa, but this charming town is worth a visit, even if it is for a day.
Getting There
By Air: Panjim, although is the capital city of Goa, does not have an airport. The nearest airport is located approximately 30 kilometres away in Vasco De Gama, known as Dabolim airport. The airport is catered by flights, such as Kingfisher Airlines, Air Deccan and Indian Airlines and is connected to many destinations in India, such as Bangalore, Jaipur and Mumbai.
By Rail: One can either get down at Mapusa or at a small railway station known as Karmali. From any one of the places one can easily get local transport to reach Panaji.
By Road: Panjim is well connected by road to many nearby cities, such as Bangalore, Mangalore, Pune and Mumbai. There are regular bus services available to and fro from anyone of these cities to Panjim. There are government and private operated buses available. The national highway number 17 cuts across Goa and this route from Mumbai to Panjim can be quite scenic.
Panjim is a small town so most places can be explored on foot. However, there are auto rickshaws available for travelling within Panjim and buses and taxis are available for sightseeing of nearby places. The best way to get around is of course on hired motorbikes and scooters. The motorbikes and scooters are easily available on rent, most hotels and restaurants can arrange for one. They cost anywhere between Rs 150 to Rs 400 per day. You will need to have a valid license to hire the bikes.
