Since 1843, Panaji, still looks and feels like a sleepy Portuguese town. Set along the southern bank of the salty Mandovi river, Panaji is among the most pleasant Indian capitals. Though most people use it as a linkage to old Goa or to the beaches, it's worth a visit. The atmosphere is easygoing and the people are friendly. But in reality, Goans are hardworking, full of song, dance and merriment.
Tourism is the main money-spinner and the majority of the population is engaged in related business.
The recent discovery of iron in the hills to the east has also generated considerable revenue, and the economy is further fuelled by the stream of remittance cheques sent home by expatriate Goans working in Mumbai and the Gulf states.