Fontainhas Entry Fee
- No entry fee
Fontainhas Phone
N/A
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| 4/5 stars
Based on total 26 reviews
Fontainhas Address: Altinho, Panaji, Goa, 403001, India
Goa Fontainhas is a unique cultural gem famous for its vibrance and beauty. It’s an old Latin quarter that speaks volumes about Goa’s rich colonial past. This colourful neighbourhood is a treasure trove of history and culture, exuding a charm that mesmerises everyone.
Its name is derived from Fonte Phoenix (or Fountain of Phoenix), a water reservoir constructed nearby by the Portuguese. The place maintains its Portuguese colonial influence, particularly through its architecture. Its old pastel-coloured buildings, with ornate balconies, provide you a glimpse into Goa’s past. It’s a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese influences.
This beautiful heritage neighbourhood is located near Altinho Hill in Panjim, the capital of Goa. It has narrow, picturesque, winding streets like those in many European cities. And a guided heritage walk is the best way to explore Fontainhas’ lanes.
History of Fontainhas Goa
Fontainhas Goa's history goes back to the late 18th century. The area was founded by Antonio Joao de Sequeira, a wealthy Goan expatriate who had made his fortune in Mozambique.
The neighbourhood was historically divided by class, with wealthier residents occupying large bungalows on the hill. The less affluent inhabitants began living in the more densely populated lower areas, which today form the charismatic Fontainhas Goa.
If you’re interested in Goa’s diverse cultural heritage, Fontainhas is a must-visit destination. As you stroll through its picturesque lanes, you’ll feel like walking across a bridge between past and present.
Things to do in Fontainhas Goa
1. Walking through the colourful streets – Walking is the best way to explore the place. Prepare for a feast for your eyes as you take Fontainhas heritage walk Goa. Ornate balconies and weathered wooden window frames whisper stories from centuries ago. Every turn reveals a new splash of colour, painting a picture of Goa's unique heritage. Keep your camera ready to capture all the vivid details.
2. Visiting the centuries-old chapel – The Chapel of St. Sebastian is a prominent landmark in Fontainhas. It was built in 1818 to commemorate the end of the Portuguese Inquisition in Goa. It has a simple and elegant whitewashed facade and a striking wooden interior. The most notable feature of the chapel is the crucifix, which shows Christ's eyes wide open.
3. Exploring art galleries and museums – Fontainhas is your playground for enjoying the local art and culture of Goa. The chic Gitanjali Gallery shows contemporary pieces that mingle with Scandinavian art from decades ago. It also hosts cultural events, live poetry readings and art workshops. You can also stop by Fundacao Oriente and Goa State Museum for a deeper dive into Goan creativity.
4. Dining at local cafes – The charming eateries of Fontainhas in Goa are the perfect setting for trying the region’s flavour-packed cuisine. Whether you want to savour fiery vindaloo, tangy sorpotel, or sweet bebinca, you can find them all in Fontainhas. The neighbourhood has many traditional Goan eateries and quaint bakeries that serve local dishes.
5. Shopping for souvenirs – Fontainhas is a great place to buy unique souvenirs reflecting Portuguese culture with Goan influence. Velha Goa Galeria is a popular shop for traditional hand-painted azulejos (tin-glazed ceramic tiles). Also, keep an eye out for traditional textiles and handicrafts that tell the story of this cultural melting pot.
Image Gallery of Fontainhas Goa
Fontainhas Goa Timings and Entry Fees
You can visit Fontainhas Street at any time during the day. The best way is through a two-hour-long Fontainhas Goa walking tour. Visit it during winter (from November to February), when the temperature is the best for exploration.
Fontainhas Goa entry fee is nil.
How to reach Fontainhas in Goa?
Fontainhas is in North Goa, in Panjim city. It’s 37 km from Madgaon railway station and 31 km from Margao bus terminal. Goa airport to Fontainhas distance is 27 km. And here’s how to reach Fontainhas Panjim –
By bus – Regular buses to Panjim are available from all parts of Goa. You can take a bus to Panjim bus stand and then take an auto or taxi for a short ride to Fontainhas.
By bike – Renting a bike is a common way for tourists to visit this place. Bikes and mopeds are easily available throughout Goa.
By taxi/cab – A taxi/cab is the best way to visit Goa Fontainhas. Hire a cab from the top car rentals in Goa and explore the neighbourhood at your convenience.
Goa is best visited by booking a Goa tour package with us. At Goa Tourism, we present our customers with a wide range of packages suiting their budget and other preferences. We offer personalised packages specially designed for them. Please fill the Contact Us form to get in touch with us.
