Porvorim

Porvorim or Parvari is a village located in the North Goa District, in the state of Goa, on the right-north bank of the Mandovi River. Though it is officially a village, it is a prime residential area and home to a large number of hotels, which are thronged by tourists visiting Panaji. It is the legislative capital of Goa. Its strategic location along NH-17, better known as the Mumbai-Goa Highway, provides easy accessibility.

This village has been under the rule of different dynasties, such as Bhojas, Satavahanas, Kshatrapa, Abhira, Chalukyas, Silharas and Kadambas. After the rule of the Adilshahis, the Portuguese landed on the shores of Goa. Much of Porvorim’s modern history is centered around the Portuguese Inquisition of India. It came under Indian jurisdiction in the year 1961, when Goa was annexed by India.

The Portuguese left a lasting impression on this village. There are many restaurants in this village which serve traditional Portuguese cuisine, along with Goan food. The main language spoken in this village is Konkani, while Hindi, English, Marathi, Kannada and Portuguese are also spoken here.

Located just 2 km away from Panaji, Porvorim is mainly used as a resting place by tourists. Due to the confluence of cultures and religions in the past, it is home to various churches and temples, like Lord Shiva Temple, Lord Hanuman Temple and Holy Family Church. It is well known for various reputed educational institutions, like Institute of Hotel Management, Goa and the Vidya Probodhini Education Society.

Tourists have to take flights to Dabolim Airport in Goa, which is located 18 km from Porvorim. It connects this village with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Bangalore. Porvorim is also linked with such cities by the Margao Railway Station, which is located 54 km away. Kadamba Bus Stand in Panaji is the most prominent interstate bus station near this village and connects it to Mumbai, Bangalore and Hampi, among other major cities.

Porvorim experiences tremendous variations in weather, with hot summers and cool winters. The summer season lasts from April to June and is characterised by high temperature and humidity. The best time to visit Porvorim is in the months of January, February and March.