In the lead-up to World Tourism Day 2025 on September 27, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has launched an ambitious month-long celebration in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Clubs across the state. This comprehensive series of activities reflects Goa’s progressive vision for sustainable, inclusive, and experiential tourism.
The month of September has been transformed into a canvas for immersive, localised experiences that showcase the state’s rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and community spirit. These efforts are part of Goa’s broader commitment to regenerative tourism, where travel experiences are designed not just to entertain but to positively impact both visitors and host communities.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, noted that the initiative aims to showcase Goa as a year-round destination with authentic experiences. He emphasized the role of youth in driving this change, highlighting the Yuva Tourism Club’s involvement in fostering a culture of responsible travel. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, reiterated the state’s holistic approach — blending heritage, nature, gastronomy, and inclusive events — to create a vibrant and future-ready tourism landscape.
The public is invited to take part in a variety of curated experiences such as a Bioluminescence Forest Walk, Cruise & Kayaking Trail, Folgar forest picnics, heritage walks at Monte Santo and Aguad, and traditional bread-making workshops. A visit to the Mulgao Folk Village will immerse participants in local customs, music and coconut farming techniques. Each activity is designed to engage both tourists and residents, creating opportunities for shared discovery and cultural exchange.
At the heart of the celebration is youth engagement. Through the Yuva Tourism Club, these experiences are being introduced to students in schools and colleges across Goa to raise awareness about sustainability and instill pride in local culture. The calendar includes a biodiversity walk at Carambolim Lake, electric cycle tours, and hands-on culinary activities that allow students to engage with Goa’s unique ecological and culinary identity.
Culinary enthusiasts can look forward to cooking competitions hosted at IIHM Goa and IHM Goa on various dates, inviting participants to explore the depth and diversity of Goan cuisine. These events aim to bridge traditional food knowledge with modern gastronomy, sparking creativity and cultural appreciation among the youth.
In a significant move toward inclusive tourism, the Department of Tourism will host two special boat cruises — one on September 26 for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and children from orphanages, and another on September 27 dedicated to special children from Rotary institutions. These events underscore Goa’s commitment to making tourism accessible to all, irrespective of age or ability.
On World Tourism Day, September 27, the state will also host its largest Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event will feature the presentation of the Vincent Ramos Scholarship and a key announcement — the launch of Goa’s dedicated MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) Promotion Bureau, a strategic move to position the state as a premier destination for business tourism.
The celebrations will conclude on September 28 with a special one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), showcasing heritage-themed films that focus on sustainability, community engagement, and conservation.
This year’s World Tourism Day theme in Goa is not just about attracting tourists — it’s about reimagining what tourism can mean for local communities, the environment, and future generations. The Department of Tourism invites everyone — residents, students, visitors, and stakeholders — to experience Goa through a fresh, immersive, and meaningful lens.
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