Written by Intern Rency Gomes || Team Allycaral
March 5, 2026: Goa Tourism achieved a major milestone on the global tourism stage during its participation at ITB Berlin 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious travel trade events.
The Goa Tourism Pavilion was inaugurated by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in the presence of Ambassador of India to Germany Ajit Gupte and Bharti K. Sharma, Deputy Director General, Marketing Promotion & International Cooperation Division, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
Representing Goa Tourism were Deputy General Manager of Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) Deepak Narvekar and Information Assistant Rajendra Tari. Also present were co-exhibitors Deepak Lotlikar of Travel Smith and Mahesh Patil and Smita Patil of NV Eco Agro Tourism Pvt. Ltd., along with international delegates and dignitaries.
A key highlight of Goa’s participation was the recognition received at the PATWA International Travel Awards organised by the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association on the sidelines of ITB Berlin. Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte was honoured with the Tourism Minister of the Year – Innovation (Asia) award for his leadership and initiatives in transforming Goa’s tourism sector.
Goa was also recognised with the Destination of the Year – Rejuvenation award, acknowledging the state’s efforts in repositioning itself through sustainable, regenerative and experience-driven tourism. The recognition reflects Goa’s transition from a traditional beach destination to a diverse global tourism hub focusing on culture, spirituality, nature, adventure and wellness tourism.
Under the vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches”, the state has been promoting regenerative tourism built around the pillars of people, economy and environment. Key initiatives include promoting hinterland and spiritual tourism circuits, empowering local communities through homestays and women-led enterprises, developing culture-driven festivals, strengthening international tourism partnerships and encouraging responsible tourism practices.
Officials highlighted that the recognition at ITB Berlin reflects Goa’s evolving tourism strategy aimed at offering meaningful travel experiences while ensuring sustainable growth and community participation.
The Embassy of India in Berlin also hosted an “Incredible India Night”, bringing together leading tour operators, travel trade representatives and dignitaries from Germany. Goa Tourism representatives engaged with the travel trade community to promote Goa as a key destination within the broader India travel experience.
The recognition at ITB Berlin 2026 further reinforces Goa’s position as a dynamic global tourism destination committed to responsible, regenerative and internationally connected tourism growth.
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