Category: Travel

Travel

Goa Tourism Welcomes First UK Charter Arrivals for Winter 2025–26 Season

allycaralgoa

Panaji; November 6, 2025: Goa marked the grand commencement of its Winter 2025–26 charter season with the arrival of TUI Airways flights from the United Kingdom at Manohar International Airport (Mopa).

The first charter from Manchester touched down on November 5, bringing 282 passengers, followed by another from London Gatwick on November 6, carrying 288 passengers. The services were managed under the supervision of Freedom Holidays Pvt. Ltd., significantly enhancing Goa’s direct international connectivity.

With direct routes from Manchester Airport (MAN) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Manohar International Airport (GOX), Goa is now better positioned to welcome travellers seeking cultural, wellness, spiritual, and adventure-based tourism experiences.

Welcoming the flights, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said:

“The start of the charter season by TUI Airways reflects the continued interest Goa enjoys among travellers from the United Kingdom. As we expand our global reach, our endeavour is to offer experiences rooted in cultural ethos while supporting local communities and sustainable growth. We look forward to a promising season ahead.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:

“This development further strengthens international travel in Goa. We remain committed to working with partners to deliver a smooth, responsible, and enriching experience for visitors.”

This collaboration underscores Goa’s growing appeal as a long-haul travel destination and reinforces its reputation for cultural warmth, hospitality, and community-centred tourism.

As the charter season unfolds, Goa Tourism continues its efforts to enhance arrival experiences, build stronger partnerships, and promote Goa as a vibrant, year-round destination.

🌐 Source: Department of Tourism, Government of Goa
📍 Story by Allycaral – Connecting Global

Travel

Rohan Khaunte Emphasises Government–Academia–Industry Synergy at GIST 2025 to Drive Inclusive Innovation

Tanisha Cardozo

The third edition of the Goa Innovation and Startup Times (GIST 2025) was held on October 31, 2025, at Vivanta Goa, Panjim, celebrating the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Organised by BITS Pilani’s BITS BioCyTitH Foundation in partnership with the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications (DITE&C), the Goa Technology Association (GTA), the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), and the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), the event brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, academicians, and industry experts under one roof.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Tourism, and Printing & Stationery, emphasised the Goa Government’s commitment to building a robust innovation ecosystem. He underlined the State’s focus on mentorship, infrastructure, and financial support for startups, noting that with 703 startups already registered under DPIIT, Goa is fast emerging as a hub where creativity meets technology. Khaunte also highlighted the government’s inclusive approach to policymaking, where inputs from academia and industry are shaping forward-looking frameworks.

He cited the Goa AI Mission 2027 as an example of this vision, aimed at making Goa a leader in emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. The initiative, he explained, not only focuses on fostering a thriving business environment but also seeks to empower the State’s youth to become job creators.

The event featured multiple sessions exploring innovation for social impact and sustainable development. One of the key highlights was the panel discussion titled “Innovation by the Seaside – Technology Drivers,” which featured industry leaders such as K. Bhattacharyya of Putzmeister, Dr. P. Kamat of Suzega, S. Chittore of Quantum AI Global, and M. Tiwari of Ethernet Xpress. Moderated by Dr. A. Pethe from Texas Instruments, the discussion focused on how AI and quantum technologies are shaping the next wave of innovation.

Another significant panel, “Science, Policy and Sustainability,” examined real-world applications of science and technology in addressing key societal challenges. Moderated by Dr. Jennifer Lewis, the session featured insightful contributions from Prof. A. Parulekar of GIM, Dr. B. Manjunath of Syngenta, Mr. M. K. Patil, Former Chairman of the Goa State Pollution Control Board, and Ms. Tripti Somani, Founder of Womennovator.

Guest of Honour Ms. Revathi Kamath, entrepreneur and educationist, delivered an inspiring address urging entrepreneurs to contribute toward social equity by making education and technology accessible to underprivileged communities. She reminded the audience that innovation carries a moral responsibility to serve society.

GIST 2025 also celebrated women entrepreneurs through a dedicated Women Entrepreneurship Camp, complemented by a startup expo and translational research showcase. A closed-door investment pitching session provided startups with opportunities to secure funding and partnerships.

Through its engaging sessions and strong cross-sector collaboration, GIST 2025 reaffirmed Goa’s position as a growing hub of innovation and inclusive growth — driven by the shared efforts of government, academia, and industry.

Travel

IRCTC Golden Chariot Luxury Train Showcases Goa’s Culture to Premium Travellers

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism warmly welcomed the IRCTC Golden Chariot Luxury Train at Madgaon on November 5, 2025, offering high-end travellers a chance to experience the State’s rich culture, heritage, and hospitality. Among the guests were 26 international travellers who enjoyed a carefully curated itinerary featuring immersive heritage-led activities.

Visitors explored prominent churches in North Goa, gaining insights into the region’s spiritual and architectural significance, and experiencing a side of Goa beyond its famous beaches. Following the cultural tour, the Golden Chariot continued its journey towards Bengaluru.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that such visits help travellers appreciate Goa’s culture, heritage, and warm hospitality, while supporting initiatives that create meaningful experiences and benefit local communities. Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik noted the growing interest in cultural and heritage tourism, welcoming the opportunity to showcase Goa’s diverse offerings to discerning travellers.

This visit aligns with Goa Tourism’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable, immersive, and culturally rooted experiences, positioning the State as a premium, year-round travel destination. By bringing together luxury travel and authentic local experiences, the Golden Chariot visit reinforces Goa’s reputation as a destination that combines heritage, culture, and world-class hospitality.

Travel

Goa Tourism Showcases Its Cultural Brilliance at WTM London 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism made a vibrant start at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2025, drawing strong global interest from travel trade and industry partners. The Goa Pavilion welcomed an enthusiastic stream of visitors eager to discover the State’s rich cultural heritage, diverse tourism experiences, spiritual trails, hinterland adventures, and growing infrastructure that together shape its evolving tourism story.

This year, Goa Tourism’s showcase centred around its deep cultural roots, culinary excellence, and immersive travel offerings that reflect the State’s commitment to regenerative tourism. This approach places communities at the heart of tourism development, ensuring that growth is both inclusive and sustainable. By focusing on authentic experiences and storytelling, Goa continues to engage travellers who seek deeper, more meaningful connections with the places they visit.

The Goa Pavilion was inaugurated by Shri Kartik Pande IFS, Deputy High Commissioner of India to the UK, in the presence of Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa; Shri Rakesh Dahiya, IRS (Cus & IT), First Secretary (Trade & Tourism), High Commission of India, London; Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary (Tourism); Shri Sandip Jacques, IAS, Secretary (Revenue); Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC; Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Director (Tourism); and Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism.

Representatives from leading travel trade organisations including Shri Sheikh Ismail (Concord Exotic), Shri Deepak Bhatnagar (Minar Travels), Shri Anup (Let’s Goa), and Shri Martin Joseph Thypodath (Freedom Holidays) were also present, reinforcing Goa’s strong partnership with the global tourism network. The Goa delegation engaged in productive discussions with international trade and media representatives, paving the way for new collaborations and strategic alliances.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, shared, “Our participation reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening our tourism ecosystem through meaningful, community-led initiatives. We continue to promote experiences rooted in culture, heritage, wellness, and spirituality, offering visitors a deeper connection with the State. Our focus remains on enhancing accessibility, improving visitor experience, and showcasing Goa as a year-round destination that welcomes travellers with warmth.”

Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, added, “We remain aligned with Goa Tourism’s efforts to enhance visitor engagement and support initiatives that contribute to a more inclusive tourism framework. Participation at WTM helps us strengthen partnerships and explore opportunities that contribute to sustainable growth.”

Supporting this vision, Shri Kedar Naik, Director (Tourism), Government of Goa, said, “We are focused on positioning Goa as a responsible and experiential tourism destination. Our efforts are geared toward improving visitor experience, promoting innovative circuits, and highlighting local culture so travellers can explore Goa in new and engaging ways.”

By championing “Goa Beyond Beaches,” the State continues to redefine its image on the global tourism map. Goa’s participation at WTM London 2025 underscores its dedication to regenerative tourism, celebrating its cultural richness, strengthening community well-being, and offering travellers the promise of meaningful, transformative journeys.

Travel

GTDC Announces Special Tour for Tripurari Poornima Boat Festival 2025 at Sankhali

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), in collaboration with the Departments of Tourism, Art and Culture, and Information and Publicity, has announced a Special Tour for the Tripurari Poornima Boat Festival, which will take place on Wednesday, 5th November 2025, at Vithalapur, Sankhali.

Celebrated under the full moon, Tripurari Poornima is one of Goa’s most captivating festivals, blending spirituality, creativity, and tradition. The highlight of the event is the magnificent boat show on the River Valvanti, where intricately decorated miniature boats are released, symbolizing devotion and community celebration. The festival attracts locals and visitors who come together to experience the beauty of Goa’s cultural and spiritual diversity.

Speaking about the event, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that Tripurari Poornima embodies the spirit of Regenerative Tourism, where each visitor contributes to preserving Goa’s traditions while enjoying an authentic experience. He invited both locals and travellers to join the celebration and witness Goa’s living cultural legacy.

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, described the festival as a perfect representation of spirituality and community creativity, while GTDC Managing Director, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, reaffirmed GTDC’s commitment to curating meaningful tourism experiences that support local engagement and sustainability.

To facilitate easy access, GTDC has organized a special coach tour from Panaji and Mapusa residencies, departing at 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM, respectively, and returning from Sankhali at approximately 1:00 AM. Tickets are priced at ₹150 for adults and ₹50 for children (6–12 years). Guests staying at GTDC residencies in Panaji, Mapusa, Miramar, and Calangute who book the tour will also receive a 10% discount on room rates.

The initiative aims to encourage participation, promote local culture, and offer a comfortable, eco-friendly travel experience for visitors and residents alike.

GTDC invites everyone to experience the magic of Goa’s moonlit waters, vibrant traditions, and festive spirit at the Tripurari Poornima Boat Festival 2025.