Tag: eco tourism

Travel

Goa’s Tourism Shines with 6.23% Growth; Domestic and International Arrivals Surge in 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa’s tourism industry has recorded a remarkable surge this year, reaffirming its position as one of India’s leading travel destinations. From January to September 2025, the state achieved an overall 6.23% increase in tourist arrivals compared to the same period last year. Domestic arrivals rose from 69,24,938 in 2024 to 72,96,068 in 2025, marking a 5.36% increase, while international arrivals grew significantly by 29.33%, climbing from 2,59,820 to 3,36,031 visitors. Tourism continues to play a major role in Goa’s economy, contributing around 16.43% to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and generating nearly 40–45% of direct and indirect employment.

Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte noted that Goa’s consistent performance, even during the monsoon months, demonstrates the success of year-round tourism initiatives. He praised the growing international reach of Goa’s tourism, with charter flights arriving from destinations such as Ekaterinburg, Kazakhstan, Novosibirsk, and Moscow, totaling 34 flights from Russia and Central Asia in October 2025 alone. TUI Airways is also set to begin direct flights from Manchester and Gatwick, expected to bring an additional 30,000–40,000 travellers to Goa.

The Minister emphasized the importance of responsible tourism, stating that sustainability and quality remain central to Goa’s vision. Shacks began operations earlier this season, and watersports operators received timely permissions under improved regulations. He also confirmed that six shack operators lost their licenses this year for sub-letting, underscoring the Department’s commitment to transparency.

To further strengthen Goa’s tourism ecosystem, new policies are on the horizon. The upcoming Aerosports Policy and Wellness Tourism Policy aim to promote adventure, MICE, wedding, and wellness tourism under the “Goa Beyond Beaches” initiative. These efforts will support women-led enterprises and community-driven tourism. Simultaneously, the Department is cracking down on illegal touting and ensuring hospitality compliance through hotel verification drives and fully online registration systems for ease of doing business.

Empowering Goans remains at the heart of these initiatives. The Certified Tourism Facilitator Programme has already certified 72 guides, while a new ID-based registration system for beach photographers aims to prevent irregularities. A dedicated scheme for local photographers, “Niz Goenkars,” will soon be launched to encourage homegrown entrepreneurship.

Highlighting support from the Central Government, Shri Khaunte announced that ₹472 crore has been sanctioned for key tourism projects including Swadesh Darshan, Town Square, Unity Mall, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum. Looking ahead, Goa plans to develop a vibrant “concert economy” to enhance entertainment infrastructure and promote cultural tourism.

Concluding his address, the Minister said Goa’s tourism story is evolving from “enforcement to empowerment,” driven by collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. With sustained efforts and a shared commitment to responsible travel, Goa aims to solidify its reputation as a premier global destination offering experiences beyond its beaches.

Travel

Spiti Valley Declared India’s First Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO

allycaralgoa

In a landmark announcement at the 37th UNESCO MAB-ICC meeting in Hangzhou, China (Sept 2025), Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh was officially declared India’s first-ever Cold Desert Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme.

Located at breathtaking altitudes between 3,300 and 6,600 meters, Spiti Valley covers nearly 7,770 square kilometers and is known for its stark beauty, ancient monasteries, and rare biodiversity. The valley’s fragile alpine ecosystem — featuring glaciers, river valleys, and snow-covered peaks — supports endangered species like the Snow Leopard, Blue Sheep, and Himalayan Ibex.

Beyond its ecological significance, Spiti is a living museum of Himalayan culture. The region’s centuries-old Buddhist monasteries, including Key, Tabo, and Dhankar, stand as beacons of peace and spirituality. The communities here have sustained themselves through traditional mountain farming, deep respect for nature, and a shared sense of responsibility toward the environment.

This UNESCO recognition will strengthen efforts to:

  • 🌿 Conserve Spiti’s unique alpine habitats and biodiversity
  • 💧 Promote sustainable, low-impact livelihoods for local communities
  • 🦋 Encourage responsible tourism that protects the valley’s fragile balance

Experts believe the designation will also bring global attention to Spiti’s climate resilience and cultural richness, setting an example for other high-altitude conservation zones across the world.

With this achievement, India now has 13 UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, reaffirming the nation’s growing leadership in sustainability, ecology, and heritage preservation.

For travelers, Spiti Valley is now officially recognized as a global conservation treasure — a destination to be admired, respected, and preserved for generations to come.

Travel

Goa Tourism Hosts Heritage Walk, Forest Picnic & Carambolim Lake Experience for World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

As part of the celebrations for World Tourism Day 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Club, hosted a series of enriching tourism experiences across the state. These included a captivating Heritage Walk at the Aguad Port & Jail Complex, a tranquil ‘Picnic by the Forest Stream’ in Bicholim, and a serene Nature Experience at Carambolim Lake. Each event was designed to deepen appreciation for Goa’s historical, cultural, and ecological richness.

These initiatives align with Goa Tourism’s vision of promoting regenerative and experiential tourism. By bringing together students, tourism stakeholders, and visitors, the activities encouraged a stronger connection to Goa’s diverse landscapes and stories. The Heritage Walk at Aguad introduced participants to fascinating chapters of Goa’s colonial history, while the forest picnic in Bicholim offered a moment of peace and community in the heart of nature. At Carambolim Lake, visitors learned about the region’s wetland biodiversity, underlining the importance of conservation efforts.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the importance of such inclusive initiatives in shaping Goa’s tourism identity, noting that blending heritage, nature, and community engagement is key to making tourism meaningful. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, highlighted how these events foster awareness about sustainability and responsible travel among young participants and tourism partners. He noted the enthusiastic participation from educational institutions and stakeholders as a positive sign for the future of tourism in the state.

The World Tourism Day celebrations will continue in the coming days with a grand Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa and a special Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), showcasing stories of heritage and conservation. These initiatives not only celebrate tourism but also reaffirm Goa’s commitment to fostering a tourism model that is inclusive, sustainable, and deeply rooted in its unique identity.

Travel

GTDC to Host Monsoon Trekking Expedition to Tonir Cascade on September 28

Tanisha Cardozo

The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) is offering adventure and nature lovers a rare opportunity to explore one of Goa’s lesser-known natural gems — the Tonir Cascade in Sattari. Scheduled for September 28, 2025, this monsoon trekking expedition is designed to showcase the lush beauty of the Mhadei region during its most vibrant season.

The trek spans approximately 8 kilometers, and is a blend of light adventure and accessible terrain, suitable for all fitness levels. Participants will make their way through scenic forest paths, wade across rain-fed rivers, and navigate natural obstacles such as fallen tree trunks — all adding to the sense of immersive exploration. The trek is expected to take around 1.5 hours of brisk walking one way.

The final reward is a view of the stunning Tonir Cascade, tucked away deep within the forest, and especially majestic during the monsoon season. The journey is as much about the path as the destination, with opportunities to engage with Goa’s rich biodiversity and undisturbed natural environment.

Participants will depart from Paryatan Bhavan, Patto, at 8:00 AM, with transportation included in the ₹1400 registration fee. The trek is open to individuals of all ages who are passionate about nature, eco-tourism, and offbeat travel.

GTDC has issued a list of recommended essentials for the trek: an extra set of clothes, waterproof rainwear, sturdy trekking shoes, snacks, and binoculars for wildlife spotting. For safety and to preserve the ecological integrity of the area, smoking and alcohol consumption will not be allowed during the expedition.

This monsoon trek offers a structured and safe experience for anyone eager to discover the unspoiled monsoon landscapes of Goa while supporting sustainable tourism.

Travel

Goa Tourism Unveils Immersive and Inclusive Experiences Ahead of World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

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.