Tag: goa tourism

Travel

Goa Tourism Celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 with Grand Stakeholders’ Meet and Felicitations

Tanisha Cardozo

On September 27, 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in association with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, marked the culmination of month-long World Tourism Day celebrations with the largest-ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event brought together key leaders from the government, tourism industry, academia, influencers, and community-based tourism networks for a day of reflection, recognition, and renewed vision.

The Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, delivered a powerful address underlining the essential ecosystem that powers Goa’s tourism — from entrepreneurs and hoteliers to drivers, lifeguards, fishermen, and culinary professionals. Highlighting this year’s theme, he spoke about tourism not just as a business, but as a cultural expression and a shared identity that weaves together stories of the past and aspirations for the future. Emphasizing that Goa is more than just a beach destination, he reiterated the government’s commitment to making Goa a year-round, sustainable, and inclusive destination through initiatives like Unity Mall, Porvorim Town Square, and the Shivaji Maharaja Digital Museum under the Swadesh Darshan program.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, further emphasized that the recognitions awarded on this day were not merely about individual accomplishments but were a celebration of the collective energy that drives Goa’s tourism forward. From students and professionals to influencers and tourism clubs, each individual recognized reflects Goa’s future as a regenerative tourism hub.

The prestigious Shri Vincent Ramos Scholarship was awarded to two meritorious students from the Institute of Hotel Management — Mackenzee Vas and Caitlyn Rosanne Mascarenhas — in the presence of Smt. Deena Ramos, honoring the late visionary’s legacy. Felicitations were also extended to Shri Pele and Shri Parag Ragnekar for their invaluable contributions to Goa Tourism. Noted influencers Smt. Scarlet M. Rose and Shri Moses J. Saldanha were recognized for their unique role in amplifying Goa’s tourism narrative. Additional appreciation was given to Smt. Shishti Sudin Prabhu Desai, Smt. Ashrafi Shetdesai Gaikwad, and Shri Viraj Phadte for their outstanding support.

Youth Tourism Clubs played a pivotal role in the celebrations, and their achievements were recognized through awards to Shri Shail Sawkar of Sridora Caculo College, Smt. Lisa Dias of IHM-Goa, and Dr. Kiran Gaude of P.E.S. Ravi S. Naik College.

The World Tourism Day celebrations will officially conclude with a Grand Finale one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), featuring films that celebrate Goa’s rich cultural and natural heritage. These efforts, led by the Department of Tourism, serve to amplify Goa’s broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches,” where tourism becomes a tool for storytelling, regeneration, and inclusive growth.

As stakeholders converged across disciplines and interests, the spirit of collaboration and gratitude defined the day — reinforcing Goa’s role as a global tourism leader embracing innovation, sustainability, and culture.

Travel

Goa to Sign MoU with Gomantak Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya to Boost Wellness Tourism

Tanisha Cardozo

In a significant development aimed at positioning Goa as a hub for wellness and holistic health tourism, Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte announced that the State will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with B.S.P’s Gomantak Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya & Research Centre (GAM&RC), Shiroda. The MoU is set to serve as an umbrella for future collaborative initiatives in Ayurvedic research, education, and integrative health tourism.

The announcement was made during the 10th Ayurveda Day celebrations, held under the theme “Ayurveda for People and Planet.” The event underscored GAM&RC’s dedication to promoting sustainable healthcare solutions rooted in ancient wisdom, adapted for the modern world.

A landmark moment in the event was the inauguration of Goa’s first Cancer OPD in Ayurveda. This facility opens new avenues for integrative cancer care, where patients can access support that blends traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern medical frameworks. This approach not only addresses physical health but also emphasizes mental and emotional wellbeing, offering a holistic pathway to healing for patients and their families.

Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, the Chief Guest at the event, praised the institute’s legacy of producing over 1,000 graduates and its ongoing contribution to healthcare and community service. Highlighting the institute’s impact on women’s empowerment and Ayurvedic tourism, he emphasized the need for innovation and integration of technology in the wellness sector. “In a developed India, people are actively seeking holistic alternatives. With awareness rising and choices expanding, wellness has become not just a personal goal but a lifestyle,” he stated.

The ceremony was attended by a host of dignitaries including Shri Subhash Shirodkar, Minister for Water Resources and Corporation, who served as Guest of Honour. Other attendees included Dr. Yogesh Bendale of Ayurved Rasayani, Pune, Dr. Sneha Bhagwat, President of Goa Council of Ayurveda, and Adv. Narendra K. Sawaikar, President of Bharateeya Sanskriti Prabodhini, alongside senior faculty of GAM&RC.

The State’s collaboration with GAM&RC is seen as a forward-thinking step to leverage Goa’s natural, cultural, and educational assets in Ayurveda. By integrating traditional knowledge with tourism infrastructure, the government aims to attract both domestic and international visitors seeking authentic, regenerative experiences.

This partnership reflects Goa’s commitment to nurturing skilled Ayurvedic professionals, boosting local employment, and positioning the state as a national leader in wellness tourism—offering much more than just scenic beaches, but a complete ecosystem for healing, learning, and sustainable living.

Travel

Minister for Tourism, Rohan Khaunte Leads Goa’s Month-Long World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, India’s most iconic travel destination, reaffirmed its leadership in sustainable and people-first tourism by hosting a month-long celebration to mark World Tourism Day 2025. Spearheaded by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Dr. Rohan A. Khaunte, the campaign featured over 30 events that placed communities, culture, and sustainability at the center of travel.

The month-long initiative, delivered in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Clubs, brought together over 200 locals, students, and visitors in a dynamic showcase of Goa’s evolving tourism landscape.

From kayaking, cycling, heritage walks, and bioluminescent forest experiences to traditional bread-making and coconut farming in villages, every activity aimed to showcase a regenerative tourism model that protects natural assets, uplifts local communities, and enriches visitor experiences.

Inclusive tourism took center stage with special boat cruises for persons with disabilities, senior citizens from old-age homes, and children from orphanages — a powerful affirmation of Goa’s commitment to accessibility and dignity in tourism.

A key highlight was the participation of youth through the Yuva Tourism Clubs, with over 100 students from more than 30 colleges engaging in eco-walks, village picnics, cycling, and cooking experiences. These initiatives are shaping a new generation of Tourism Ambassadors deeply connected with their heritage, environment, and communities.

Celebrating Goa’s rich culinary tradition, two high-profile cooking competitions were hosted at IIHM Goa (17–18 September) and IHM Goa (22–23 September), giving young hospitality students a platform to showcase their creativity and knowledge of Goan cuisine.

The month also marked a significant step in Goa’s business tourism strategy with the upcoming launch of the MICE Promotion Bureau at the largest ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. This initiative is set to place Goa on the global map for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE).

The celebrations will conclude with a Film Festival at ESG on 28 September, spotlighting Goa’s heritage, biodiversity, and conservation efforts — a fitting finale to a campaign that united industry, government, students, and communities under a shared vision.

Reflecting on the success of the campaign, Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik noted: “These activities represent a holistic approach to tourism development. We’re building a future-ready ecosystem that benefits not just visitors, but also our people and environment.”

Goa’s commitment to a better tourism model is backed by real numbers: from January to June 2025, the state welcomed 5.45 million visitors, including 5.18 million domestic and 0.27 million international tourists — an 8.4% YoY increase. Cruise tourism also saw a rise, with over 34,121 passengers docking at Goan ports, thanks to improved air, sea, and charter connectivity.

As Goa heads into the Golden Season 2025–26, the Department of Tourism invites all — travellers, youth, stakeholders, and residents — to experience the state not just as a destination, but as a living, thriving story of people, nature, culture, and connection.

Travel

Goa Tourism Highlights Regenerative Tourism Through Rural & Heritage Experiences on World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, 26th September 2025 – As part of the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, curated a vibrant set of immersive experiences focused on community, culture, and sustainability.

A highlight of the celebrations was the rural tourism experience at Mulgao Village. Visitors were guided through a traditional coconut farm where they learned about the production of Virgin Coconut Oil and were introduced to local deities and folk legends that form part of the region’s intangible heritage. The serene natural surroundings and storytelling format gave participants an intimate glimpse into Goa’s agrarian traditions and regenerative tourism practices.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, expressed, “Through such rural experiences, we are showcasing Goa’s authentic culture and supporting local communities. Mulgao exemplifies how heritage and livelihood can go hand in hand when tourism is designed responsibly.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added, “The enthusiastic participation in the Mulgao Village Experience demonstrates the growing appeal of community-based tourism. We will continue to curate such experiences across Goa to highlight our state’s diversity and sustainability practices.”

In parallel, Goa Tourism also organized a special Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus Tour for children from Bal Bhavan. This initiative offered young students an exciting, educational journey through key tourist attractions across North Goa. The Hon’ble Minister also took the opportunity to interact with the children and handed out Goa Tourism caps as a souvenir of their experience.

The day’s activities were designed to highlight the broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches” and reflect the Department’s commitment to regenerative tourism that prioritizes cultural preservation, environmental care, and inclusive community participation.

Looking ahead, Goa Tourism has lined up a series of events as part of the extended World Tourism Day celebrations. These include scenic boat cruises, a Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa, and a special film festival at ESG that will showcase Goa’s heritage and conservation narratives.

The 2025 edition of World Tourism Day serves as a reaffirmation of Goa’s evolving role as a model for sustainable and community-led tourism in India.

Travel

Goa Prepares for 2025–26 Tourism Season with New Flights from Russia and Kazakhstan

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa is set to welcome the 2025–26 tourism season with a boost in international air connectivity. Starting October 2, three new weekly flights from Novosibirsk will land at Manohar International Airport in Mopa, further strengthening the state’s appeal to Russian tourists. These new services join the existing Aeroflot flights from Ekaterinburg and Moscow, bringing the total number of weekly Russian arrivals to nine.

The state’s tourism authorities have also confirmed that charter flights from Kazakhstan will begin operating from October 25, adding to Goa’s diverse international connectivity and reinforcing its position as a premier destination for global travelers.

Tourism officials anticipate a significant rise in inbound tourists due to the increased flight frequency, which is expected to benefit local hotels, transport services, and cultural attractions. With seamless connections from major Russian cities and now Kazakhstan, Goa is strategically enhancing its global reach.

The tourism season coincides with the peak festive period, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy Goa’s scenic beaches, vibrant culture, and rich heritage. Authorities emphasize that the enhanced air connectivity will also support economic growth and local employment in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

As Goa continues to expand its tourism infrastructure, these new flights mark a significant step in strengthening the state’s international tourism footprint and making travel more convenient for visitors from across the globe.