Tag: India 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.

National

Ayodhya Prepares for a Grand Deepotsav 2025 with 2.8 Million Lamps and a 32-Foot Pushpak Viman

Tanisha Cardozo

Ayodhya is preparing for one of the grandest Deepotsav celebrations ever witnessed, as the temple town gears up to illuminate 56 ghats along the Sarayu River with a stunning 2.8 million earthen lamps. Scheduled for Deepavali 2025, this year’s Deepotsav promises to be a spiritual and visual extravaganza, blending devotion, tradition, and community participation.

A striking feature of the festivities this year will be the installation of a 32-foot-tall Pushpak Viman at Ram Ki Paidi. This massive structure, inspired by the celestial vehicle of Lord Ram as described in the Ramayana, will showcase key scenes from the epic in a way that brings mythology to life. It offers a unique, immersive experience for pilgrims and visitors, adding a new cultural dimension to the festival.

To bring this event to life, more than 33,000 volunteers—including students, teachers, and residents—have come together to prepare the ghats and streets of Ayodhya. From arranging lamps to assisting with safety protocols, their collective spirit reflects the deep pride the city holds in celebrating Ram’s return to Ayodhya, now symbolically reenacted each year through Deepotsav.

The event is not only spiritual but meticulously organized. Volunteers are issued ID cards and festival T-shirts, and access to the ghats is tightly controlled to maintain safety. Food safety teams are also deployed to ensure hygienic conditions for visitors. Local administration is leaving no stone unturned to make this celebration safe, inclusive, and memorable.

In line with the broader cultural ethos, saints and local leaders are promoting Swadeshi products this year, urging people to light locally made earthen lamps and support artisans. As Saint Diwakaracharya Ji Maharaj noted, “Shri Ram has been seated in the grand Ram Temple after 500 years, and this Diwali promises to be truly remarkable.” He emphasized using indigenous products and highlighted the massive community effort that makes Deepotsav special—not only for Ayodhya, but for all of India.

Adding to the spiritual energy, Mahamandaleshwar Vishnu Das Ji Maharaj described the traditional rituals marking the start of Deepotsav. From the Swasti mantras to the lighting of the first diya for Lord Ram and the Saryu River, each act is steeped in symbolism and reverence. Diyas are also lit for Hanuman Ji, Mata Adi Shakti, Sita Ji, and the Ram Darbar, marking a complete spiritual circle that defines the essence of Deepavali.

As thousands prepare to witness the light of millions of diyas dancing on the waters of the Sarayu, the celebration in Ayodhya stands as a glowing tribute not only to Lord Ram but to the collective spirit of a city deeply connected to its roots. Deepotsav 2025 is not just a festival—it is a living narrative of culture, community, and unwavering devotion.

Travel

Goa Unveils Bold Regenerative Tourism Vision at National Tourism Ministers’ Conference 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa presented a bold, regenerative tourism roadmap at the National Tourism Ministers’ Conference held in Udaipur on 14th and 15th October 2025. Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, led the delegation, accompanied by Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, and Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Minister. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, brought together top tourism officials from across the country to align national and state-level strategies for transforming India into a leading global tourism destination.

Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized that Goa’s tourism strategy is grounded in regenerative principles—prioritizing economic growth, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. He shared that the 2025–26 season has begun on a strong note with increased international charter connectivity and the unveiling of major destination development projects designed to position Goa as a future-ready, experience-driven destination.

Two flagship projects were the highlight of Goa’s presentation: the Mega Performance Arena in Mandrem (Pernem) and the Lord Parshuram Statue & Museum, part of the Lifescape Project in Loliem (Canacona). The arena, a 20,000-seater world-class venue, will serve as a northern gateway for hosting international-scale events, cultural shows, and conventions. Meanwhile, the Parshuram project will become a landmark for cultural, spiritual, and immersive tourism in South Goa, reflecting Goa’s focus on “Goa Beyond Beaches.”

Shri Kedar Naik shared that Goa’s tourism transformation is built on inclusive growth, tech-enabled safety, and a visitor-first philosophy rooted in “Atithi Devo Bhava.” The state’s approach integrates infrastructure, heritage conservation, and cutting-edge digital solutions to enhance the tourist experience. Both the highlighted projects are expected to bring significant community benefits, including employment generation and cultural revival.

The conference also featured discussions on the Integrated Tourism Promotion Scheme, Performance Linked Incentives (PLI), and the development of 50 tourism destinations across India. Goa’s representation aligned closely with these frameworks, with its seven-pillar tourism diversification plan, encompassing eco-tourism, cultural heritage, MICE, adventure, leisure, wellness, and medical tourism.

In a significant update, Shri Khaunte also announced strengthened international air connectivity. Goa has witnessed the arrival of the first charter flight of the season, along with new weekly flights from Novosibirsk to MOPA. Aeroflot now operates nine weekly flights from Moscow, Yekaterinburg, and Novosibirsk, solidifying Goa’s growing presence in the Russian market. Starting 25th October, charter flights from Kazakhstan will further diversify inbound tourism sources.

With its strategic direction, Goa is poised to emerge as a national leader in sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism. Its participation in the National Tourism Ministers’ Conference reaffirmed its commitment to being a collaborative and visionary stakeholder in shaping the future of Indian tourism.

Travel

Goa Gears Up for a Memorable Year-End with ‘Feels Like Goa’ Campaign

allycaralgoa

Panaji, 10th October 2025: As the festive season draws near, Goa is set to welcome visitors with its new year-end campaign — “Feels Like Goa”, a heartfelt celebration of the state’s timeless charm, cultural richness, spiritual essence, and festive spirit.

Designed by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the campaign aims to evoke nostalgia and rekindle the emotional connection travelers share with Goa — reminding the world that Goa is not merely a destination, but a feeling.

Speaking about the campaign, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said:

“Goa has always held a special place in the hearts of travelers across the world. With ‘Feels Like Goa’, we are bringing back the essence of what makes Goa truly unique — its people, culture, and soul. This campaign is a tribute to timeless memories and an invitation to experience Goa with the same emotion and warmth as always.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:

“We are committed to regenerative tourism — creating meaningful experiences that benefit both travelers and local communities. This campaign revives travel sentiment and supports local businesses while preserving the essence of Goa.”

The Department’s vision for Goa’s tourism future is rooted in sustainability and inclusivity. Alongside the campaign, Goa has laid the foundation for Unity Mall, Porvorim Town Square, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum — key projects that diversify travel experiences beyond beaches and nightlife.

Through “Feels Like Goa”, the government aims to position the state as a multi-dimensional destination — one where every sunset, festival, and smile carries a story.

As 2025 draws to a close, Goa invites the world to come home to its heart — to feel its rhythm, warmth, and joy once again.

Travel

Goa Boosts Global Tourism with Arrival of International Charter Flights

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa is soaring to new heights on the international tourism map with the recent arrival of multiple international charter flights at the Manohar International Airport, Mopa. This development marks a significant milestone in expanding the state’s global connectivity and attracting tourists from key international markets.

On October 3, 2025, the second 158-seater charter flight from Novosibirsk, Russia, landed in Goa, signaling the beginning of a strong inbound travel season. The following days saw a continued influx, with flights from Yekaterinburg arriving on October 4 and 5, each bringing 158 passengers eager to explore the charm of Goa. Adding to the momentum, a larger flight from Moscow carrying 296 passengers arrived on October 5, further reinforcing Goa’s position as a gateway to India for global travellers.

International connectivity is set to expand even further with the launch of charter flights from Kazakhstan beginning October 25, 2025. These routes are expected to boost travel from Central Asia, offering tourists a direct link to the sun, sand, and culture of Goa.

Speaking about the milestone, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, shared: “The arrival of these international charter flights is a clear reflection of Goa’s growing appeal as a global destination. We are committed to providing world-class experiences, warm hospitality, and seamless connectivity to ensure that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories.”

Echoing the sentiment, Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, remarked: “The landing of these charter flights marks a key step in expanding Goa’s global accessibility. They also pave the way for greater engagement between travellers and Goa’s local culture and heritage.”

The Department of Tourism continues to work in close coordination with various stakeholders to ensure hassle-free operations and deliver the signature Goan welcome to all travellers. These efforts are not only boosting the economy but also elevating Goa’s reputation as a destination where leisure, culture, and adventure blend seamlessly.

With increasing international arrivals and strategic connectivity initiatives, Goa is set to further cement its place on the global travel map.