Tag: IndiaTourism

Travel

Goa Tourism Showcases ‘Sunshine and More’ at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 in Moscow

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism made an impressive and impactful presence at OTDYKH Leisure 2025, one of the world’s premier international travel and tourism exhibitions, held at the Timiryazev Exhibition Center in Moscow. With its vibrant and evolving theme, “Sunshine and More in Goa,” the state positioned itself as a year-round destination that offers far more than its celebrated coastline. This strategic showcase was aimed at enhancing Goa’s identity as a hub for sustainable tourism, cultural experiences, wellness retreats, and adventure activities.

The Goa delegation was led by Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, along with Shri Prasad Kavlekar, Senior Manager, Marketing at the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). Their presence and engagement drew significant attention from international travel professionals, media, trade representatives, and potential partners. On the opening day, Shri Kedar Naik met with Shri Nikhilesh Giri, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Moscow, deepening Goa’s collaborative ties and reinforcing its focus on global outreach and partnerships.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that Goa’s presence at OTDYKH is about more than promotion — it’s about transformation. “Goa is moving beyond being just a beach destination. Through ‘Sunshine and More in Goa,’ we are showcasing the state’s evolving identity as a destination rooted in culture, wellness, adventure, and sustainability. Our participation here is about building deeper collaborations and ensuring that Goa remains a preferred choice for quality international travellers,” he stated.

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added that the enthusiastic response on Day 1 validated Goa’s strong recall among global tourists. The Pavilion highlighted regenerative tourism, responsible travel, and authentic experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities. Through a mix of multimedia installations, cultural storytelling, and trade dialogues, Goa showcased its renewed focus on preserving ecosystems, promoting mindful tourism, and empowering rural and coastal communities.

Visitors were offered an immersive experience of Goa’s varied offerings — from serene beachside retreats and luxury hospitality to hinterland adventures, wellness therapies, heritage walks, and culinary trails. The state’s commitment to responsible tourism was at the heart of the pavilion’s message.

As the OTDYKH Leisure 2025 exhibition continues until September 12, the Goa Tourism Pavilion is expected to host further B2B meetings, cultural presentations, and networking events, reinforcing the message that Goa is not just a holiday destination, but a state of mind — one that offers sunshine, soul, and so much more.

Travel

Goa Tourism’s Global Journey Continues with ‘Experience Goa’ Roadshow in Tashkent

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to host an exclusive ‘Experience Goa’ Roadshow in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, at the City Palace Tashkent on September 15, 2025. This initiative is part of Goa Tourism’s ongoing global outreach to showcase the state as a year-round travel destination rich in culture, heritage, and sustainable experiences.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, emphasized the importance of the event: “The Roadshow is an opportunity to engage directly with Tashkent’s travel trade and position Goa as a year-round destination. Our focus is to create lasting connections while presenting Goa’s authentic, memorable, and immersive experiences.”

Echoing this vision, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, said: “Goa is evolving as a destination that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability. Through the Tashkent roadshow, we wish to showcase not just Goa’s scenic beauty, but also its heritage, wellness, festivals, and adventure. We look forward to building on this connectivity and welcoming more travelers to experience Goa in its truest essence.”

The roadshow is designed to present Goa as a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable destination, far beyond the stereotypical beach getaway. It will bring together tour operators, travel agents, airline partners, and dignitaries from across Uzbekistan and Central Asia. The showcase will feature Goa’s wide-ranging tourism offerings including heritage, culture, wellness retreats, immersive festivals, and eco-conscious adventure experiences.

One of the central themes of the event will be Goa Beyond Beaches, promoting lesser-known aspects of Goa’s tourism potential. The concept of Regenerative Tourism will also take center stage, with Goa Tourism focusing on environmentally responsible travel that supports local communities.

Attendees at the Tashkent roadshow will enjoy one-on-one interactions with Goa Tourism representatives and explore potential partnerships and collaborations. This outreach event signifies another milestone in Goa’s effort to build meaningful global connections and welcome the world to explore its unique blend of tradition, nature, and innovation in tourism.

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India Resumes Tourist Visas for Chinese Citizens After 5-Year Pause

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New Delhi | July 25, 2025 —In a major diplomatic and tourism development, the Government of India has officially resumed issuing tourist visas to citizens of China, effective July 25, 2025, ending a suspension that lasted nearly five years.

Background of the Ban

India halted tourist visas for Chinese nationals in 2020 following the COVID-19 pandemic and escalated border tensions along the Line of Actual Control. Diplomatic relations remained cautious, and travel between the two countries was largely restricted to essential and business categories.

A Diplomatic Reset

Today’s announcement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs signals a positive shift in India-China bilateral relations, particularly in people-to-people diplomacy. The decision follows months of behind-the-scenes negotiations and confidence-building measures.

“We believe in enhancing engagement between our peoples and cultures,” said a senior official at MEA. “Tourism is one of the best bridges.”

Impact on Tourism and Economy

India is a popular destination for Chinese travelers, especially for spiritual tourism (Bodh Gaya, Varanasi), heritage sites (Taj Mahal, Jaipur), and modern cities like Delhi and Mumbai.

Travel industry experts estimate that Chinese arrivals to India could reach pre-2020 levels within a year, especially with improving connectivity and relaxed visa protocols.

Next Steps for Chinese Travelers

Chinese citizens can now:

  • Apply for e-tourist visas via India’s official immigration portal.
  • Resume group tourism and pilgrimage travel.
  • Participate in academic and cultural exchanges via short-stay tourist visas.

Airlines are also expected to scale up flight connectivity between major Chinese cities and India.