Tag: MICE 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

Goa Showcases Regenerative Tourism at ITB Asia 2025, Positions Itself as ‘Gateway to All Possibilities’

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa made a strong international impression at ITB Asia 2025, positioning itself as the “Gateway to All Possibilities” through an immersive presentation of its regenerative tourism model and a wide array of authentic, sustainable, and premium tourism experiences. The Goa pavilion was inaugurated by Dr. Shilpak Ambule, High Commissioner of India to Singapore, in the presence of senior officials from the Department of Tourism and Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC).

Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized Goa’s leadership in being the first Indian state to adopt Regenerative Tourism — a framework that ensures tourism development strengthens local communities, protects ecosystems, and preserves cultural identity. Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, reinforced Goa’s commitment to positioning itself as a year-round, globally preferred destination across leisure, wellness, adventure, and MICE tourism.

Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, MD of GTDC, delivered a compelling presentation highlighting Goa’s strategic strengths: 10.4 million tourist arrivals in 2024, including nearly half a million international visitors; a 16.4% contribution to the state’s GDP from tourism; and support to over 35% of the local workforce. Goa’s connectivity — including two international airports, robust rail and highway networks, and advanced cruise terminals — was showcased as a key enabler for inbound growth.

The Goa delegation interacted with stakeholders from key tourism markets including Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, the USA, Spain, Mauritius, Dubai, and Taiwan, initiating collaborations to drive inbound tourism and boost Goa’s global profile. Exhibiting partners like Concord Exotic Voyages and Minar Travels Goa also showcased curated premium travel experiences and itineraries.

Goa’s eco-tourism offerings took center stage, with focused promotions on nature-based experiences such as Bondla Zoo, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Dudhsagar Waterfall, and eco-stays like Silvan Cottages. These initiatives are part of a broader push to highlight Goa’s lesser-explored hinterlands, diversify tourist interest beyond beaches, and encourage responsible tourism.

Visitors at the pavilion explored Goa’s diverse tourism layers: regulated water sports, bungee jumping, kayaking, caravan tourism, homestays, agro-tourism, vibrant festivals like Carnival and Shigmo, Ayurveda retreats, yoga hubs, culinary richness, flea markets, and arts festivals like IFFI and Serendipity.

Goa’s regenerative tourism vision is about crafting experiences that are immersive and inclusive while ensuring that tourism becomes a force for good. By balancing economic growth with environmental protection and cultural preservation, Goa is shaping a future-forward, resilient tourism model.

Its participation at ITB Asia 2025 reaffirms its commitment to global engagement, destination transformation, and creating a tourism ecosystem where every journey nurtures the destination’s soul — making Goa not just a place to visit, but a way to travel.

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.

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Experience Goa’s diversity and charm at OTM Mumbai 2025

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Goa Tourism is all set to mesmerize visitors at the highly anticipated OTM Mumbai 2025, Asia’s leading travel and tourism exhibition. The event, scheduled from January 30th to February 1st, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre.

Our participation at OTM Mumbai will showcase Goa’s rich cultural heritage, colourful traditions, adventure activities, and spiritual tourism, offering an engaging experience beyond its iconic beaches. Visitors can explore Goa Tourism’s stall at J-T 110, Jasmine Hall, 3rd Floor, which will vividly present Goa’s lesser-explored gems, including heritage sites, traditional festivals, eco-tourism offerings, and much more. Key highlights will include initiatives like Ekadasha Teertha, adventure tourism, and spiritual tourism, underscoring Goa’s dedication to sustainability and cultural preservation.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, remarked, “At OTM Mumbai, we are excited to showcase the true essence of Goa. Platforms like OTM allow us to present Goa’s diverse offerings, highlighting the state as a global destination for travellers seeking authentic and enriching experiences.”

Goa Tourisms’ participation reflects the ongoing commitment to promoting regenerative tourism. The pavilion will feature Goa’s cultural legacy, dynamic festivals, thrilling adventure options, and the charm of its serene hinterland. The exhibition also serves as a valuable networking platform to strengthen Goa’s position as a leading, innovative tourism destination. It will also promote Goa as a premier destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism and as an ideal locale for destination weddings, with its picturesque settings and bespoke services offering a memorable backdrop for both business and celebratory events.

Visit Goa Tourism’s stall at OTM Mumbai 2025 and rediscover the magic of “Goa Beyond Beaches.” Experience the sights, sounds, and stories that define Goa’s unique identity, from its bustling markets to traditional celebrations. Learn about the bespoke offerings that make Goa an exceptional destination for leisure, business, and milestone events. Whether you are a traveller seeking adventure, a couple planning a picturesque wedding, or a professional organizing a memorable corporate event, Goa has something special to offer for every occasion. Dive into a world where tradition meets modernity and create unforgettable memories in India’s favourite coastal paradise.