Tag: Sustainable Tourism

Travel

Goa Showcases Regenerative and Future-Ready Tourism at Qatar Travel & Tourism Expo 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa Tourism is set to take center stage at the Qatar Travel & Tourism Expo 2025, scheduled from 24th to 26th November, presenting the state as a leader in regenerative and future-ready tourism. The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, will use this international platform to showcase a refreshed tourism identity shaped by innovative experiences, enhanced services, and emerging global trends.

The Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized Goa’s commitment to blending responsible development with luxury travel experiences. He noted that participation in the Expo will enable Goa to highlight its diverse offerings—from wellness and nature-based experiences to cinematic exposure and dynamic nightlife—while engaging with global industry leaders to strengthen its presence in key international markets.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added that the Expo provides a crucial opportunity to promote Goa’s expanding tourism services and contemporary travel experiences. The delegation aims to highlight improvements in tourism infrastructure, foster international partnerships, and position Goa as a destination that offers both quality and authenticity.

Goa will spotlight a diversified tourism portfolio, including emerging trends such as nocto tourism, which curates safe and vibrant nightlife zones featuring music, culture, and local gastronomy. Film and screen tourism will also be showcased, emphasizing Goa’s appearances in films, OTT series, and international productions. Additionally, calmcations—focused on wellness, Ayurveda retreats, and tranquil nature getaways—will underscore Goa’s appeal to travelers seeking rest and rejuvenation.

The Expo will also highlight enhancements in visitor infrastructure, digital tourism services, heritage precinct development, water-based tourism, hinterland experiences, adventure activities, and community-led tourism initiatives. These efforts reflect Goa’s broader focus on regenerative tourism, ensuring that tourism growth benefits local communities while safeguarding cultural and natural heritage.

Goa Tourism’s participation at the Qatar Travel & Tourism Expo 2025 marks a significant step in global outreach, showcasing the state as a destination that combines sustainability, innovation, and cultural vibrancy. By engaging with travel partners, industry stakeholders, and international visitors, Goa reaffirms its commitment to delivering enriching, memorable, and future-ready travel experiences.

Travel

Tourism Department and GTDC Launch Development & Beautification of Harvalem Waterfall at Rudreshwar Temple

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in partnership with the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), has initiated the development and beautification of Harvalem Waterfall at the Rudreshwar Temple surroundings in Harvalem, Bicholim. This initiative is part of Goa’s ongoing efforts to strengthen eco-tourism and promote Amrit Dharohar as Challenged Based Destinations Development, with a focus on improving facilities for visitors while preserving the state’s natural and cultural heritage.

The inauguration programme was attended by Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Power & New and Renewable Energy Shripad Naik, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade, President BJP Goa State Damu Naik, Chairman Goa Tourism Development Corporation Kedar J. Naik, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, Managing Director of GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar, Vice Chairperson Sankhali Municipal Council Dayanand Boryekar, and President of Rudreshwar Temple, Harvalem, Yashwant Madkar.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant highlighted the cultural and ecological significance of Harvalem, stating that strengthening such destinations benefits both tourism and the local communities dependent on them. Minister for Tourism Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized that the project reflects Goa’s broader vision of diversifying tourism offerings, focusing on nature-based experiences, improved accessibility, and responsible development that supports the local ecosystem and economy. Chairman of GTDC Kedar J. Naik added that the improvements will help position Harvalem more prominently within Goa’s eco-tourism circuits, while Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade stressed that sustainable planning, safety, and thoughtful design remain central to the project.

As part of the programme, the Chief Minister inaugurated an audiovisual film presenting the project’s plans and vision. The function included presentations by GTDC and Rudreshwar Temple Committee, with mementos presented to all dignitaries and a vote of thanks acknowledging collective efforts in shaping the project.

This development is part of Goa’s larger strategy to strengthen tourism infrastructure across natural, cultural, and heritage locations. By investing in projects like Harvalem, the state continues to create a more diverse, experience-driven tourism landscape while preserving the integrity of its natural environment.

Events in Goa

Heritage First Festival Returns with 41 Walks and Workshops to Celebrate Goa’s Living Heritage

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Goa’s living heritage once again takes centre stage as the Heritage First Festival returns for its second edition, promising to spotlight the cultural, ecological and historical wealth of the state. Organised by the not-for-profit Heritage First Goa (HFG) — founded by heritage advocates Heta Pandit, Jack Ajit Sukhija, and Snigdha Manchanda — the festival will be held from November 14 to December 7, 2025 and will feature 41 walks and workshops spread across three weeks.

From the tranquil villages and khazan lands to the city streets and coastal landscapes, this edition of the festival explores Goa’s multifaceted heritage through immersive experiences. Participants will have the chance to embark on a village walk in Saligao with Subodh Kerkar, dive into the biodiversity of Chorao’s mangroves and otter habitats with Kilian Hughes and Katrina Fernandez, explore prehistoric caves in Chicalim with Cyril Fernandes, or discover Panaji’s nocturnal charm through a night walk guided by Pritha Sardessai.

Beyond the walks, the festival’s workshops will offer deeper engagement with Goa’s art and craft traditions. Attendees can learn the intricacies of Kaavi art with Darpana Athale, explore the textures and heritage of the Kunbi saree weave with Mahalaxmi Bhobe, join a poetry walk with Meera Ganpathi across the scenic fields of Parra, build a sand dune on Miramar’s beach alongside Dr Antonio Mascarenhas and Gabriella D’Cruz, or enjoy community kitchen experiences in Chorao led by Amreen Sheikh.

“Goa has so much to offer in terms of heritage and culture, which people are still not aware of beyond their own local boundaries. In this second edition of the festival, we aim to throw a spotlight on these gems and educate the general public as there is yet so much of our heritage which is yet unknown to us, especially the younger generation. We hope that through the walks and workshops people are able to understand, connect and in turn preserve the heritage of the state,” says Heta Pandit of Heritage First Goa.

The festival also opens the door for individuals and businesses to play a role in heritage preservation by adopting a walk through modest contributions, helping sustain the operational costs and supporting the cause in a tangible way.

Registration for each event is mandatory, with limited slots available to ensure meaningful engagement. Tickets are priced at ₹750 per event, and attendees are encouraged to pre-book their slots to be part of this journey that celebrates Goa’s living legacy.

Travel

Goa Tourism Welcomes First UK Charter Arrivals for Winter 2025–26 Season

allycaralgoa

Panaji; November 6, 2025: Goa marked the grand commencement of its Winter 2025–26 charter season with the arrival of TUI Airways flights from the United Kingdom at Manohar International Airport (Mopa).

The first charter from Manchester touched down on November 5, bringing 282 passengers, followed by another from London Gatwick on November 6, carrying 288 passengers. The services were managed under the supervision of Freedom Holidays Pvt. Ltd., significantly enhancing Goa’s direct international connectivity.

With direct routes from Manchester Airport (MAN) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Manohar International Airport (GOX), Goa is now better positioned to welcome travellers seeking cultural, wellness, spiritual, and adventure-based tourism experiences.

Welcoming the flights, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said:

“The start of the charter season by TUI Airways reflects the continued interest Goa enjoys among travellers from the United Kingdom. As we expand our global reach, our endeavour is to offer experiences rooted in cultural ethos while supporting local communities and sustainable growth. We look forward to a promising season ahead.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:

“This development further strengthens international travel in Goa. We remain committed to working with partners to deliver a smooth, responsible, and enriching experience for visitors.”

This collaboration underscores Goa’s growing appeal as a long-haul travel destination and reinforces its reputation for cultural warmth, hospitality, and community-centred tourism.

As the charter season unfolds, Goa Tourism continues its efforts to enhance arrival experiences, build stronger partnerships, and promote Goa as a vibrant, year-round destination.

🌐 Source: Department of Tourism, Government of Goa
📍 Story by Allycaral – Connecting Global

Travel

IRCTC Golden Chariot Luxury Train Showcases Goa’s Culture to Premium Travellers

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism warmly welcomed the IRCTC Golden Chariot Luxury Train at Madgaon on November 5, 2025, offering high-end travellers a chance to experience the State’s rich culture, heritage, and hospitality. Among the guests were 26 international travellers who enjoyed a carefully curated itinerary featuring immersive heritage-led activities.

Visitors explored prominent churches in North Goa, gaining insights into the region’s spiritual and architectural significance, and experiencing a side of Goa beyond its famous beaches. Following the cultural tour, the Golden Chariot continued its journey towards Bengaluru.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that such visits help travellers appreciate Goa’s culture, heritage, and warm hospitality, while supporting initiatives that create meaningful experiences and benefit local communities. Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik noted the growing interest in cultural and heritage tourism, welcoming the opportunity to showcase Goa’s diverse offerings to discerning travellers.

This visit aligns with Goa Tourism’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable, immersive, and culturally rooted experiences, positioning the State as a premium, year-round travel destination. By bringing together luxury travel and authentic local experiences, the Golden Chariot visit reinforces Goa’s reputation as a destination that combines heritage, culture, and world-class hospitality.