Tag: SustainableTravel

Business

Goa and Madhya Pradesh Explore Collaborative Opportunities to Boost Heritage and Cultural Tourism

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, recently engaged in a significant meeting with senior officials from the Government of Madhya Pradesh to explore collaborative opportunities in tourism, focusing on heritage, wildlife, and cultural experiences. The discussions centered on creating synergy between the two States to promote two-way tourism, encouraging visitors from Madhya Pradesh to explore Goa’s diverse tourism offerings and facilitating travel from Goa to Madhya Pradesh to experience its rich heritage and wildlife destinations.

The meeting saw participation from key tourism officials including Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager (Hotels & Marketing), GTDC, and Shri Jack Sukhija, President of TTAG, alongside Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, IAS, Principal Secretary, Culture, Tourism & Public Relations, Government of Madhya Pradesh.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that it strengthens efforts to promote tourism beyond beaches, offering travellers deeper access to heritage and cultural narratives. He noted that Goa and Madhya Pradesh share complementary tourism profiles that can benefit both regions through collaborative circuits, knowledge sharing, and enhanced visitor experiences, aiming for tourism that is meaningful, responsible, and driven by community participation.

Shri Kedar Naik highlighted that the exchange of ideas with Madhya Pradesh opened avenues for joint product development in heritage and cultural tourism. The States are exploring curated experiences that encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of both regions. Madhya Pradesh has extended an invitation to the Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, along with tourism trade stakeholders, to visit the State in the coming quarter for further discussions and planning.

In return, Goa is preparing to host tourism trade representatives from Madhya Pradesh to strengthen heritage and cultural tourism initiatives. Both Governments are focused on improving visitor experiences, expanding tourism circuits, and fostering cultural appreciation. The collaboration is expected to generate mutually beneficial tourism growth, promote sustainable practices, and support local communities while enhancing domestic travel networks.

This partnership reflects a shared vision to celebrate cultural roots, develop meaningful tourism products, and create travel experiences that connect people with the heritage, wildlife, and culture of Goa and Madhya Pradesh alike.

Travel

Goa Tourism Showcases Its Cultural Brilliance at WTM London 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism made a vibrant start at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2025, drawing strong global interest from travel trade and industry partners. The Goa Pavilion welcomed an enthusiastic stream of visitors eager to discover the State’s rich cultural heritage, diverse tourism experiences, spiritual trails, hinterland adventures, and growing infrastructure that together shape its evolving tourism story.

This year, Goa Tourism’s showcase centred around its deep cultural roots, culinary excellence, and immersive travel offerings that reflect the State’s commitment to regenerative tourism. This approach places communities at the heart of tourism development, ensuring that growth is both inclusive and sustainable. By focusing on authentic experiences and storytelling, Goa continues to engage travellers who seek deeper, more meaningful connections with the places they visit.

The Goa Pavilion was inaugurated by Shri Kartik Pande IFS, Deputy High Commissioner of India to the UK, in the presence of Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa; Shri Rakesh Dahiya, IRS (Cus & IT), First Secretary (Trade & Tourism), High Commission of India, London; Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary (Tourism); Shri Sandip Jacques, IAS, Secretary (Revenue); Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC; Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Director (Tourism); and Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism.

Representatives from leading travel trade organisations including Shri Sheikh Ismail (Concord Exotic), Shri Deepak Bhatnagar (Minar Travels), Shri Anup (Let’s Goa), and Shri Martin Joseph Thypodath (Freedom Holidays) were also present, reinforcing Goa’s strong partnership with the global tourism network. The Goa delegation engaged in productive discussions with international trade and media representatives, paving the way for new collaborations and strategic alliances.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, shared, “Our participation reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening our tourism ecosystem through meaningful, community-led initiatives. We continue to promote experiences rooted in culture, heritage, wellness, and spirituality, offering visitors a deeper connection with the State. Our focus remains on enhancing accessibility, improving visitor experience, and showcasing Goa as a year-round destination that welcomes travellers with warmth.”

Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, added, “We remain aligned with Goa Tourism’s efforts to enhance visitor engagement and support initiatives that contribute to a more inclusive tourism framework. Participation at WTM helps us strengthen partnerships and explore opportunities that contribute to sustainable growth.”

Supporting this vision, Shri Kedar Naik, Director (Tourism), Government of Goa, said, “We are focused on positioning Goa as a responsible and experiential tourism destination. Our efforts are geared toward improving visitor experience, promoting innovative circuits, and highlighting local culture so travellers can explore Goa in new and engaging ways.”

By championing “Goa Beyond Beaches,” the State continues to redefine its image on the global tourism map. Goa’s participation at WTM London 2025 underscores its dedication to regenerative tourism, celebrating its cultural richness, strengthening community well-being, and offering travellers the promise of meaningful, transformative journeys.

Travel

Uttar Pradesh to Unveil Its First Glass Skywalk Bridge at Tulsi Waterfall in Chitrakoot

Tanisha Cardozo

Uttar Pradesh is set to open its first-ever glass skywalk bridge at the scenic Tulsi Waterfall in Chitrakoot, a Rs 3.70-crore marvel that fuses modern engineering with timeless spirituality. Shaped like Lord Ram’s bow and arrow, the structure symbolizes strength, precision, and divinity while offering visitors a thrilling and immersive experience above one of Bundelkhand’s most serene landscapes.

The skywalk, made from a fusion of glass and steel, stands as both a tribute to the region’s mythological legacy and a bold step in eco-tourism development. Officials from the Chitrakoot district administration have confirmed that the bridge was inspired by Bihar’s Rajgir Glass Bridge but features a unique design tailored to the cultural ethos of Chitrakoot — the land where Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman are believed to have spent years during their exile.

“This bridge is a blend of spirituality and modern architecture,” said a senior official from the Forest and Tourism Department. “Our goal is to develop Chitrakoot as a model for faith-based eco-tourism, allowing visitors to experience both natural beauty and cultural heritage.”

The transparent glass panels of the bridge offer a 360-degree view of the three-tiered Tulsi Waterfall — once known as Shabari Waterfall — which was renamed to honour Goswami Tulsidas, the saint-poet who composed the Ramcharitmanas and was born nearby in Rajapur. The area surrounding the waterfall has been transformed into Kodand Van, an eco-park named after Lord Ram’s bow, featuring walking trails, viewing decks, and meditation zones.

Chitrakoot Divisional Forest Officer S.K. Chaudhary described the experience as both thrilling and tranquil. “Standing on the glass deck, visitors will feel as if they are floating above the waterfall. It’s an unmatched experience of peace and exhilaration,” he said.

Constructed by Ghazipur-based Pawan Sut Construction Company, the bridge extends 25 metres into the gorge and spans 35 metres between its two pillars. It has been engineered to withstand a load of up to 500 kg per square metre, ensuring maximum safety even during peak tourist hours. Reinforced steel frames and multi-layered laminated glass panels have been used to ensure durability against environmental and temperature challenges.

“Safety has been our top priority,” said project engineer Pramod Mishra. “Each component has been tested to international standards. The structure is designed to be both aesthetically striking and sustainable in an eco-sensitive area.”

The glass bridge is part of a wider effort by the Uttar Pradesh government to promote sustainable tourism in Bundelkhand. Additional amenities, including a herbal garden, open-air park, and food court, are being developed near the waterfall to enhance the visitor experience while maintaining ecological balance. The project also integrates local communities by generating employment opportunities for guides, artisans, and small business owners.

Authorities are implementing eco-friendly measures such as solar-powered lighting, controlled vehicle access, and comprehensive waste management to ensure the site remains environmentally responsible. “Our approach is to balance development with conservation,” DFO Chaudhary emphasized.

The bridge is expected to be inaugurated soon after the Lok Sabha elections and is already being hailed as a future landmark for Uttar Pradesh. Once open, it is expected to attract both domestic and international tourists, boosting faith-based and adventure tourism in the region.

Tourism officials are planning a series of cultural festivals, eco-camps, and local food fairs to establish Chitrakoot as a year-round destination. “This project will put Chitrakoot firmly on the national tourism map,” said an official from the tourism department.

For centuries, Chitrakoot has been celebrated as the confluence of devotion and nature — a sacred land immortalized in scriptures and songs. With the unveiling of the glass skywalk, the district now embraces a new identity: a place where heritage meets innovation. The shimmering bridge above the Tulsi Waterfall stands as a symbol of Uttar Pradesh’s evolving vision — a state that honours its sacred past while stepping confidently into the future.

Human Interest

Goa’s First Water Metro Project to Connect Vasco with Dona Paula

Closed Account

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

Goa is set to embark on a landmark transport initiative with the launch of its first water metro project, designed to connect Vasco in Mormugao with Dona Paula in Tiswadi.

The announcement was made by Subhash Phal Dessai, Minister for Drinking Water and Social Welfare, at a programme in Vasco. The minister highlighted that the project is being evaluated in collaboration with the Centre, with feasibility studies and operational plans currently underway.

“The water metro project will help ease road traffic and also strengthen tourism in Goa,” Phal Dessai stated.

Once implemented, the water metro is expected to:

  • Provide a faster and sustainable commuting option for residents and tourists.
  • Significantly reduce road congestion, especially on busy stretches connecting Vasco and Dona Paula.
  • Offer a new tourist experience, enhancing Goa’s reputation as a world-class travel destination.

Authorities are confident that the project will not only improve connectivity but also serve as a green alternative to traditional transport, aligning with global trends in sustainable mobility.

With the evaluation process in progress, the people of Goa can look forward to an innovative mode of transport that will redefine travel within the state.

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.