Tag: Wellness Tourism

Travel

Goa to Sign MoU with Gomantak Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya to Boost Wellness Tourism

Tanisha Cardozo

In a significant development aimed at positioning Goa as a hub for wellness and holistic health tourism, Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte announced that the State will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with B.S.P’s Gomantak Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya & Research Centre (GAM&RC), Shiroda. The MoU is set to serve as an umbrella for future collaborative initiatives in Ayurvedic research, education, and integrative health tourism.

The announcement was made during the 10th Ayurveda Day celebrations, held under the theme “Ayurveda for People and Planet.” The event underscored GAM&RC’s dedication to promoting sustainable healthcare solutions rooted in ancient wisdom, adapted for the modern world.

A landmark moment in the event was the inauguration of Goa’s first Cancer OPD in Ayurveda. This facility opens new avenues for integrative cancer care, where patients can access support that blends traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern medical frameworks. This approach not only addresses physical health but also emphasizes mental and emotional wellbeing, offering a holistic pathway to healing for patients and their families.

Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, the Chief Guest at the event, praised the institute’s legacy of producing over 1,000 graduates and its ongoing contribution to healthcare and community service. Highlighting the institute’s impact on women’s empowerment and Ayurvedic tourism, he emphasized the need for innovation and integration of technology in the wellness sector. “In a developed India, people are actively seeking holistic alternatives. With awareness rising and choices expanding, wellness has become not just a personal goal but a lifestyle,” he stated.

The ceremony was attended by a host of dignitaries including Shri Subhash Shirodkar, Minister for Water Resources and Corporation, who served as Guest of Honour. Other attendees included Dr. Yogesh Bendale of Ayurved Rasayani, Pune, Dr. Sneha Bhagwat, President of Goa Council of Ayurveda, and Adv. Narendra K. Sawaikar, President of Bharateeya Sanskriti Prabodhini, alongside senior faculty of GAM&RC.

The State’s collaboration with GAM&RC is seen as a forward-thinking step to leverage Goa’s natural, cultural, and educational assets in Ayurveda. By integrating traditional knowledge with tourism infrastructure, the government aims to attract both domestic and international visitors seeking authentic, regenerative experiences.

This partnership reflects Goa’s commitment to nurturing skilled Ayurvedic professionals, boosting local employment, and positioning the state as a national leader in wellness tourism—offering much more than just scenic beaches, but a complete ecosystem for healing, learning, and sustainable living.

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Goa Tourism to Showcase “Sunshine and More in Goa” at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 in Moscow

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism is taking the global stage once again, as it prepares to participate in OTDYKH Leisure 2025—one of the largest international travel and tourism exhibitions. The event will take place from 10th to 12th September at the Timiryazev Exhibition Center in Moscow, Russia. This year, Goa Tourism will present the theme “Sunshine and More in Goa” at Pavilion B13, inviting global audiences to experience the richness and diversity of India’s most beloved coastal destination.

Speaking ahead of the event, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized Goa’s positioning as a holistic and globally attractive destination. “Goa has always been one of the most sought-after destinations for international travelers, and our presence at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 is another step towards strengthening Goa’s global footprint. Through the theme ‘Sunshine and More in Goa,’ we want to showcase the multifaceted experiences our state offers, from beaches to hinterlands, from wellness retreats to cultural richness. Our focus is on attracting quality tourism, building meaningful collaborations, and positioning Goa as a responsible, world-class destination.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, also noted the importance of the platform: “OTDYKH Leisure is a significant platform to connect with international travel trade stakeholders and potential visitors. At the Goa Pavilion, we will be highlighting not just the leisure aspect of Goa but also our forward-looking initiatives in areas like wellness, heritage, adventure, and community tourism. This participation provides an opportunity to emphasize Goa’s position as a destination that celebrates culture, sustainability, and authentic travel experiences.”

Goa’s presentation at the exhibition will go far beyond sun and sand. Visitors to the pavilion will get to explore the state’s pristine beaches, vibrant hinterlands, luxury resorts, spiritual and wellness getaways, immersive heritage trails, adrenaline-filled adventure experiences, and community-led tourism initiatives. It’s all part of Goa’s evolving narrative as a year-round destination for leisure, business, and mindful travel.

With the global spotlight increasingly shifting toward regenerative tourism and eco-conscious travel, Goa Tourism’s showcase will also highlight the state’s ongoing work in preserving natural ecosystems, empowering local communities, and encouraging responsible travel practices. By participating in OTDYKH Leisure 2025, Goa aims not only to promote its attractions but also to strengthen international partnerships, encourage investments, and open doors to a new era of tourism that values people, planet, and authentic experiences.

Goa Tourism warmly invites travel professionals, investors, stakeholders, and global travelers to visit the Goa Pavilion – B13 and experience the true spirit of “Sunshine and More in Goa.”

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Goa Tourism Celebrates 11th International Yoga Day at Socorro with Resounding Participation

allycaralgoa

Socorro, 21st June 2025 – The Department of Tourism and Goa Tourism Development Corporation organized the 11th International Yoga Day in a grand and spirited manner at the Socorro Panchayat Hall, where over 150 participants gathered in a collective embrace of wellness, mindfulness, and community harmony. The celebrations reflected the State’s growing emphasis on integrating yoga and holistic health into its tourism narrative.

The celebrations were graced by the presence of Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan Khaunte, who emphasized the importance of yoga in promoting holistic health and positioning Goa as a wellness destination. Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, Managing Director of GTDC Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Socorro Sarpanch Smt. Soniya Pednekar, Penha de Franca Sarpanch Shri Swapnil Chodankar, and Zilla Panchayat Member Smt. Kavita Gupesh Naik was also in attendance, along with members of the Socorro Panchayat and officials from the Department of Tourism and GTDC. The inaugural function was compared by Mr. Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC.

Speaking at the occasion, Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “Yoga aligns with the core values of Goa’s Regenerative Tourism model—restoring balance, enhancing well-being, and empowering communities. Through initiatives like this, we’re not only celebrating India’s rich heritage but also encouraging both locals and visitors to embrace holistic living in Goa’s serene natural surroundings.”

Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik added,“Yoga Day is a reminder that wellness and tourism can go hand in hand. Goa is uniquely positioned to offer mindful, rejuvenating experiences, and we are actively working to create avenues that support year-round wellness-based tourism rooted in local culture and sustainability.”

The event featured a guided yoga session conducted by Mr. Tulsidas Mangueshkar, a Yoga Instructor and Evaluator certified by the Ministry of AYUSH, and Mrs. Pooja Tulsidas Mangueshkar, a certified yoga teacher, drawing participation from diverse age groups and communities. As part of the program, attendees were encouraged to adopt yoga as a daily practice to enhance physical vitality, mental clarity, and emotional balance.

As part of its broader vision, Goa has been actively promoting wellness and spiritual tourism. The State is promoting a slower, more conscious form of travel that nurtures both people and the planet. Initiatives such as the celebration of Yoga Day are a reflection of Goa’s aspiration as India’s premier wellness destination.

The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with local panchayats and stakeholders, continues to promote wellness-based experiences across Goa, reflecting the State’s commitment to building a healthier society and fostering mindful, sustainable tourism practices.

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Collaborative Push for Sustainable Tourism: Goa to Spotlight Forests, Waterfalls, and Hinterland

allycaralgoa

Panaji, 9th June 2025 – In a significant step towards expanding Goa’s tourism offerings beyond its iconic coastline, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, convened a meeting with the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC), to explore collaborative avenues for promoting hinterland, eco, wellness, and adventure tourism under the state’s vision of Goa Beyond Beaches. The meeting was led by Hon’ble Minister Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte and in the presence of Director Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik; Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar; GFDC Chairperson, Dr. Divya Rane; GFDC Managing Director, Nandkumar Parab; GFDC General Manager, Shri Amar Heblekar and OSD to Tourism Minister, Shri Shawn Mendes

Recognising the need for a more integrated and sustainable approach to tourism development, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed the importance of working in collaboration across departments to tap into Goa’s diverse natural and cultural assets. “If the Tourism Department and the Forest Department work in unison, a tremendous opportunity lies ahead for creating high-end, sustainable tourism experiences. This collaboration can serve as a blueprint for eco-tourism and nature-based experiences that benefit both locals and visitors,” the Minister stated.

The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to diversifying the tourism landscape by promoting nature, wellness, adventure, and cultural experiences nestled in Goa’s hinterland. “We must now turn our focus inward to our waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, forest heritage, and eco-trails. Together, we can craft an entirely new narrative for Goa that is inclusive, regenerative, and future-facing,” remarked GFDC Chairperson, Dr. Divya Rane.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to hold further deliberations in coordination with the Hon’ble Forest Minister and the Forest Department to translate this shared vision into actionable outcomes.

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Goa Tourism to Showcase Regenerative Tourism at ITB Berlin 2025

allycaralgoa

Goa Tourism is set to make a remarkable presence at ITB Berlin 2025, the world’s leading travel trade show, taking place from March 4 to 6, 2025, at the Messe Berlin ExpoCenter City, Germany. With a focus on regenerative tourism, cultural heritage, adventure, and wellness tourism, Goa aims to highlight its diverse offerings beyond its famous beaches.

The Goa Tourism Pavilion at ITB Berlin 2025 will offer visitors an immersive experience inspired by Goan heritage and architecture. Designed to highlight sustainable and regenerative tourism, the pavilion will showcase Goa’s commitment to responsible travel experiences.

“As we showcase Goa at ITB Berlin 2025, our focus remains on regenerative tourism, sustainability, and preserving Goa’s cultural identity,” said Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa. “Goa is more than just a beach destination; it is a land of rich heritage, spiritual sanctuaries, and immersive experiences that offer a deeper connection with nature and local communities. Through our participation at ITB Berlin, we aim to forge meaningful partnerships and position Goa as a leading global tourism destination that prioritizes responsible and conscious travel.”

“Our participation at ITB Berlin aligns with Goa’s vision to promote a tourism that is sustainable, community-driven, and economically beneficial,” said Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa. “By engaging with global stakeholders, we seek to bring in innovative tourism solutions, enhance our visitor experience, and ensure that tourism growth contributes positively to the environment and the people of Goa. We are actively promoting Goa beyond beaches, hinterland tourism, yoga and wellness tourism and much more.”

Visitors to the stall can explore Goa’s vibrant cultural heritage, lush hinterlands, spiritual tourism, adventure activities, and eco-friendly tourism experiences. To bring the essence of Goa to life, the pavilion will feature live cultural performances by professional Goan artists, displaying traditional music and dance forms. Additionally, an interactive Virtual Reality (VR) zone will take attendees to Goa’s breathtaking landscapes, festivals, and serene retreats.

As one of the premier global tourism trade events, ITB Berlin provides a crucial platform for Goa Tourism to connect with international tour operators, travel agencies, industry professionals, and potential investors. Goa’s delegation will actively engage in B2B meetings, networking sessions, and discussions to explore strategic partnerships and strengthen Goa’s global tourism footprint.

Goa Tourism’s participation at ITB Berlin aims to invite tourists in and around Germany and other European countries to see the beauty of Goa, it will also provide valuable insights into emerging travel trends, consumer preferences, and new opportunities, helping Goa Tourism refine its future promotional strategies. Goa Tourism invites travel professionals, media representatives, and investors to visit its pavilion at Hall 5.2b, Stand 225, and discover the many facets of Goa’s tourism landscape. From its cultural richness and adventure experiences to wellness retreats, visitors will experience firsthand why Goa remains one of the most captivating travel destinations in the world.