Goa Champions Regenerative and Inclusive Tourism with Month-Long Celebrations for World Tourism Day 2025
Goa, India’s most celebrated tourism destination, has once again demonstrated its leadership by marking World Tourism Day 2025 with a month-long calendar of immersive experiences that put communities, culture, and sustainability at the heart of travel.
At the start of September, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, promised a vibrant programme of activities leading up to World Tourism Day. In collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Clubs, that promise has been fulfilled through a dynamic series of events spanning heritage, nature, gastronomy, and inclusive tourism.
Throughout September, locals, students, and visitors were invited to step beyond the beaches and experience Goa’s hidden treasures. Activities included bioluminescent forest walks, kayaking and river cruises, cycling tours through Chorao, heritage walks at Aguad and Monte Santo, and bread-making and coconut farming experiences in Goan villages. Each event showcased Goa’s diverse offerings and its regenerative tourism model, one that preserves natural assets, uplifts communities, and enhances visitor experiences with over 200 people.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated “World Tourism Day is about celebrating people, culture, and sustainability. Goa is embracing new experiences while creating opportunities for our youth, communities, and industry. Together, we are shaping a tourism ecosystem that is vibrant, inclusive, and future-ready.”
A highlight of the celebrations has been the active participation of Goa’s young people.
Through the Yuva Tourism Clubs, over 100 students from more than 30 colleges took part in eco-walks, picnics, cycling tours, and culinary activities. These initiatives nurture a love for heritage, sustainability, and community tourism among the next generation, positioning youth as future Tourism Ambassadors.
In a strong demonstration of inclusivity, the Department of Tourism organised special boat cruises for persons with disabilities, senior citizens from old-age homes, and children from orphanages. These activities reaffirm Goa’s commitment to making tourism accessible and joyful for all sections of society.
Adding a culinary dimension, cooking competitions at IIHM Goa (17–18 September) and IHM Goa (22–23 September) provided a platform for emerging hospitality talent and celebrated Goa’s diverse food culture.
The month also marked a milestone for the state’s meetings and events sector. The largest Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa will witness the launch of the MICE Promotion Bureau, positioning Goa as a premier destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions on the global map.
The celebrations will culminate with a one-day Film Festival at ESG on 28 September, showcasing the heritage and biodiversity of Goa with a focus on conservation and sustainability — a fitting finale to a month that united government, industry, communities, and visitors under a single vision.
Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik stated “These activities represent a holistic approach to tourism development. By combining heritage walks, nature trails, culinary sessions, inclusive cruises and new initiatives, we are ensuring that tourism in Goa is sustainable, inclusive and future-ready. This collaborative effort is aimed at attracting visitors and also enriching local communities and empowering the next generation.”
This year’s celebrations also come on the back of strong growth. From January to June 2025, Goa welcomed 5.45 million visitors, 5.18 million domestic and 0.27 million international, an 8.4% year-on-year increase. Cruise arrivals added 34,121 passengers, underscoring the state’s growing multi-modal access supported by expanded international air services, new charter operations, and enhanced cruise connectivity.
With its regenerative tourism model gaining recognition nationally and internationally, Goa is charting a bold path “beyond beaches,” offering authentic, high-quality experiences that empower people, safeguard the environment, and tell the world a richer story of who we are.
As the state enters the Golden Season 2025–26, the Department of Tourism invites travellers, students, stakeholders, and residents alike to experience Goa through a fresh and meaningful lens.
