State marks World Tourism Day 2025 with heritage, nature, gastronomy, and inclusive experiences showcasing “Beyond Beaches” vision
Goa, 26 September 2025: Goa, India’s most celebrated tourism destination, has reinforced its leadership in sustainable travel by celebrating World Tourism Day 2025 with a month-long programme that placed communities, culture, and inclusivity at the heart of the visitor experience.
Organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and Yuva Tourism Clubs, the celebrations brought together locals, students, and travellers for immersive activities that extended beyond Goa’s beaches.
From bioluminescent forest walks, kayaking, and cycling tours through Chorao to heritage walks at Aguad and Monte Santo, as well as bread-making and coconut farming sessions in Goan villages, each event highlighted the state’s regenerative tourism model. More than 200 participants engaged in these initiatives, which preserved natural assets while uplifting communities and enriching visitor experiences.
“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,” said Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte.
A special focus was placed on youth engagement. Over 100 students from 30+ colleges participated in eco-walks, picnics, cycling tours, and culinary workshops through the Yuva Tourism Clubs, building awareness around heritage and sustainability while nurturing future Tourism Ambassadors.
Demonstrating inclusivity, the Department also hosted special cruises for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and children from orphanages, underscoring its vision of accessible tourism for all.
Adding culinary flavour, cooking competitions at IIHM Goa (17–18 September) and IHM Goa (22–23 September) showcased emerging hospitality talent while celebrating the state’s vibrant food culture.
In a boost to its meetings and events sector, Goa also launched its MICE Promotion Bureau during the state’s largest Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa, positioning the destination prominently on the global MICE map.
The month-long festivities will close with a Film Festival at ESG on 28 September, highlighting Goa’s heritage and biodiversity with a focus on conservation.
“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,” said Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik.
The celebrations also coincide with strong growth in Goa’s tourism sector. From January to June 2025, the state welcomed 5.45 million visitors, an 8.4% year-on-year increase. Of these, 5.18 million were domestic and 0.27 million international arrivals, complemented by 34,121 cruise passengers. Expanded international flights, new charter operations, and enhanced cruise connectivity continue to strengthen Goa’s multi-modal access.
With its regenerative tourism model gaining both national and global recognition, Goa is setting new benchmarks in sustainable tourism while offering visitors authentic and high-quality experiences that go far “beyond beaches.”
As the state enters its Golden Season 2025–26, the Department of Tourism invites travellers, students, stakeholders, and residents to rediscover Goa through a fresh, inclusive, and meaningful lens.
About Department of Tourism, Government of Goa
The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is committed to promoting the state as a leading global travel destination by balancing growth with sustainability. Through heritage, cultural, nature-based, and inclusive initiatives, it aims to strengthen Goa’s positioning as a model of regenerative tourism.