In a major boost to its tourism sector, Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte announced an INR 350 crore development plan during the State Legislative Assembly session. The roadmap, centered around the “Goa Beyond Beaches” initiative, aims to transform the state into a premium global destination by enhancing infrastructure, expanding international air connectivity, and promoting regenerative tourism with a focus on cultural, spiritual, and ecological experiences.
The state has witnessed strong recovery post-COVID, with 10.4 million tourist arrivals in 2024—an increase of 39.5% in domestic and 50% in international visitors compared to 2019. In the first half of 2025 alone, Goa recorded 5.45 million visitors, driven by events like São João, forest stays, and creek tours. Hotel occupancy during this period ranged between 70% and 100%.
Connectivity is a key driver of this growth. Direct flights from Gatwick to Goa will resume by September-end, while Aeroflot will begin thrice-weekly flights from Yekaterinburg, Russia starting October 5. New air links with Poland, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are also boosting arrivals, in line with the national “Chalo India” campaign.
Goa has become the first Indian state to adopt regenerative tourism, focusing on People, Economy, and Environment. A highlight is the Ekadasha Teertha initiative, a spiritual circuit linking 11 historic temples via three themed routes. GTDC buses have been deployed and tenders floated for developing tourist facilities at these sites.
Two major infrastructure projects under central government schemes are underway: the INR 161 crore Unity Mall in Chimbel and the INR 125 crore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum in Ponda, with INR 98 crore funded by the Centre. These aim to elevate Goa’s cultural tourism offerings.
September’s World Tourism Day will now be celebrated as a month-long World Tourism Month, featuring festivals such as São João, Shigmo, Sangodd, Chikhal Kalo, Deepotsav, and Carnival, supported by the government to attract tourists during the monsoon.
To improve safety and visitor experience, initiatives like the 1364 tourist helpline, Beach Vigil App, lifeguard deployment, and a dedicated beach cleaning agency have been launched. Enforcement against touts has intensified, with 318 bookings made this year. Stray dog management is also being addressed in coordination with local bodies.
The state is also supporting shack operators and emphasizing quality over quantity in tourism. High hotel occupancy reflects a shift toward attracting higher-spending, responsible travelers. The TIME (Tourism Information Management Enterprise) system is being expanded to gather real-time hotel data across Goa.
With a focus on sustainability, infrastructure, safety, and cultural revival, Goa’s INR 350 crore tourism overhaul is set to redefine the state’s image and position it as a leading global destination beyond its iconic beaches.
