Tourism in Goa is much more than sun, sand and parties: GTDC Chairman

Chairman of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) Ganesh Gaonkar said on Friday (February 21) that while Goa is globally renowned destination for tourism, it is no longer just about its beach and parties. To attract a broader range of visitors, Goa is now putting the spotlight on jungle safaris and its cultural heritage.

During his visit to the Goa Pavilion at the Surajkund International Crafts Mela in Faridabad Gaonkar remarked that thanks to the efforts of Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, the state’s tourism now offers many more attractions apart from its beaches.

He pointed out that tourists can now explore historical forts, ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and various goddesses, biodiversity parks, medicinal plant gardens, waterfalls, and UNESCO World Heritage sites in Goa’s hinterland, an official statement read.

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The Surajkund International Crafts Mela, which commenced on February 7, will run until February 23, showcasing art, craftsmanship, and talent by artists from India and abroad. Gaonkar added that Goa is in the process of restoring 25 ancient temples, which are akin to the famous temples of Kashi and Ujjain.

He pointed out that a grand Mahashivratri Mahotsav will be organised at the Mahadev Temple on February 25. Sunil Kumar, Managing Director of Haryana Tourism Corporation, said in a statement that both Goa and Haryana are collaborating to showcase their cultural heritage at the Surajkund Mela.

He added that both states will continue to work together to promote tourism in future. At the event, Goa’s artists impressed the crowd with traditional Konkani dance performances at Badi Chaupal.

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Last month in an exclusive conversation with CNBC-TV18, Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte explained that Goa was subjected to debate on social media over a subjective “decline in tourist arrivals”. He highlighted that the state is known for its cultural heritage, hinterland tourism and for being one of India’s top family destinations. The state welcomed 1.04 crore tourists in 2024, which is a 21% increase over the 86.28 lakh that arrived in 2023.

“Around 99.41 lakh domestic tourists visited Goa in 2024 compared to 81.75 lakh tourists in 2023, and the number of foreign tourists rose from 4.52 lakh in 2023 to 4.67 lakh in 2024,” he said.