Goa Sees Record Tourist Numbers in June 2025 Due to Festive Promotions

Goa’s tourism industry experienced a notable rise in both domestic and international visitors in June 2025, traditionally a quieter month for tourism. This encouraging growth is attributed to the Department of Tourism’s successful campaigns promoting Goa’s vibrant monsoon festivals and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights included São João and Chikal Kalo, two of Goa’s most beloved monsoon festivals. Celebrated across villages and local communities, these events showcase Goa’s deep-rooted traditions and communal spirit. Through digital storytelling, influencer collaborations, and local partnerships, the Department effectively reached newer, younger audiences.

This targeted marketing forms part of Goa’s broader Regenerative Tourism vision, which emphasises cultural conservation, community participation, and sustainable growth. The result has been a boost in bookings for homestays, hotels, and local experiences. Tourism businesses, from hotels and cruise operators to cultural guides and artisans, reported increased enquiries, higher visitor numbers, and more meaningful engagement.

Jack Sukhija, President, TTAG, stated, "This June has been unlike any other in recent years. The renewed focus on promoting traditional Goan festivals has brought in a wave of culturally curious travellers. It's heartening to see guests not just staying at our properties, but actively participating in local events, asking about their origins, and truly engaging with the spirit of Goa."

"The efforts of thoughtful promotions by the GoaTourism Department revolving around local culture and festivals has resulted in a lot more interest by visitors resulting in a more active participation of guests during festivals like Sao Joao. We have seen good occupancies in North and South GoainJune due to these more grounded and genuine storytelling around Goa," added Ranjit Phillipose, Senior Vice President – Operations, IHCL, Goa.

Importantly, these initiatives are part of a long-term strategy to reframe Goa as more than just a sun-and-sand destination. With upcoming festivals like Chikhal Kalo from July 5 to 7, heritage walks, and spiritual circuits gaining popularity, industry stakeholders believe Goa is establishing itself as a year-round tourism hotspot.

Additionally, the ‘Glow on Arrival’ campaign showcased Goa’s calming monsoon scenery — misty hills, lush greenery, and soothing rain — creating an inviting environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. This campaign encourages visitors to see the rainy season as an ideal time for renewal and connection.

The Department of Tourism has reaffirmed its dedication to supporting community-focused tourism, working closely with local entrepreneurs, cultural custodians, and tourism partners to sustain this positive momentum.