Goa Showcases Itself As The Gateway to Possibilities at ITB Asia 2025

Goa opened its pavilion on the first day of ITB Asia 2025 with a compelling showcase of its Regenerative Tourism approach, emphasising culture, connectivity, wellness, eco-tourism, and sustainable growth. The pavilion was inaugurated by Dr Shilpak Ambule, High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Singapore, in the presence of key officials from the Department of Tourism: Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC; Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager, GTDC; Rajesh Kale, Deputy Director Tourism; Niurutti Parsekar, Superintending Engineer, GTDC; Amar Heblekar, Forest Corporation; and Vishesh Naik, Sr. Manager, GTDC.

Minister for Tourism, Rohan A Khaunte, stated, “Goa has always been known for its natural charm and unique identity. As the first state in India to adopt Regenerative Tourism, we are reimagining the way tourism impacts destinations. Our focus is to create immersive experiences while preserving our heritage, ecosystems, and culture. ITB Asia provides us with the perfect global stage to showcase our vision and build meaningful international collaborations.”

Director Tourism, Kedar Naik, stated, “Our aim is to strengthen Goa’s positioning as a globally preferred destination for leisure, wellness, adventure, and MICE tourism. With strong connectivity, world-class infrastructure, and an authentic cultural experience, Goa is ready to welcome the world.”

Delivering a detailed presentation, Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC, highlighted Goa’s growing global appeal as the “Gateway to All Possibilities.” The presentation underscored Goa’s commitment to responsible and inclusive tourism, balancing economic progress with environmental preservation and community well-being. “Goa has always been known for its natural charm and unique identity. As the first state in India to adopt Regenerative Tourism, our vision is to build a model where culture, experiences, and sustainability go hand in hand. Our participation at ITB Asia aims to strengthen international collaborations, attract conscious travellers, and position Goa as a premium, year-round destination.”

On Days 1 and 2 of ITB Asia, the Goa delegation engaged with tour operators, travel agents, and media from Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, the USA, Spain, Mauritius, Dubai, and Taiwan, exploring new opportunities to expand international connectivity and inbound tourism to the state.

The Goa Pavilion also featured exhibitors and partners, including Concord Exotic Voyages and Minar Travels Goa. These partners showcased a wide range of premium tourism experiences, itineraries, and curated travel packages that reflect Goa’s evolving global positioning.

As part of its marketing and promotional campaign, Goa Tourism also highlighted the state’s thriving eco-tourism offerings that go beyond beaches and nightlife, showcasing a more immersive and nature-based travel experience: Bondla Zoo & Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, a serene haven for wildlife enthusiasts located in North Goa, known for its lush greenery, nature trails, and conservation efforts; Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in South Goa, celebrated for its rich biodiversity, waterfalls, and picturesque forest landscapes; Silvan Cottages, eco-stay options offering visitors a sustainable and authentic experience close to nature; Dudhsagar Falls, one of India’s highest and most breathtaking waterfalls, a major international attraction drawing thousands of nature and adventure seekers each year. This dedicated eco-tourism promotion reinforces Goa’s commitment to regenerative and sustainable tourism, encouraging visitors to explore the state’s hinterlands, support local communities, and experience its natural heritage responsibly.

The presentation by the MD of GTDC showcased Goa’s remarkable tourism performance of 10.4 million tourist arrivals in 2024, including 9.95 million domestic and 0.45 million international visitors, an average stay of 4 days (domestic) and 9 days (international), and a tourism contribution of 16.4 per cent to Goa’s GDP, supporting 35 per cent of the state’s workforce.

With two international airports, world-class cruise terminals, strong railway and highway networks, and five key entry points, Goa offers seamless connectivity for both domestic and international travellers. Singapore enjoys direct connectivity to 16 Indian cities, with e-Visa facilities ensuring smooth entry for travellers heading to Goa via Dabolim and Mopa airports.

Delegates and trade partners were introduced to the multi-layered tourism offerings that make Goa truly unique: Adventure & Coastal Tourism – regulated watersports, beach experiences, bungee jumping, eco-trails, and kayaking. Eco & Hinterland Tourism – six wildlife sanctuaries, one national park, and a bird sanctuary, along with homestays, caravan tourism, and agro-tourism initiatives promoting rural livelihoods. Cultural Heritage – from Carnival to Shigmo and Chikalkalo, Goa’s vibrant festivals celebrate legacies and living traditions. Romance & Wellness – recognised among Asia’s most romantic destinations, Goa is also a global wellness hub with Ayurveda retreats and yoga experiences. Gastronomy & Creativity – authentic Goan cuisine, flea markets, local artisans, film tourism, and literature festivals like IFFI and Serendipity reflect Goa’s cultural depth.

Whether it’s leisure travellers seeking pristine beaches, adventure seekers exploring the hinterlands, wellness enthusiasts on yoga retreats, or MICE and film tourism, Goa offers an exceptionally diverse tourism ecosystem. Its regenerative approach ensures that tourism growth strengthens communities and preserves natural assets for future generations.

Goa’s participation at ITB Asia 2025 marks a significant step in expanding its international tourism footprint. The state’s vision is to inspire the world with a tourism model that’s vibrant, inclusive, and regenerative — where every journey contributes to preserving the soul of the destination.