Goa welcomed more than 5.45 million tourists, including over 2.7 lakh foreign visitors, in the first half of 2025, according to official data released by the state government on Thursday.
Speaking at an event, Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte highlighted the state’s efforts to enhance connectivity, noting new charter flights from Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, Moscow, and upcoming flights from Kazakhstan starting October 25. Airlines like Aeroflot now operate up to nine weekly flights to Goa, further boosting arrivals.
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In 2024, Goa recorded 10.41 million tourist arrivals, comprising 99.4 lakh domestic and 4.68 lakh foreign visitors. The first half of 2025 saw an 8% year-on-year growth, with 51.8 lakh domestic and 2.71 lakh foreign tourists visiting the coastal state.
Since 2023, Goa has focused on promoting tourism beyond beaches, highlighting its hinterland, waterfalls, temples, and wellness centres. Khaunte stated that the state is moving towards a “regenerative, inclusive, and experience-driven” model under the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
“From volume, we are now focusing on value and quality—longer stays, higher local spending, and greater community engagement,” Khaunte said. The state aims to shift from mass tourism to meaningful tourism, creating livelihoods while preserving Goa’s natural and cultural heritage.
New initiatives include the homestay policy, offering a 2 lakh grant for women-led units in the hinterland, Yuva Tourism Clubs promoting responsible travel among students, a Drone Tourism Policy, and a 2.5 million tourist safety insurance scheme.
Kedar Naik, Director of Goa Tourism, said, “Regenerative tourism ensures the destination thrives alongside its people. Investments in infrastructure, technology, and cultural preservation make Goa not just attractive, but sustainable for future generations.”
