Goa made an impressive global statement at ITB Asia 2025, Singapore’s leading travel and tourism exhibition, by positioning itself as the “Gateway to All Possibilities.” The coastal state, long celebrated as India’s most popular holiday destination, showcased its pioneering Regenerative Tourism model – a forward-thinking approach that blends sustainability, cultural preservation, and economic growth – aiming to build stronger global tourism partnerships and inspire responsible travel.
Led by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the delegation highlighted how the state is reimagining tourism to ensure inclusive development, community well-being, and environmental stewardship. The team included Mr.Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC; Mr. Rajesh Kale, Deputy Director of Tourism; Mr. Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing/Hotels) and PRO, GTDC;Mr.Nivrutti Parsekar, Superintending Engineer (GTDC); Mr.Amar Heblekar, General Manager (GFDC); and Mr.Vishesh Naik, Senior Manager, GTDC.
The Goa Pavilion at ITB Asia was inaugurated by Dr. Shilpak Ambule, High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Singapore, in the presence of senior tourism officials and partners. The pavilion drew widespread attention for its immersive display of Goa’s diverse offerings-from pristine beaches and hinterland trails to festivals, wellness retreats, and eco-lodges.
A Vision Rooted in Regeneration and Inclusivity
Speaking about Goa’s participation, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Mr. Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that Goa’s presence at ITB Asia opens new avenues for strategic international engagement.
“Our participation at ITB Asia 2025 has helped Goa attract quality tourism, diversify source markets, and strengthen global collaborations. Through such international platforms, we aim to reinforce Goa’s identity as a destination that grows responsibly while contributing positively to the global tourism landscape,” he said.
“These exchanges pave the way for long-term partnerships aligned with our vision of building a tourism ecosystem rooted in regeneration and inclusivity.”
Director of Tourism, Mr.Kedar Naik, highlighted Goa’s commitment to expanding international reach while preserving its heritage:
“We aim to attract travellers who value authenticity and sustainability – those who come not just to visit, but to connect with Goa’s culture, wellness, and natural charm.”
Adding to this, Mr.Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, stated:
“ITB Asia 2025 allows us to explore innovative tourism collaborations with a focus on sustainability, wellness, and cultural experiences. Our regenerative tourism model ensures that growth directly benefits local communities while preserving Goa’s ecological and cultural heritage.”
Goa’s Showcase: Beyond Beaches, Toward Balanced Growth
Goa’s participation at ITB Asia 2025 was not just about showcasing its iconic beaches but about redefining the perception of Goa as a year-round destination. The state presented a diverse portfolio of experiences that included:Adventure & Coastal Tourism: (Regulated watersports, eco-trails, bungee jumping, kayaking, and responsible beach tourism), Eco & Hinterland Tourism: (Exploration of six wildlife sanctuaries, one national park, and a bird sanctuary, alongside caravan and agro-tourism initiatives that support rural livelihoods).Cultural Heritage (Goa’s vibrant festivals – from Carnival to Shigmo and Chikalkalo -celebrate its living traditions).Romance & Wellness (Ayurveda, spa, and yoga retreats).Gastronomy & Creativity (Goan cuisine, flea markets, and festivals like IFFI and Serendipity).
In his presentation at ITB Asia, Mr.Kuldeep Arolkar highlighted Goa’s strong tourism performance in 2024, recording 10.4 million tourist arrivals, including 9.95 million domestic and 0.45 million international visitors. The state boasts an average stay of four days for domestic and nine days for international tourists, contributing 16.4% to Goa’s GDP and supporting 35% of the state’s workforce.
With two international airports (Dabolim and Mopa), world-class cruise terminals, and robust rail and highway networks, Goa offers seamless global connectivity. Singapore, in particular, enjoys direct air links to 16 Indian cities, supported by India’s e-Visa facility, making travel to Goa more convenient than ever.
As part of its eco-tourism promotion, Goa Tourism spotlighted natural treasures such as Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary, Silvan Cottages, and the world-famous Dudhsagar Waterfalls. These initiatives reflect the state’s evolving focus on nature-based experiences, encouraging visitors to explore Goa’s lesser-known hinterlands and support community-led tourism projects.
Exhibitors and partners at the Goa Pavilion -including Concord Exotic Voyages and Minar Travels Goa – presented premium travel products and curated itineraries that showcased Goa’s blend of luxury, heritage, and sustainability.
A Model for Future Tourism
Goa’s Regenerative Tourism model represents a paradigm shift in how destinations can grow responsibly while preserving their soul. The model integrates sustainability, community benefit, and visitor experience, ensuring that tourism supports both the local economy and the environment.
The state’s participation at ITB Asia 2025 reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and global collaboration, setting a new benchmark for how destinations can thrive post-pandemic by balancing prosperity with preservation.
“Goa’s goal is to inspire the world with a tourism model that’s vibrant, inclusive, and regenerative – where every journey contributes to preserving the essence of the destination,” said Minister Khaunte.
With its rich culture, unmatched landscapes, and renewed commitment to sustainability, Goa has firmly positioned itself on the global tourism map as “The Gateway to All Possibilities.”
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