Goa Tourism Unveils the Grand Goa Pavilion at KITF, Showcasing Regenerative and Experiential Tourism for Kazakh Tourists
Goa Tourism has made a compelling statement on the global stage at the inauguration of KITF 2026 (Kazakhstan International Tourism Fair), where Mr. Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa, positioned Goa as a future-ready, high-value, global destination before an audience of high-profile stakeholders. The occasion underscored Goa’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and strategic international partnerships -particularly with partner countries like Kazakhstan. Now in its 26th edition, KITF is held annually in Almaty and draws leading tourism destinations from across the world.
In his keynote address, Minister Khaunte declared, “Goa is not just a destination -it’s a feeling, an experience. With a 104-kilometre coastline along the Arabian Sea, it is home to some of India’s most vibrant and accessible beaches. Yet, Goa offers far more than its shores.” He went on to outline growing aviation connectivity between the two countries, noting that Kazakhstan is already well connected to India through Air Astana with direct flights to Mumbai and Delhi and onward connectivity to Goa, and that advanced talks are underway for chartered flights from Almaty and Astana to Goa via FlyArystan and SCAT Airlines.
Goa’s participation at KITF 2026 marks a strategic step in expanding the state’s presence in Central Asian markets, attracting travellers who seek meaningful, high-quality experiences. Following the inaugural address, the delegation proceeded to the official opening of the Goa Pavilion, inaugurated by Mr. Smagulov Olzhas Mukhtarovich, Deputy Akim of Almaty City, in the presence of H.E. Mr. Y.K. Sailas Thangal, Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Kapashev Aidyn Boranbayevich, Deputy Chairman of the Tourism Industry Committee of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Gazizov Talgat Zhanatovich, Chairman of the Management Board of Kazakh Tourism National Company JSC, Edward Stroon, Chief Executive Officer of ICA Group, and other distinguished delegates.
The Goa Pavilion has been designed to reflect the state’s evolving tourism narrative -one that moves decisively beyond sun-and-sand to embrace immersive cultural experiences, hinterland exploration, wellness retreats, and regenerative tourism practices. It features curated showcases of Goa’s hinterland destinations including waterfalls, forests, and heritage villages, alongside the promotion of wellness tourism, homestays, and eco-conscious travel offerings. Authentic Goan cuisine takes centre stage through curated culinary experiences, while a dedicated B2B programme facilitates meetings aimed at strengthening travel partnerships and improving connectivity. The Pavilion equally serves as a dynamic platform to engage with travel trade stakeholders, media, and potential investors from Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asian region.
Through its participation at KITF 2026, Goa Tourism aims to strengthen bilateral tourism flows between Goa and Kazakhstan, promote charter and direct travel opportunities, and highlight the state’s premium, experiential, and sustainable tourism offerings to a rapidly growing outbound travel market. A series of B2B meetings, cultural presentations, and networking engagements are being hosted throughout the event to deepen trade relationships and cement Goa’s position as a premier global destination.
