Goa Sees Tourism Boom in 2025, Targets New Markets to Boost Local Economy
Goa, the popular Indian tourist destination, has seen a significant increase in visitors this year. In the first half of 2025, over 54.5 lakh tourists, including 2.71 lakh foreigners, visited the state, marking an 8% rise from the previous year. However, the state is working to diversify its tourist markets and boost local spending.
Goa's foreign tourist numbers are still below pre-COVID levels, prompting the state to explore new markets. Starting on October 25, charter flights from Kazakhstan will commence, with plans to expand to other emerging markets like Poland and Kyrgyzstan. Aeroflot has also increased its flights to Goa, operating up to nine weekly services. Additionally, charter flights from Russian cities have begun, with Goa targeting Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus for renewed tourism.
The state aims to shift from mass tourism to a more meaningful approach, creating livelihoods and preserving Goa's identity. In 2024, Goa welcomed a total of 1.04 crore tourist arrivals, including 99.4 lakh domestic visitors and 4.67 lakh international tourists. Despite the challenges, Goa's recovery in foreign tourist arrivals is better compared to other states, with over 50% recovery from pre-COVID figures.
Goa's efforts to revive and diversify its foreign tourist arrivals are showing promise. With new charter flights and a focus on longer stays and higher local spending, the state is working towards a more sustainable and meaningful tourism industry.
