Goa recorded 7.69 million tourist arrivals between January and September 2026, increasing it to 0.76% from the corresponding period last year as the state looks to strengthen year-round travel demand through a wider range of tourism experiences.
According to official figures released on Saturday, the coastal state welcomed 7,690,149 visitors during the nine-month period, compared with 7,632,100 in 2025. Domestic arrivals rose 1.72% year-on-year to 7,421,709 from 7,296,068, accounting for the majority of visitors.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said the figures is a prrof of continued confidence in Goa as a travel destination. The government is promoting spiritual and cultural heritage, wellness experiences, adventure activities and hinterland destinations to attract different categories of travellers.
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They also aims to encourage longer stays and distribute tourism-related economic benefits across more communities and locations.
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Goa Targets International Markets
Goa's tourism department is working with airlines, tour operators and other industry players to improve air connectivity and attract visitors from markets including Europe, the UK, Russia and Central Asia, Director of Tourism Kedar Naik said.
The state government is also looking to reduce its dependence on seasonal beach tourism by promoting other segments, including cultural, wellness and adventure travel, as well as destinations in the hinterland.
Goa wants to build a year-round tourism model by expanding beyond its established beach destinations and holiday offerings. Greater emphasis on culture, wellness, adventure and community-led experiences is intended to give visitors more reasons to explore the state throughout the year.
The approach could also create opportunities for local businesses by directing visitor spending towards inland destinations and community-based activities.
However, overall tourist arrivals grew by less than 1% in the first nine months of 2026. Sustaining growth and attracting new visitor segments will remain important as Goa works to broaden its tourism appeal and reduce dependence on seasonal travel.
(With PTI Inputs)
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