On World Tourism Day, Goa reflects on the powerful connection between tourism and peace. Tourism has long been a bridge that brings people together, fostering understanding, respect, and cooperation across borders and cultures. Goa, a vibrant and culturally rich destination, stands as a testament to how regenerative and sustainable tourism can transform communities, preserve cultural heritage, and nurture peaceful coexistence. As we celebrate this day, it is essential to recognise Goa’s unique initiatives—Ekadasha Teertha, spiritual tourism, adventure tourism, eco-tourism, homestays, and promoting the state beyond its beaches—and their contribution to peace through tourism.
Goa's tourism sector has been widely celebrated, reflecting its strong leadership and forward-thinking approach. Under the guidance of Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, the state has achieved significant recognition. The Minister himself has been honoured with several prestigious awards, beginning with the Young Entrepreneur Award in 2003, presented by the then Governor of Goa, Late Kidar Nath Sahani. More recently, he received the Tourism Minister of the Year Award at the PATWA Travel Award Ceremony, ITB Berlin 2024, followed by the Excellence in Tourism Leadership Award at the Today's Travellers Award 2024 in Delhi, presented by Hon'ble Justice Kurian Joseph.
Goa has earned a series of prestigious accolades, reinforcing its position as a leading global destination. Notably, it was named Best State for Tourism at the Economic Times Travel & Tourism Conclave & Awards and recognised as the Destination of the Year at the PATWA Travel Award Ceremony, ITB Berlin 2024. In addition, Goa was honoured with the National Tourism Award 2022 for Best Civic Management of a Tourist Destination in India (Calangute village, Category C) and was inducted into the National Tourism Hall of Fame for its comprehensive tourism development as a Union Territory. The state's forward-thinking initiatives were further highlighted through the National Tourism Award for the Most Innovative Use of Information Technology, particularly for the GoaMiles taxi app. Goa also received accolades for being the Tourism State of the Year and the Best Fairs & Festival State at the ET Travel Awards, Delhi, as well as for the Best Intra-state Road Trip Route (Amboli Ghat-Goa) and Best Beach Destination (Morjim beach) at the Outlook Traveller Award. Additionally, the state was recognised as the Best State for Regenerative Tourism at the Today’s Travellers Award 2024, Delhi, under the Domestic Tourism category.
A pathway to peace
Tourism has long been recognised as a powerful means of fostering peace, a vision that Goa has fully embraced. The state’s tourism model not only attracts global visitors but actively encourages mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence among diverse cultures. By promoting spiritual tourism and eco-friendly initiatives, Goa has become a symbol of peace, where tourism serves as a medium for cultural exchange and shared harmony.
Sustainable tourism
Goa’s commitment to regenerative tourism perfectly aligns with the global focus on sustainability. By advancing eco-tourism, safeguarding heritage sites, and promoting rural tourism, Goa has created significant employment opportunities, particularly in rural regions. Initiatives like homestays, self help groups, and sustainable tourism practices have contributed to inclusive growth, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach all—from urban centers to the more tranquil countryside.
Preserving heritage
Through the preservation of its cultural and natural heritage—such as maintaining historic churches, temples, and pristine beaches. Its diverse cultural landscape, from vibrant festivals to UNESCO heritage sites, offers a rich platform for dialogue and mutual respect, fostering harmony across communities.
Tourism as a catalyst for economic cooperation and regional peace
Welcoming travelers from all over the world not only diversifies Goa’s tourism sources but also fosters peaceful economic interdependence. This cross-border cooperation strengthens economic ties and paves the way for peaceful regional development.
Travelers as agents of unity
Every visitor to Goa becomes an ambassador of peace. Through community-based tourism, interactions with local artisans, and participation in cultural events, tourists help build unity by respecting and engaging with Goa’s diverse traditions. They leave with a deeper appreciation for Goa's unique cultural fusion, spreading a message of mutual respect and understanding back to their home countries.
Promoting responsible travel
Goa’s initiatives in promoting responsible travel—ranging from digital awareness campaigns to eco-conscious travel options—serve as a call to action for travelers to respect local customs, support community enterprises, and reduce their environmental impact. These efforts ensure that tourism acts as a global connector, nurturing mutual respect between visitors and host communities.
Harnessing tourism to drive peace
Goa exemplifies how tourism can be a powerful tool for promoting both peace and prosperity. Through its focus on sustainable tourism practices, and wellness and adventure tourism, the state has leveraged tourism’s potential to boost economic stability, protect cultural heritage, and position itself as a global advocate for peace.
Ekadasha Teertha
Goa’s initiative, Ekadasha Teertha, revolves around eleven sacred sites that mark the historical spiritual legacy of the state. Pilgrimages and religious travel have always been about more than just visiting holy sites; they are about fostering peace within and among people. Ekadasha Teertha encourages visitors from all over India and the world to explore the rich spiritual history of Goa, blending culture, faith, and peace.
By welcoming people from diverse faiths and backgrounds, spiritual tourism fosters cross-cultural understanding. Pilgrims who visit these sacred sites experience local hospitality, tradition, and rituals, creating an environment where differences are respected and celebrated. The shared values of respect, humility, and reverence transcend borders, fostering a sense of unity among visitors.
In a world often divided by religious and cultural differences, spiritual tourism initiatives like Ekadasha Teertha serve as a reminder that peace can flourish when we acknowledge and celebrate our spiritual diversity. By investing in this initiative, Goa is not only preserving its cultural heritage but also promoting peaceful coexistence through shared spiritual experiences.
