Panaji, October 16, 2026: Goa is gearing up to welcome a significant influx of tourists over the coming weeks as the Dussehra weekend and Diwali holidays approach, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a very busy winter tourism season. With most beach shacks operational across the coastline, improved air and road connectivity, and growing interest in festive getaways and native experiences, the state is preparing for strong visitor arrivals.
Growing interest in Goa as a festive holiday destination is reflected in travel search trends, with the state recording nearly 43 per cent year-on-year growth in searches by Indian travellers for the October-November holiday period, according to Agoda data. The trend highlights Goa’s continued appeal among domestic travellers planning festive getaways and extended holidays.
Shri. Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, said, “Goa is looking forward to a vibrant festive tourism season as travellers plan their Dussehra and Diwali holidays. With our beach shacks reopening and improved connectivity through both airports, the state is well positioned to welcome visitors from across the country and the world. Our focus has been on strengthening Goa's year-round tourism appeal, improving visitor experiences and ensuring that tourism creates opportunities for our local businesses and communities. We invite travellers to experience not only our beautiful beaches but also Goa's heritage, cuisine, culture and the many experiences that make every visit memorable.”
The festive travel period comes as Goa’s tourism industry enters its peak season, with hotels, resorts, beach shacks, restaurants and tourism operators preparing to welcome holidaymakers. The upcoming Dussehra celebrations on October 20, followed by the Diwali holiday period in early November, are expected to encourage short breaks, extended family holidays and leisure travel, particularly from major domestic source markets.
Cruz Cardozo, President of the Shack Owners’ Welfare Society, said, “Most of Goa’s beach shacks are now operational, and we are all ready to welcome visitors for the festive and winter season. Tourists can look forward to the best of Goan food, warm hospitality, local experiences and the unique atmosphere of our beaches. At the same time, tourism is a shared responsibility. We encourage every visitor to enjoy Goa to the fullest, but also to be responsible, respect our local culture and communities, follow the law and help us keep our beaches clean and safe.”
Improved air connectivity is expected to further support tourist arrivals. Goa’s two international airports, Goa International Airport at Dabolim and Manohar International Airport at Mopa, continue to provide access to major destinations, with airlines expanding services and frequencies as part of their winter schedules. Recent airline announcements include additional flight frequencies, such as Akasa Air launching direct flights from Chandigarh to Goa starting December, and strengthening of international direct connectivity, further improving access to Goa ahead of the winter season.
Shri. Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, said, “The festive period is an important time for Goa Tourism, and we are preparing to welcome visitors with a strong focus on safety, responsible tourism and a seamless visitor experience. Improved air and road connectivity is making Goa increasingly accessible, while the diversity of experiences available across the state gives travellers many more reasons to explore beyond the conventional. From our beaches and heritage to nature, wellness, cuisine and hinterland experiences, we encourage visitors to discover more of Goa, travel responsibly and respect the local communities and environment that make the destination unique.”
Beyond its beaches, Goa is also encouraging travellers to explore its diverse tourism offerings during the festive period. From heritage walks through Fontainhas and Old Goa to culinary experiences, spice plantations, river cruises, wellness retreats and hinterland exploration, the state offers a wide range of experiences for families, couples and groups seeking a memorable holiday.
Parag Rangnekar, Wildlife Conservationist and Founder of Mrugaya Xpeditions, said, “For all tourists, Goa can offer a combination of tropical biodiversity, coastal and wetland wildlife, guided nature experiences and opportunities to interact with the local communities, which is unique. There is scope to combine these experiences within Goa’s attractions. A few mornings of birdwatching, guided forest walks, a village experience and a coastal excursion can add a distinctive dimension to an otherwise conventional itinerary.”
The anticipated increase in tourist activity is expected to benefit a broad cross-section of Goa's tourism economy, including hotels, homestays, restaurants, beach shacks, taxi operators, local guides, artisans and experience providers.
