Goa, May 2024 - The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is delighted to announce its participation in the 13th edition of the esteemed Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB), scheduled to take place from May 5th to May 7th, 2024, in JECC, Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Goa, will leverage this platform to showcase its unique tourism offerings and attract travelers from around the world. With a diverse range of experiences, including water sports, historical landmarks, and vibrant festivals, it promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. The Goa Tourism Pavilion at GITB will virtually feature sustainable initiatives under the Regenerative Tourism approach, focusing on pillars such as hinterland exploration, restoration and revitalization of natural and cultural assets, and a journey towards spiritual tourism, among others. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the Ekadasha Teertha circuit, which includes 11 temples, and witness the exposition of St. Francis Xavier at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, scheduled to take place from November 21st, 2024, until January 5th, 2025. 

At Goa's Pavilion, visitors are immersed in a dynamic blend of interactive exhibits, engaging discussions, and immersive experiences that illuminate the symbiotic relationship between tourism and sustainability. Central to the showcase by Goa Tourism is the groundbreaking concept of regenerative tourism – an approach that transcends mere conservation to actively rejuvenate and replenish natural and cultural assets, all while bolstering the welfare of local communities.

Set to sparkle amidst the vibrant tapestry of the Global Tourism Innovation Summit (GITB) 2024 in Jaipur, the eagerly anticipated "The Wed in India Expo" on May 5th, 2024, marks a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Tourism, Rajasthan Tourism, and FICCI. This initiative aims to position India as the ultimate wedding destination. Alongside the esteemed Great Indian Travel Bazaar from May 6th to 7th, the Expo will unveil India's myriad wedding locales and experiences.

With an impressive gathering of around 250 participants, including state tourism bodies, seasoned wedding planners, esteemed hoteliers, dynamic tour operators, and accomplished event management firms, the Expo will host enlightening sessions and engaging roundtable discussions. This kaleidoscopic event promises to illuminate the rich tapestry of India's wedding tourism sector while nurturing dialogue to sculpt growth-oriented policies.

In this dazzling panorama, Goa emerges as a premier wedding destination, poised to shine brightly amidst the vibrant tapestry of offerings at The Wed in India Expo. This unique platform presents an unparalleled opportunity to showcase Goa's allure and charm, captivating hearts with its picturesque settings and warm hospitality. The presence of Goa's Pavilion further accentuates its burgeoning wedding and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism sectors. Firmly entrenched as one of the top wedding destinations globally, Goa draws couples from around the world to exchange vows amidst its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Our focused participation underscores our commitment to not only deliver unforgettable experiences but also to bolster the local economy and support small businesses.

Simultaneously, we are dedicated to fostering the growth of MICE tourism in Goa. With its blend of modern infrastructure and timeless charm, Goa presents an ideal setting for hosting corporate events, conferences, and exhibitions. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, we are actively working to enhance the MICE offerings, ensuring seamless logistics, world-class facilities, and unparalleled hospitality to cater to the diverse needs of business travelers and event organizers.

"Goa Tourism's participation at GITB 2024 is not just about showcasing our cultural and spiritual treasures – it's also about promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities," said Mr. Suneel Achipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director GTDC. "Through our participation, we aim to inspire travelers to make conscious choices that support responsible tourism and contribute to the long-term well-being of our planet."

Mr. Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS, Secretary Tourism, Government of Goa stated “GITB provides an unparalleled platform for Goa to engage with industry stakeholders, forge partnerships, and elevate the profile of our destination. "We are excited to present our innovative initiatives and collaborative efforts at the event, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable tourism practices. We look forward to welcoming visitors to our pavilion and sharing the beauty and hospitality of Goa with the world"

In essence, Goa's Pavilion encapsulates the spirit of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity that defines the region's approach to tourism. By championing regenerative practices and embracing the unique opportunities presented by wedding and MICE tourism, we are not only shaping Goa as a global destination but also paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future for all.