In a departure from the usual perception of Goa as primarily a beach destination, Rohan Khaunte, the state’s minister for Tourism, IT, Electronics & Communication, and Printing & Stationery, highlighted the wide array of tourism experiences that Goa has to offer. Speaking at the South Asia's Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE) 2024 in Greater Noida, Khaunte emphasized Goa's rich offerings in history, culture, heritage, unique festivals, culinary delights, and rural tourism.

In his address, Khaunte said, “Goa is stepping beyond its iconic image as just a beach destination. We are the first state in India to introduce a model for regenerative tourism, showcasing our commitment to sustainable and holistic tourist experiences.”

Adding to this initiative, the Goa Department of Tourism has entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MakeMyTrip, one of the leaders in the online travel space. This partnership, the first of its kind in a public-private collaboration, aims to transform Goa into a vibrant, year-round tourism hub, extending beyond its traditional allure of sun, sand, and beaches.

The partnership with MakeMyTrip is expected to boost Goa's visibility as a multifaceted tourism destination and facilitate ease of travel for tourists seeking varied experiences. “We are also committed to strengthening international connectivity to Goa, making it more accessible to tourists from across the globe,” Khaunte added, highlighting efforts to enhance Goa's appeal to a global audience.

A key initiative under Goa's regenerative tourism model is the launch of the Ekadasha Teertha campaign. This innovative campaign aims to connect eleven significant places of worship in Goa, creating a unique travel circuit that offers spiritual, cultural, and historical insights into the region. This initiative not only diversifies the tourist experience in Goa but also promotes religious and cultural tourism.