Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has rejected claims that the state’s tourism industry is in decline, attributing concerns to misleading narratives from social media influencers. Speaking at the Ideas of India Summit 2025, he emphasised that Goa remains a premier tourist destination known for its safety, cleanliness, and vibrant appeal. Sawant cited a 21% increase in visitor numbers, stating that approximately 10 million tourists arrived last year, compared to eight million the year before. However, he did not provide a specific timeframe for these figures.
Despite the growth in domestic tourism, Goa has seen a sharp decline in foreign visitors, with numbers falling by more than half since pre-pandemic levels in 2018-19. A major factor driving this shift is the increasing preference for Southeast Asian destinations like Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam. These countries offer better infrastructure, budget-friendly options, and relaxed visa policies, making them attractive alternatives for Indian travelers. In 2024 alone, Thailand welcomed two million Indian tourists, highlighting this trend.
Rising costs in Goa are another concern. A four-night stay in the state often exceeds the price of similar accommodations in Bali or Krabi, even though flights to these international locations may be costlier. Additionally, transportation issues persist, with tourists frequently reporting overcharging by local taxi operators. While the GoaMiles app was introduced in 2018 to address this issue, its effectiveness remains limited due to the absence of popular ride-hailing services like Uber and Ola.
Addressing safety concerns, Sawant acknowledged recent tourist assault cases but downplayed their impact, stating they involved both parties. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting alternative tourism avenues such as sports and spiritual tourism. To boost confidence among travellers, he encouraged visitors to book accommodations through government-approved websites, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience in Goa.