Goa Tourism is expanding its appeal beyond its famous beaches with the 'Goa Beyond Beaches' initiative. According to Deepak Narvekar from the tourism department, this effort aims to draw attention to Goa's diverse destinations, away from the bustling coastal areas. The initiative promotes cultural and natural attractions such as heritage villages and wildlife sanctuaries like Cotigao and Mhadei. Tourists are encouraged to experience local life through homestays, where they can enjoy traditional Goan cuisine and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Narvekar highlighted the growing popularity of this concept, noting an increasing number of visitors exploring Goa's inland regions like Canacona, Bicholim, and Sattari. The state government supports this initiative by providing financial aid to set up homestays, ensuring tourists have comfortable accommodations while enjoying rural experiences.
Additionally, Goa Tourism is simplifying the process for destination weddings through its 'Wed in Goa' policy, aiming to make beach and hotel weddings more accessible for both domestic and international couples. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to diversify Goa's tourism offerings and attract a wider range of travelers seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty beyond the coastal attractions.