Panaji: Goa recorded 7.69 million tourist arrivals in the first nine months of 2026, registering marginal growth of 0.76 per cent over the corresponding period last year, according to official figures.
The coastal state received 7,690,149 tourists between January and September this year, compared to 7,632,100 during the same period in 2025.
Domestic tourist arrivals increased by 1.72 per cent to 7,421,709 during the January-September period this year, up from 7,296,068 in the corresponding period last year, the figures showed.
Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte said the performance reflected continued confidence among travellers in Goa as a destination.
The state government is focusing on promoting spiritual and cultural heritage, wellness experiences, hinterland destinations, adventure activities and community-led tourism to encourage longer stays and distribute economic benefits across the state, he said.
Director of Tourism Kedar Naik said the arrival figures provided insights into changing trends in the tourism sector.
The department was working with airlines, tour operators, travel trade partners and industry stakeholders to strengthen connectivity, improve the state’s visibility as a destination and develop market-specific promotional initiatives, he said.
Goa has also been seeking to expand its international reach through tourism promotions and improved air connectivity, targeting markets in Europe, the United Kingdom, Russia and Central Asia.
The government aims to position Goa as a year-round destination by broadening its tourism offerings and creating economic opportunities for local communities and businesses, officials said.
