Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: Booking.com has recognised Goa as one of the 10 Most Welcoming Regions in India as part of its 14th annual Traveller Review Awards 2026, reaffirming the state’s reputation for warm hospitality and memorable guest experiences.
The awards are based on the share of accommodation partners that earned a Traveller Review Award for delivering personal, authentic and consistently high-quality service. This year, Goa has retained its position among India’s most welcoming regions, while Mandrem has emerged as one of the top 10 Most Welcoming Destinations in the country.
Within Goa, the destinations celebrated for their outstanding hospitality include Mandrem, Agonda, Palolem, Arambol and Morjim — beachside locales known for their welcoming hosts and relaxed atmosphere.
The 2026 awards also highlight evolving accommodation preferences among Indian travellers. Hotels remain the most popular choice, with 6,650 award recipients nationwide. Homestays (2,652), apartments (1,984), resorts (1,338) and guest houses (1,218) follow closely, reflecting a growing demand for unique and personalised travel experiences.
Powered by over 370 million verified traveller reviews globally, the awards honour partners who consistently deliver exceptional hospitality. In India, 17,575 travel partners received the 2026 Traveller Review Awards, marking an increase from 15,674 winners in 2025.
Globally, a record-breaking 1.81 million partners were recognised this year — a 5 per cent rise compared to the previous year. This includes 1,817,848 accommodation providers, 1,977 rental car companies and 137 airport transfer suppliers.
The list of 2026’s Most Welcoming Regions in India includes Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Goa, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir and Uttarakhand. Among the Most Welcoming Destinations in India are Bir (Himachal Pradesh), Mararikulam (Kerala), Jaisalmer (Rajasthan), McLeod Ganj (Himachal Pradesh), Mukteswar (Uttarakhand) and Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh).
Spanning beaches, hill stations and heritage towns, this year’s list reflects the diversity of India’s travel experiences, united by a shared spirit of heartfelt hospitality that continues to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
