Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: In a bold move to diversify its tourism offerings, the Goa Tourism Department, led by Minister Rohan Khaunte, is planning to introduce a unique spiritual experience inspired by the renowned Ganga Aarti ceremonies of Uttarakhand’s Haridwar, Rishikesh, and other sacred sites like Prayagraj, Ayodhya, and Varanasi. This initiative aims to take tourists beyond the traditional beach attractions of Goa.
Minister Khaunte announced that Goa has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Uttarakhand to connect Uttarkashi with Dakshin Kashi, a term often used to refer to Varanasi. The plan involves utilizing the picturesque riverbank at Narve in Goa to host Ghat Aarti ceremonies, similar to those seen in these sacred cities. This will provide both tourists and locals with a unique spiritual experience right in Goa.
To further enhance the tourist experience, a Tourism Town Hall is being planned in Porvorim, scheduled for completion by March 2026. This central hub will serve as a gathering point where tourists can obtain comprehensive information about Goa’s attractions. The facility will also offer parking and transportation services, allowing visitors to explore Goa’s hinterlands in dedicated tourism vehicles.
The primary goal of this initiative is to highlight Goa’s untapped scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, which often go unnoticed by tourists who flock to the state’s beaches. Minister Khaunte emphasized the need to showcase the state’s diverse attractions, stating, “Goa has a scenic beauty which has not been utilized, and many tourists do not even know about the hinterlands.”
