Goa Tourism is strengthening its presence in the United Kingdom (UK) travel market through its participation in World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026, taking place from November 3 to 5, with a renewed focus on international partnerships, improved air connectivity and the promotion of diverse tourism experiences. The Indian coastal state is seeking to attract more British visitors by expanding its tourism appeal beyond traditional beach holidays and encouraging longer stays, immersive travel experiences and workations.
Through its participation at the global travel trade event, Goa is highlighting its heritage, culture, wellness, cuisine, nature, wildlife and hinterland tourism alongside its well-established coastal attractions. The initiative aims to strengthen Goa’s position as a year-round international destination while building stronger relationships with British travel agents, tour operators, airlines and other industry stakeholders.
Goa Pavilion Inaugurated at WTM London 2026
The Goa Pavilion at WTM London 2026 was inaugurated by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, Government of India, in the presence of Sudha Murty, Member of Parliament; Rohan A. Khaunte, Goa’s Minister for Tourism; Sandip Jacques, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (Tourism), Government of Goa; Shawn Mendes, Officer on Special Duty to the Tourism Minister; and other dignitaries and tourism industry representatives. The pavilion provides a platform for Goa to present its tourism offerings to the international travel trade and strengthen engagement with overseas tourism partners.
Its participation focuses particularly on the UK, which remains one of Goa’s important international source markets due to longstanding travel connections, people-to-people relationships and the presence of the Goan and Indian diaspora. Goa Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte said the state’s participation at WTM London is aimed at strengthening its relationship with the British travel industry, developing closer partnerships and exploring opportunities to improve air connectivity. He also emphasized the importance of encouraging British travellers to explore destinations and experiences beyond Goa’s coastline and consider longer, more immersive holidays.
Four Weekly Direct Charter Flights to Strengthen UK–Goa Connectivity
Improving international air connectivity is a major component of Goa’s tourism promotion strategy at WTM London. The commencement of winter charter operations from Manchester and Gatwick is expected to strengthen direct travel links between the UK and Goa during the winter tourism season.The charter programme, operated through Le Passage to India, part of TUI Group, is expected to operate four direct flights per week, bringing British holidaymakers to Goa. These services are considered an important part of the state’s efforts to maintain its presence in the British travel market and facilitate convenient access for international visitors.
In addition to charter operations, the Government of Goa is working to strengthen its wider aviation ecosystem through engagement with airlines, charter operators and international tour operators. A provision of ₹20 million under the Inbound Tour Operators’ Incentive Scheme 2026 has also been introduced to encourage international charter operations and support connectivity with overseas source markets.Through these measures, Goa aims to sustain existing air services while exploring opportunities for additional international connections. Stronger connectivity is expected to support winter tourism demand and create further opportunities for cooperation between the destination and international travel businesses.
Beyond Beaches: Goa Promotes Heritage, Wellness and Hinterland Tourism
At WTM London 2026, Goa is presenting a diversified tourism portfolio designed to attract travellers interested in more than conventional seaside holidays. The state is showcasing its heritage neighbourhoods, traditional villages, culinary traditions, wellness experiences, nature trails, spiritual circuits, wildlife attractions and cultural events to encourage visitors to discover different aspects of the destination.The promotion of hinterland tourism is particularly significant as Goa seeks to distribute visitor activity beyond its popular coastal locations. Its village landscapes, local traditions, cultural heritage and food experiences offer opportunities for travellers to engage more closely with local communities and experience the state’s cultural identity.
Wellness tourism and nature-based experiences are also being highlighted as part of the state’s efforts to appeal to travellers seeking relaxation, longer holidays and more meaningful travel experiences. By presenting these offerings together, Goa aims to position itself as a destination suitable for different travel interests throughout the year.The state is also promoting workations and extended stays to attract remote professionals looking to combine professional commitments with leisure and lifestyle experiences. Its coastal and village settings, hospitality facilities, wellness offerings and cultural attractions are being presented as advantages for travellers seeking to work remotely while experiencing a distinctive destination.
International Trade Engagement to Expand Goa’s Global Tourism Reach
Goa’s participation at WTM London is being supported by roadshows and business meetings with international travel trade stakeholders, including travel agents, tour operators, destination management companies and other industry partners, particularly across key UK markets.These engagements provide opportunities to strengthen existing partnerships, develop new business connections and explore promotional activities that can generate additional visitor arrivals. The state is also using the global platform to communicate its changing tourism strategy and highlight the range of experiences available to international travellers.
This year’s WTM theme, “Resilience, Rebound & Reinvention: The Next Era of Global Travel,” reflects the changing dynamics of international tourism and the growing importance of diversified destination experiences.Through its participation in WTM London 2026, stronger winter charter connectivity and wider engagement with the British travel industry, Goa Tourism aims to build on its established relationship with the UK market. By combining improved accessibility with heritage, culture, wellness, nature and longer-stay experiences, the state is working to strengthen its position as a diverse and year-round internat
