Goa recorded 4.63 million tourist arrivals between January and May 2026, according to the latest data released by the state’s Department of Tourism. The destination welcomed 4,639,165 visitors during the period, representing growth of 0.39 per cent compared with the corresponding period in 2025.
The figures indicate continued demand from both domestic and international travellers despite evolving global travel trends and geopolitical uncertainties affecting several source markets. Tourism officials attributed the performance to strong connectivity, diversified tourism products and sustained visitor confidence in the destination.
May 2026 emerged as a particularly strong month, with Goa receiving 969,090 visitors, marking a 4.53 per cent increase over May 2025. Of the total arrivals recorded between January and May, domestic travellers accounted for 4,437,018 visitors, while foreign tourist arrivals stood at 202,147.
The state’s tourism sector continues to benefit from expanding tourism experiences beyond its traditional beach offerings. Cultural tourism, heritage attractions, wellness experiences, spiritual tourism, hinterland exploration, festivals and culinary experiences have increasingly contributed to visitor demand across different regions of Goa.
Commenting on the performance, Rohan A. Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, Goa, said: “Goa’s tourism growth today is being driven by a combination of strong connectivity, diversified experiences and growing visitor confidence. While our beaches remain iconic, travellers are increasingly exploring Goa’s culture, heritage, spirituality, wellness offerings, hinterland experiences, festivals and culinary traditions. This broad-based growth is helping us build a more resilient tourism economy while ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach communities across the State.”
Domestic tourism remains the primary contributor to visitor arrivals, while international traffic is being supported through enhanced air connectivity, charter operations and cruise tourism activity. Goa’s two-airport network, comprising Dabolim Airport and Manohar International Airport, has further strengthened accessibility across key domestic and overseas markets.
Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Goa, said: “The steady growth recorded during the first five months of 2026 demonstrates the strength and adaptability of Goa’s tourism sector. Through focused destination development, improved connectivity and the promotion of varied tourism experiences, Goa is attracting visitors throughout the year and encouraging them to explore different facets of the destination. Our focus remains on enhancing visitor experiences while advancing responsible and sustainable tourism growth.”
Tourism officials said the results position Goa for continued growth during the second half of 2026, with a focus on sustainable development, destination diversification and expanding tourism benefits across local communities.
