The Goa government recently announced its regenerative tourism initiative centered around 11 places of worship spread across the coastal state. The Tourism Department wants to promote these places of religious importance will help engage local communities and ensure that those living in the hinterland can generate a better income. (Image: Reuters)
In an exclusive conversation with CNBCTV18, Goa’s Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte emphasised that the concept of regenerative tourism will reshape the fundamental approach to travel and tourism of Goa. He added that the regenerative tourism model will be centered on eleven spiritual sites, collectively referred to as Ekadasha Teertha.(Image: Reuters)
By engaging communities, with a particular focus on women and youth, and showcasing their culture, cuisine, and lifestyle, Tourism Goa aims to tap into the commercial and economic potential embedded in their rich history and heritage. The goal of the initiative is to foster a sustainable and enriching tourism experience that goes beyond the conventional paradigms, ensuring a positive impact on both the local communities and tourists. Let’s take a look at the 11 places that Goa will promote to attract more responsible tourists — the places mentioned below are in no particular order. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 1. Shri Shantadurga Kunkallikarin Temple Fatorpa: A revered temple dedicated to Shantadurga, the goddess of peace, located in Fatorpa. (Image: Tourism Goa)
No 2. Saptkoteshwar, Narve, Bicholim: An ancient temple dedicated to Saptkoteshwar, situated in Narve, Bicholim. (Image: Tourism Goa)
No 3. Brahmakarmali, Sattari: A significant religious site, Brahmakarmali in Sattari, holds cultural and spiritual importance. (Image: Brahmakarmali Temple)
No 4. Mahaganapati, Khandola: The Mahaganpati Temple in Khandola is a sacred space dedicated to Lord Ganesha. (Image: Mahaganapat Temple)
No 5. Shree Mangesh temple Mangeshi: The Mangesh Temple in Mangeshi is a beautifully crafted Hindu temple devoted to Lord Manguesh. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 6. Shri Mahalasa Narayani Temple, Mardol: A historic temple in Mardol, the Shri Mahalasa Narayani Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mahalasa. (Image: Shri Mahalasa Narayani Temple)
No 7. Kadamba Shri Mahadeva Temple: Nestled in Tambdi Surla, the Mahadev Temple is a captivating ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. (Image: Shri Mahadeva Temple)
No 8. Damodar Devasthan Zambaulim: A revered place of worship, Damodar Devsthan in Zambauli is dedicated to Lord Damodar. (Image: Damodar Devasthan Zambaulim)
No 9. Parashuram Temple, Poinguinim: The Parshuram Temple in Paigin is dedicated to Lord Parshuram, a revered deity in Hindu mythology. (Image: Shutterstock)
No 10. Hari Mandir Margao: A prominent temple in Margao, Hari Mandir is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the preserver in Hinduism.
No 11. Shree Datta Mandir Sankhli: Sankhli hosts the Shree Datta Mandir, a temple venerating Lord Dattatreya, a trinity deity in Hinduism.