Goa, which prides itself as a high-end tourism destination, has not been able to fully capitalise on its treasure trove of heritage sites. It is still being celebrated as a place to go for its beaches, nightlife and entertainment attractions. The State's rich historical and cultural heritage is often undervalued.
In reality, while Goa excels in beach tourism, it has not been able to take advantage of its rich historical heritage to attract a wider range of visitors, who would want to come here for a spiritual, enriching, divine and transformative experience.
The rich heritage of Goa extends beyond its beautiful Portuguese-era churches and cathedrals in Old Goa and the temples in Mangueshi that are more sought after. Many other hidden historical and cultural treasures are waiting to be discovered in the State.
Unfortunately, the tourism department has not yet taken any steps to fully explore and showcase Goa's heritage to visitors, missing out on a valuable opportunity to profit from this sector for the benefit of the State. Goa, known as Parshuram bhumi (land of Parshuram) has much to offer if one sees around.
Unfortunately, the tourism department has not yet taken any steps to fully explore and showcase Goa's heritage to visitors, missing out on a valuable opportunity to profit from this sector for the benefit of the State.
If the State is seriously interested in tapping visitors in this segment, it will have to form a strategy for promoting its present-day attractions and highlighting its rich historical and cultural heritage.
When one talks of heritage, it is not only about old structures, but also involve unique cultural practices evolved from Indian and Portuguese influences. However, the primary focus of Goa's tourism industry has been on its beaches and nightlife and the tourism department will not be able to refute this fact.
There is no problem in promoting beaches and nightlife, but emphasis on these areas has led to the neglect of heritage sites. This neglect has resulted in other potential heritage sites in Goa being underdeveloped, suggesting a deficiency in our tourism strategy or policy.
What we are actually seeing in Goa is uncontrolled tourism that will in the long run have a negative impact on our heritage sites. Also, the rapid development of tourism infrastructure, such as resorts and entertainment venues, and other constructions, will disrupt the delicate balance between development and conservation.
What we are actually seeing in Goa is uncontrolled tourism that will in the long run have a negative impact on our heritage sites.
The loss of traditional architecture and local character, replaced by commercial developments, diminishes the authenticity and charm that attracts visitors in the first place. So, while promoting heritage, the stakeholders have to be wary of these aspects and strike a balance between them.
The tourism industry fuelled by the need for hotels, shopping complexes and entertainment hubs could prove detrimental to Goa's historical structures over time. There is a dire need for finalising the master plan for Old Goa heritage zone to keep illegal constructions from coming up in the area.
The State's unique character is defined by its heritage that also speaks for its shared cultural identity. Goa's heritage is also about its traditions, stories, landmarks, and historical experiences.
Heritage provides a sense of connection, linking individuals to their past and offering a framework for understanding their place in the present. This also means it connects us to our shared history.
Despite the intrinsic value and allure of these historical landmarks, there is a growing sense of disappointment regarding the State's efforts to champion and develop heritage tourism.
As we survey the state of Goa’s heritage sites, its treasures unfold before our eyes. Yet, despite the intrinsic value and allure of these historical landmarks, there is a growing sense of disappointment regarding the State's efforts to champion and develop heritage tourism.
There is no doubt the tourism department on more than one occasion has made its intent clear to promote heritage tourism, but there is no tangible action on the ground. If there is, we don't see it.
There is a noticeable gap in the proactive promotion and support for heritage tourism.
To truly honour and capitalise on the value of these historical assets, it's time to take decisive steps to seriously integrate heritage into tourism strategy, ensuring that these sites are preserved, celebrated, and enjoyed, not only by tourists, but also Goa's future generations.