Goa: Ponda’s Bandora enters Centre’s league of best tourism villages in the country

PANAJI: The Centre has named Bandora, in Ponda taluka, as one of India’s best tourism villages in the ‘spiritual and wellness’ category, the Goa tourism department announced on Saturday.
The Union tourism ministry organises the nationwide ‘best tourism villages competition’ to recognise destinations that preserve cultural and natural assets, promote community-based values and lifestyles, and practise sustainability.
To win, a village must focus on all aspects of sustainability: economic, social, and environmental.
“The selection of Bandora village highlights its potential to attract visitors seeking spiritual and wellness experiences. The village’s unique features and offerings have earned it recognition from central govt’s tourism authorities,” a senior official said. He said the acknowledgement is expected to boost the village’s tourism prospects and contribute to the overall growth of Goa’s tourism industry.
The official said the Bandora panchayat will be felicitated at a Delhi event scheduled on Sep 27, World Tourism Day.
Speaking to TOI, Bandora sarpanch Ramchandra Naik said the accolade will help the villagers showcase Bandora’s spiritual and wellness attributes to a wider audience.
“I am delighted. The award serves as a testament to the villagers’ dedication to spiritual practices, culture, and tradition,” he said.