The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), India, is creating an ayurvedic wellness retreat at Selaulim in Sanguem Taluka as part of a plan to promote tourism during monsoon, which is currently considered as ‘off-season’ in the national industry.

The proposed project will include the renovation of five villas across 14,000sq m (150,695sq ft), with a total of 40 bedrooms, which will cost Rs20 crores (US$3.3m, €2.4m, £1.9m). The property is located around the periphery of the Selaulim Dam, a place which is not often frequented by tourists, who are more likely to be found at Goa’s beaches and forts.

The government has handed responsibility for the construction and maintenance of the resort to Indian-based Anantara Hotel and Resorts, which will run the facility and pay GTDC an approximate monthly rent of Rs75,000 (US$1,246, €927, £734).

Construction is expected to begin in November and will be completed within 18 months, excluding monsoon time. The resort should be fully functional by October 2015, according to GTDC.

In addition to authentic ayurveda and wellness programmes, the resort will offer adventure sports such as non-motorised boat rides, horse riding and elephant bathing. There will also be two meeting rooms, a banquet hall, large pool and two restaurants.

By focusing on eco-tourism, GTDC are providing tourists with an alternative vacation option in the form of hinterland tourism. Other hinterland properties at natural beauty spots in Goa, including Anjunem Dam and Mayem Lake, are being considered by GTDC for development. Upgrades to properties around Dudhsagar Falls and Tambdi Surla, home to a 12th Century Shaivite temple, are also on the cards.