A Festival That Celebrates Journeys
Kerala Tourism is set to launch the inaugural edition of Yaanam, a travel and literary festival that promises to blend storytelling, art, and exploration into an unforgettable experience. Scheduled from October 17 to 19, 2025, the event will be hosted at Ranga Kala Kendram at the Cliff, Varkala, one of the most beautiful coastal stretches in southern Kerala.
Conceived by author and curator Sabin Iqbal and programmed by noted travel writer Nirmala Govindarajan, Yaanam 2025 is not just another cultural gathering. It is designed to highlight how travel inspires creativity while also showcasing Varkala’s growing appeal as a global tourism hub. The state’s Tourism Minister, PA Muhammed Riyas, has emphasized that the festival will boost Varkala’s presence on the international map. To support this vision, Kerala Tourism has already launched a twenty five crore project aimed at enhancing tourism infrastructure and activities in the region.
A Star Studded Lineup Of Speakers
Yaanam 2025 will feature some of the most renowned names from literature, journalism, music, and art. Booker Prize winner Shehan Karunatilaka, Grammy Award winning musician Prakash Sontakke, acclaimed journalist Pallavi Aiyar, and Sri Lankan writer Andrew Fidel Fernando will all be part of the festival. Adding a lyrical voice will be poet and playwright Nathalie Handal, often described as the Contemporary Orpheus for her evocative writing on travel and identity.
The lineup also includes Tibetan poet Tenzin Tsundue, journalist and author Sudeep Chakravarti, and photographer Asha Thadani. Adventure travel will find its voice through Piya Bahadur, who will share stories of her all women biking expedition across six countries. Food and culture will be represented by expert Karen Anand, while travel documentarians Priya Ganapathy and Anurag Mallick and vlogger Kritika Goel will bring in fresh perspectives on modern day exploration.
Experiences Beyond The Stage
The festival is not limited to panel discussions and storytelling sessions. Visitors can look forward to immersive workshops on writing, photography, and wellness. Curated trails across Varkala will allow attendees to explore the natural beauty and rich heritage of the region, combining the joy of discovery with the spirit of creativity. Sunset yoga sessions, film screenings, and intimate conversations with artists will make Yaanam an all round cultural and experiential event.
Kerala Tourism’s vision for Yaanam aligns with its broader initiatives such as the Responsible Tourism Conclave and Destination Conclave. Together, these efforts are positioning Varkala as a hub for sustainable and experience driven travel.
Exploring Varkala During Yaanam
Beyond the festival, Varkala itself offers a wealth of experiences. Its famous red stone cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea are a designated geological monument and provide breathtaking views. Papanasam Beach is one of the most popular spots, where visitors enjoy the natural spring believed to have healing properties and relax with seaside dining options.
The Varkala Cliff is a lively destination with cafés, flea markets, and panoramic views. For history lovers, Anjengo Fort offers a glimpse into Kerala’s coastal heritage and colonial past. The region is also known for its Ayurvedic retreats, where visitors can indulge in rejuvenating massages that soothe the mind and body.
For adventure seekers, surfing lessons on Varkala’s beaches are growing in popularity. For those looking for relaxation, a quiet walk along the coastline or a boat ride near the backwaters offers tranquility.
How To Get There
Varkala is easily accessible from Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, which is just 42 kilometres away. The town is also connected by the Varkala Sivagiri railway station and State Highway 64 linking it with National Highway 66. Regular buses and taxis make reaching Varkala convenient from nearby cities.
A Celebration Of Travel And Culture
Yaanam 2025 is not just a festival but a celebration of journeys, voices, and the spirit of exploration. With its world class lineup of speakers and the stunning setting of Varkala, it is set to become a landmark event in India’s cultural calendar. Visitors will leave with stories, memories, and inspiration that go far beyond the sessions they attend.
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