Kerala Tourism Brings A Travel Literary Festival To Varkala—Here’s What’s Planned

If you love misty hill stations and getting lost in a good book, Kerala Tourism’s upcoming literary festival in Varkala next month is the perfect holiday for you. Celebrating the art of travel, the festival will bring together travellers, writers, artists, and filmmakers for inspiring talks, screenings, and conversations—set against the backdrop of Varkala’s serene landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience for book and travel lovers alike.

A Celebration Of Journeys

Kerala Tourism’s upcoming literary festival, ‘Yaanam,’ is designed not just as a travel literary event but as a vibrant platform for passionate travel lovers, including writers, artists, photographers, adventure travellers, and documentary filmmakers. The inaugural festival, taking place from October 17 to 19 at Ranga Kala Kendram at the Cliff, Varkala, aims to bring together diverse voices to share their journeys through talks, film screenings, and conversations.

Conceived by author and curator Sabin Iqbal and programmed by author Nirmala Govindarajan—known for her vivid travel writing—‘Yaanam 2025’ also seeks to showcase Varkala’s immense tourism potential on a global stage. State Tourism Minister PA Muhammed Riyas highlighted the festival’s role in promoting Varkala and nearby destinations by involving notable personalities from various fields.

Noting a significant rise in both domestic and foreign tourists to Varkala post-Covid, Riyas mentioned aN INR 25 crore project aimed at enhancing tourism activities in the region. Also present at the press conference were MLA V Joy and Kerala Tourism Director Sikha Surendran.

Star-Studded Lineup Of Speakers And Storytellers

‘Yaanam 2025’ promises a stellar lineup of speakers from the worlds of literature, music, journalism, and travel, making it a must-attend event for enthusiasts of storytelling and exploration. The festival will feature Booker Prize winner Shehan Karunatilaka, Grammy Award-winning musician Prakash Sontakke, acclaimed journalist and author Pallavi Aiyar, and Gratiaen Award-winning Sri Lankan writer Andrew Fidel Fernando. Adding a poetic dimension is Prof. Nathalie Handal, a celebrated poet, playwright, and literary travel writer often hailed as the ‘Contemporary Orpheus.’

Other notable voices include Tibetan poet Tenzin Tsundue, journalist and author Sudeep Chakravarti, and photographer Asha Thadani. Adventure lovers will enjoy Piya Bahadur’s tales from her all-women biking expedition across six countries, while renowned travel documentarians Priya Ganapathy and Anurag Mallick, food expert Karen Anand, and travel vlogger Kritika Goel complete the impressive roster.

Immersive Experiences And Kerala Tourism’s Vision

Beyond engaging talks and storytelling, ‘Yaanam 2025’ offers curated trails to explore the natural beauty and heritage of Varkala. Attendees can also participate in workshops on writing, photography, and wellness, blending creativity with relaxation.

This festival follows Kerala Tourism’s recent initiatives such as the Destination and MICE Tourism Conclave and the Responsible Tourism (RT) Conclave, reinforcing Varkala’s growing reputation as a vibrant cultural and tourism hub. With its unique blend of art, adventure, and thoughtful engagement, ‘Yaanam 2025’ is set to be a remarkable celebration of travel, storytelling, and discovery.

Things To Do In Varkala

While attending Yaanam 2025, take time to explore Varkala in southern Kerala, where stunning cliffs meet the Arabian Sea. These cliffs are a designated national geological monument and popular geo-heritage site, attracting thousands annually. Visitors love Varkala for its tranquil atmosphere, rich cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and abundant opportunities for adventure.

Explore The Beach

Situated along the coast, Varkala has many beaches you can hang out at. Papanasam Beach is Varkala’s most popular sandy shore, famous for its natural spring believed to have healing properties. Bathing in its holy waters is said to cleanse both body and soul. The beach is lined with small restaurants and snack shops, making it a perfect spot to relax, eat, and soak in the serene atmosphere. You can also take short surfing sessions on the coast.

Check Out Varkala Cliff

A short distance from Varkala Beach lies the striking red stone Varkala Cliff, a major attraction for tourists. It boasts towering rock formations, hillsides, peaceful beaches, hidden ruins, forts, lighthouses, and calm lakes. The area is lively with a local flea market and souvenir shops, offering visitors panoramic views of the beach and coastline, making it a must-visit spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Discover Varkala’s Coastal Heritage

Anjengo Fort marks the first trade settlement of the East India Company in Kerala. According to legend, the Queen of Attingal granted the site, originally a small land with five coconut trees, for trade. Today, the fort stands as a majestic architectural marvel and a top attraction in Varkala. Surrounded by coconut groves along the shore, it’s a charming picnic spot where visitors can relax and watch fishermen at work, soaking in the peaceful coastal atmosphere.

Relax With An Ayurvedic Massage

Ayurveda’s ancient healing offers relief from ailments like rheumatism, respiratory issues, blood pressure, and cholesterol. Kerala, steeped in this tradition, is the best place to experience it. Book a rejuvenating massage at Thanal Ayurveda Home, Ayushi Ayurvedic Retreat, Ayursoul, or Namasthe Ayurveda to soothe both body and mind.

Getting There

The nearest airport to Varkala is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (TRV), approximately 42 kilometres away. The nearest train stop is the Varkala Sivagiri railway station (VAK). Varkala is situated along the Thiruvananthapuram-Kollam coastal highway and is connected by State Highway 64 with the Mumbai-Kanyakumari National Highway 66. State-run buses and private ones operate regular services to Varkala from the major cities and towns of Kerala.

FAQs

What is Yaanam 2025?
Yaanam 2025 is a three-day travel literary festival hosted by Kerala Tourism in Varkala, celebrating the art of travel through talks, screenings, and workshops.

When and where is the festival held?
The festival runs from October 17 to 19 at Ranga Kala Kendram, located on the cliffs of Varkala.

Who are some of the key speakers at Yaanam 2025?
Speakers include Booker Prize winner Shehan Karunatilaka, Grammy-winning musician Prakash Sontakke, and poet Nathalie Handal.

Is there an entry fee for the festival?
Some sessions may be free while others might require registration or tickets; details are provided by the organisers.

What activities are available in Varkala besides the festival?
Visitors can enjoy Varkala Beach, the striking red cliffs, historic Anjengo Fort, and experience traditional Ayurveda treatments.

How can I reach Varkala?
Varkala is accessible via Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, Varkala Sivagiri railway station, and regular bus services from nearby cities.