India’s first-ever Travel Literary Festival, Yaanam 2025
Tales, Trails & Journeys, is set to begin this Friday, October 17th, and run until the 19th, against the stunning, sun-drenched backdrop of the Varkala Cliff in Kerala.
This pioneering festival, masterfully organized by Kerala Tourism, is far more than just a literary gathering;
it’s a dynamic, three-day celebration of the profound connection between travel, storytelling, and culture.
Held at the Ranga Kala Kendram, Yaanam is poised to transform Varkala into a temporary global hub for wanderlust and responsible narrative.
A Stellar Line-up and Global Perspectives
The inaugural edition boasts an impressive roster of speakers, bringing together diverse voices from the worlds of literature, journalism, cinema, and digital media.
The festival will be inaugurated by Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas on October 17th at 3 PM, setting the stage for rich conversations to follow.
Attendees can look forward to hearing from literary giants like Booker Prize winner Shehan Karunatilaka and celebrated Indian writer K.R. Meera.
They will be joined by distinguished guests such as journalist Pallavi Aiyar, festival curator Sabin Iqbal, and popular actor & vlogger Anumol, alongside a vibrant mix of travel writers, documentary filmmakers, artists, chefs, and enthusiasts from India and across the globe.
The central theme, "Celebrating Words and Wanderlust," perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the event.
Diving into Thought-Provoking Themes
The core vision of Yaanam is to go beyond traditional panels. The sessions are strategically themed to address some of the most pressing and creative aspects of modern travel:
Sustainable Tourism: Discussions will focus on responsible practices and preserving the planet's diverse landscapes and cultures.
Inclusive Travel: Exploring how travel can be made accessible and meaningful for everyone.
Creative Journeys: Highlighting the role of travel in inspiring literature, film, art, and music.
More Than Just a Festival—A Movement
Yaanam is designed to be a platform to showcase the state's rich travel experiences and cultural depth, aligning with Kerala Tourism’s innovative campaigns like the Responsible Tourism Conclave. By bringing global creative minds to the Varkala Cliff, Yaanam aims to cement its place on the international travel literature map.
Don’t miss this pioneering event that promises to be a launchpad for new ideas and a sanctuary for storytellers.
For more details on the schedule and registration, check the Kerala Tourism official website.
What aspect of travel—the destination, the journey, or the story—resonates with you the most? Share your thoughts below! 👇
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